Gulberg Residencia is part of the Gulberg Islamabad project, developed under the Intelligence Bureau Employees Cooperative Housing Society (IBECHS). Unlike Gulberg Greens, which is known for its farmhouses and eco-luxury vibe, Residencia focuses on residential plots like 7 Marla, 10 Marla, 1 Kanal and 2 Kanals. Families choose Gulberg Residencia because it combines the serenity of Gulberg with the practicality of compact living.
For architects, designing a 10 Marla house in Gulberg Residencia means striking a balance between modern comfort and efficient space planning. At Primarc Studio, we view Residencia homes as opportunities to bring the greenery and openness of Gulberg into smaller, well-organized residences.
To see how Gulberg Residencia compares with other neighborhoods, read 10 Marla House Design in Pakistan – An Architect’s Guide.
Understanding the Character of 10 Marla Houses in Gulberg Residencia
Gulberg Residencia shares the DNA of Gulberg Greens – wide boulevards, planned sectors, and landscaped surroundings. However, because it is denser, houses here must make smart use of space while still feeling open.
Residents often want elegant facades, family-friendly layouts, and connections to greenery. Many families moving from Rawalpindi and central Islamabad see Residencia as a step-up in lifestyle. Expats are also drawn to it because of Gulberg’s overall reputation for quality and long-term value.
Architect’s Note: Designing in Gulberg Residencia is about creating openness within compactness. Every wall, window, and courtyard must work to enhance light, air, and flow.
Single vs Double Story Designs – Living Within Smart Spaces
Double story houses are the most common in Gulberg Residencia, as families want to maximize their 10 Marla footprint. Typical layouts include:
- Ground floor → drawing room, bedroom, lounge, kitchen.
- Upper floor → 3 bedrooms, kitchenette, terrace.
Single story builds are less common but are chosen by retirees or for rental purposes. In one case, we designed a single story 10 Marla with a lounge opening into a lawn and 3 compact bedrooms. The family valued manageability over expansion.
For a deeper comparison of layouts, see Single Story 10 Marla House Design – Comfort and Elegance in Simplicity and Double Story 10 Marla House Design – Spacious Living for Growing Families.
Facades – Elegant, Balanced, and Contemporary
Gulberg Residencia encourages variety in facades. Spanish-inspired elevations remain visible, but modern and hybrid facades dominate because they are easier to maintain and feel more in sync with the society’s contemporary identity.
We designed a modern elevation for a professional couple in Residencia that used textured plaster, wooden louvers, and neutral grey tones. The couple later told us: “It feels like a home you’d see in Dubai or Europe — but still rooted here.”
Architect’s Note: In Residencia, restraint works better than extravagance. Clean lines and natural materials stand out more than unnecessary ornamentation.
For more visual ideas, explore 10 Marla House Design Front Elevation – Spanish, Modern & Contemporary Styles.
Floor Plans – Maximizing Flow and Functionality
Because plots in Residencia are compact compared to Gulberg Greens, families want efficient zoning:
- Drawing rooms placed near entrances for guest privacy.
- Lounges centrally located as family hubs.
- Kitchens often designed semi-open, with dirty kitchens tucked behind.
- Bedrooms arranged to maximize privacy and cross-ventilation.
In one project, we designed a double lounge layout: a formal lounge near the entrance and a private family lounge deeper into the house. The family said this zoning allowed them to host guests while keeping family life uninterrupted.
To learn more about space planning, read 10 Marla House Maps & Floor Plans – Designing Flow, Not Just Walls.
Lawns and Courtyards – Green Breathing Spaces
10 Marla plots in Residencia offer modest lawns, but residents still prioritize them as social and family spaces. Some sacrifice an extra room to enlarge the lawn, while others prefer to add interior courtyards or terraces.
We once designed a sunken courtyard beside a lounge in Residencia. It brought in daylight and ventilation while creating a private green pocket — perfect for families who valued privacy but still wanted outdoor connection.
For ideas on indoor-outdoor connections, see 10 Marla House Design with Lawn – Blending Indoor and Outdoor Living.
Construction Cost of a 10 Marla House in Gulberg Residencia (2025 Update)
Construction costs in Residencia mirror those of Islamabad’s mid-premium societies:
- Grey structure: Rs. 6 – 6.8 million (2025).
- Finishing: Rs. 6.5 – 9 million.
- Total: Rs. 13 – 16 million mid-range; Rs. 17 – 20+ million for high-end finishes.
Families here often lean toward modern finishes: imported tiles, modular kitchens, and minimalist wardrobes.
For national cost comparisons, read Cost of Building a 10 Marla House in Pakistan – From Grey Structure to Finishing.
Case Study – Compact Yet Open Design
One family in Gulberg Residencia approached us with a request: “We want a compact house that still feels open.” We designed a double story 10 Marla with a central double height lounge, a semi-open kitchen, and sliding glass doors to the rear space. The upper lounge opened onto a private and cozy sitting space.
The family later said: “Even though it’s a smaller plot, it feels spacious. Every space connects naturally.”
Architect’s Note: A well-designed 10 Marla house in Residencia can feel larger than its footprint when openness and light are prioritized.
Expats and Gulberg Residencia
For overseas Pakistanis, Gulberg Residencia is an attractive option because it is more affordable than DHA or Park View City but still carries the Gulberg reputation. Many expats design houses here for rental income or as retirement homes.
In one UK-based client’s project, we designed a double story with a semi-independent upper floor. The family rented it out while abroad but kept the option of living there when they return. With online meetings and 3D visualizations, they stayed fully involved in design decisions.
If you’re starting a design remotely, begin with our Residential Design Questionnaire to align your goals and budget early.
Conclusion – Smart, Graceful Living in Gulberg Residencia
A 10 Marla house in Gulberg Residencia Islamabad is about smart living: making the most of compact plots while preserving the openness and greenery that define Gulberg. Families want houses that feel modern, elegant, and practical, while expats appreciate its affordability and reputation.
At Primarc Studio, our Residencia projects focus on maximizing flow and comfort. Whether single or double story, Spanish or modern, the goal is always to design homes that feel spacious, natural, and family-centered.
Architect’s Note: In Residencia, design is not about size — it’s about creating openness and elegance within limits.
Primarc Studio Architects
The Primarc Studio editorial team consists of architects and designers specializing in modern residential projects, interior designs and commercial designs across Pakistan. Together, we share insights on design trends, construction costs, and project case studies.
