Pod Brooklyn

Created in 2017, Pod Brooklyn’s modern steel, glass, and wood facade stands in contrast to its neighboring tenement buildings -- a sign of the times in eclectic, evolving Williamsburg. The lobby is industrial, sleek, and minimalist -- blending linear wood and steel with bold primary color splashes, cube-like steel stools, and Pod’s big blue logo. Bellboys are on hand to assist with luggage and taxis, and there’s a concierge desk set up in the center of the lobby. A windowed ceiling illuminates the space, and a giant Jenga in the corner adds a playful touch. Stairs lead to a work and lounge-friendly mezzanine level overlooking the lobby and the street.

Rooms are divided into four blocks -- A, B, C, and D -- each with its own color theme -- red, blue, teal, or lime green. They unfold over three levels accessed by stairs and elevators, with several large minimalist garden areas located in between blocks. This way, rooms can overlook gardens and get plenty of natural light. Pod’s very reasonable rates attract a broad range of young guests -- and while all rooms have en-suites, the overall vibe and look resembles that of an upmarket hostel meets college campus.

Pod Brooklyn is located in Williamsburg -- one of Brooklyn’s most popular and trendiest neighborhoods. Williamsburg is home to endless restaurants, bars, cafes, and boutiques, many of which line Bedford Avenue -- just one block, or a two-minute walk from the hotel. The nearest subway stations are the L at the Bedford Ave subway stop (a four-minute walk away) or the G at Metropolitan Ave (nine minutes on foot). Both trains travel to Manhattan, or deeper into Brooklyn. Manhattan attractions will require a train or cab ride. The trip to lower Manhattan takes about 10 to 15 minutes, while Midtown takes around 25 minutes, and it’s a little longer to reach Times Square, at around 30 minutes. Offering a running track, a seasonal outdoor pool, and tennis courts, McCarren Park is an 11-minute walk away. JFK International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport are around 45 to 60 minutes away by car, while LaGuardia Airport can be reached in around 20 to 30 minutes.

Modular rooms are modern by design, with an industrial accent warmed up by color-coordinated hues of either red, blue, teal, or lime green -- depending on which block they reside in. While compact, smart design and savvy features provide plenty of practicality, and category options include Queen, Bunk, and ADA. If IKEA built hotels, the rooms would probably look something like these. Tech features include Bluetooth clock radios, individual climate control, cordless telephones (with free local calls), multi-device charging outlets, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.

Storage-wise, there are under bed safe drawers, small open hanging closets, and retractable coat hooks mounted on walls. Microwaves and mini-fridges are available on request. Full-width windows with sliding louvered blinds enable guests to control light and maximize views of the common garden areas. Toilets and wet room-style rain showers share small glass cubicles with no soundproofing, and while functional, showering may feel a bit weird to some. Vanities, hairdryers, and Pod-branded toiletries are located right outside cubicles, separated from beds by glass panels and opaque curtains that can be drawn for privacy.

Some guests are pleasantly surprised by the tiny yet functional layouts, while others -- more so couples than singles -- can feel a little claustrophobic. Either way, rooms are best-suited to those planning on being out and about versus room-bound.

Limited services are wrapped up in the Pod concept in order to keep prices low. That said, Pod Brooklyn offers a number of perks, including free, weekly walking tours in various Manhattan and Brooklyn locations, and free loaner bikes. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the hotel, and there’s a mezzanine loft area above the lobby with communal, plug-friendly tables and lounges.

Clinton Hall is the hotel's street-level restaurant, open for all three main meals, as well as for brunch and happy hour. The menu includes a wide array of great burgers, plus classic bar fare such as wings, quesadillas, parmesan truffle fries, and over 20 varieties of craft beer. The Pod lacks a gym, but it offers rooftop yoga and fitness classes from time to time, weather permitting.

A daily facility fee is charged on top of the room rate, covering Wi-Fi, local calls, luggage storage on check-in and checkout day, walking tours, and printing services. On-site parking is available for a fee.