Hotel 81 Osaka is located within Tiong Bahru Estate, which was built in 1930s and is one of the oldest housing estates in Singapore.

The estates consist most of low rise buildings (about 3 storeys tall as it was designed without mechanical lifts) and is a good reflection of architectural designs (for mass housing) in the 1930s.  

The area has a colourful past in its earlier years, but that had lesser significance as population increased in the post war era. In recent years, Tiong Bahru with its unique architectural, low rise apartments with higher ceilings, wider open spaces in between buildings and proximity to the city centre has been rejuvenated into an attractive enclave favoured by young affluent middle class residents attracted to its ambience and heritage.

Tiong Bahru is a almost like a calm oasis in the midst of a busy city, a sharp and distinct contrast from areas just across the street.