Shifting Preferences: The Rise of Low-Rise Living
Homebuyer preferences are undergoing a transformation, marked by a growing inclination towards low-rise properties and a departure from the towering high-rises that dominate urban skylines. The appeal of low-rise living lies in its emphasis on community and personalized experiences, facilitated by the smaller scale of these developments. This trend provides a refreshing alternative to the often congested and impersonal urban environment and exhibits staying power.
From High-Rise to Low-Rise: A Change in Perspective
High-rise projects have long been the dominant urban building typology. However, recent years have witnessed a rapid shift, with low-rise developments emerging as the preferred choice. After the COVID-19 pandemic, an increased focus on spacious homes, relaxed lifestyles, and a strong sense of community led to a resurgence in low-rise housing projects. Developers have been quick to capitalize on this growing trend. While amenities remain attractive to buyers, they are increasingly prioritizing privacy and a nurturing environment for their families, both of which are hallmarks of low-rise living.
Decoding the Allure of Low-Rise Projects
According to the Indian Building Code, low-rise housing is technically defined as buildings up to 15 meters tall, encompassing ground plus four floors (G+4). In contrast to high-rise complexes, low-rise buildings accommodate fewer residents and comprise fewer towers. This contributes to a more intimate and community-centric living experience. Often featuring generous living spaces, private entrances, and occasionally personal outdoor areas like patios or gardens.
Low-rise projects are typically smaller-scale ventures undertaken by local or homegrown developers. The shift in homebuyer preferences towards these types of construction, demonstrates current dynamics where quality and renown alone don't dictate decision making. Rather, the sense of community, exclusive atmosphere, and accessible amenities offered by low-rise projects are driving their increasing popularity.
One example in the Delhi NCR region is the Nitara Group, with a notable portfolio of golf course adjacent low-rise projects situated along the Golf Course Extension Road. The developer offers a range of builder floor projects in 3 BHK, 4 BHK, and 5 BHK configurations, including sizes ranging from 342 square yards to 1200 square yards. These simplex, duplex, and triplex configurations further cater to the diverse needs of homebuyers.
A prominent project by Nitara Homes, Nitara Projects Anantraj, is located in Sector 63A of Gurgaon. This development offers 4 BHK apartments with a carpet area of 1950 square feet. The four-story building houses four units per floor, with prices starting at Rs 3.25 crore.
The Growing Popularity of Low-Rise Housing
While high-rise buildings often symbolize urban dwelling, low-rise luxury real estate is gaining traction among buyers in Gurgaon. This shift is due to a combination of factors relating to security, value retention, and cost efficiency.
Security and Safety: Enhanced security and safety are paramount in low-rise housing. Gated communities are not affected by structural damage during natural disasters like earthquakes. As low-rise housing are restricted to four stories it virtually eliminates issues regarding elevator maintenance and accessibility. Stringent entry and exit security checks are also easier to implement in low-rise developments due to their smaller populations. The Nitara Group reinforces this commitment to safety in all projects by incorporating seismic zone IV-compliant structures and incorporating multi-layered security systems.
Greater Resale Value: Low-rise buildings often command higher resale values compared to their high-rise counterparts. The privacy and exclusivity afforded by low-rise living add to the desirability of these properties in the resale market. Their well maintained, and practical features increase value-retention over time.
Reduced Maintenance Expenses: Another advantage of low-rise housing is the lower maintenance costs arising from increased energy efficiency. In contrast to high-rises, which can experience temperature extremes requiring intensive maintenance, air conditioning, and high electricity usage, low-rise buildings naturally promote moderate temperatures and reduce energy consumption. Furthermore, general maintenance is easier to manage in smaller buildings with fewer floors.
Natural Views and Low-Density Housing: Low-rise developments offer a welcome contrast to the high-density living associated with high-rise structures. With more space and fewer neighbors, low-rise housing cultivates a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere, particularly appealing to those seeking a quieter, less congested environment. They also offer greater access to nature than high-rise constructions. This advantage, along with growing concerns about urban chaos, pollution levels, and health risks, factors into a growing desire for eco-friendly properties.
Spacious Living: Low-rise projects also boast larger room sizes compared to high-rise developments. For instance, Nitara homes feature rooms measuring 13'3 x 10'6 and 11'6 x 13'6, complemented by wide balconies and spacious lobby areas. These generously sized living spaces contribute to a more comfortable living experience.
Community Living in Gated Societies: Low-rise housing developments like Nitara Homes often promote a vibrant sense of community. Shared common areas and resources foster social interaction and a tight-knit atmosphere.
Personalization Options: Adaptability is another advantage of low-rise homes. Homebuyers can add personal touches such as gardens or outdoor spaces, creating homes that reflect their individual habits and preferences.
Reduced Strain on Infrastructure: The smaller population of low-rise communities places less strain on shared amenities and infrastructure, compared to high rises. This reduces issues of traffic congestion and pressure on public resources.
In conclusion, several contributing factors influence the rise of low-rise housing. Features associated with low rise housing like security, spaciousness, community-oriented living, lower maintenance expenses, greater potential for value retention, and increased customization, appeal to those seeking a distinctive and individually catered lifestyle.