Architectural Insights and Real Estate Trends: July’s Design Digest
Design Enthusiasts! We’re back to wrap up another month with you. Normally, we’d share what’s buzzing around the studio like in May’s newsletter we shared our commercial design in civic center and a farmhouse design in gulberg greens, Islamabad and in June we also published article about 20 mosques that one should visit in Pakistan, but this time, instead of repeating the usual, we thought we’d tackle a few pressing issues regarding Pakistan and real estate.
July and August are peak monsoon months in Pakistan, and this year is no exception with ongoing flood warnings. Who’s to blame for this recurring disaster? Unfortunately, our infrastructure is at fault. Our urban drainage systems fall short, leading to flooded streets and homes across the city.
So, how do we address this, you ask? As members of the architectural—or should we say, “thinking”—community, we craft solutions and take action! A prime example is the remarkable work Yasmin Lari has been doing, especially in indigenous regions. In 2022, her NGO launched a targeted program to rebuild and empower communities to protect themselves from future disasters. She’s designing shelters that draw inspiration from indigenous techniques, using locally sourced materials re-engineered to withstand floodwaters.
Future-ready parking plaza
Furthermore, we have one of our own on-going projects in Bagh, Azad Kashmir. This innovative parking plaza is a model of adaptive architecture. Built on challenging multi-level terrain, the plaza is designed not only as a functional parking facility but also as a versatile space poised for future transformation into a dynamic office complex. Its design incorporates dedicated spaces for executive parking and larger vehicles, seamlessly integrating into the environment while ensuring efficient circulation and aesthetic appeal.
What sets this plaza apart is its forward-thinking design that allows for easy conversion into office spaces. The central double-height area, along with multilevel entrances and strategically placed ramps, ensures future adaptability while maintaining commercial viability. Serving both local infrastructure and international business needs, the plaza is a testament to architectural ingenuity, ready to evolve with Bagh’s urban landscape.
Expected Real Estate Trends in the Capital
In the coming year, Islamabad’s real estate market is poised to continue its upward trajectory, driven by a surge in mixed-use developments and the rising popularity of gated communities. These projects cater to the diverse needs of homebuyers and investors by offering integrated lifestyles where residential, commercial, and recreational spaces coexist. With amenities like shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment centers within the same complex, these developments provide a convenient and modern living experience.
The demand for residential properties, particularly luxurious apartments and spacious villas, is expected to remain strong as more expatriates, professionals, and families are drawn to Islamabad’s serene environment and robust infrastructure. Additionally, the commercial sector is expanding, attracting multinational corporations and boosting the demand for office spaces, retail outlets, and warehouses. This growth is fueled by urbanization and an increasing population, leading to a higher demand for affordable housing options, such as apartments and smaller units.
Design trends in Islamabad’s real estate market are also evolving, with a focus on innovative and sustainable architectural practices. Developers are increasingly incorporating smart home technologies, energy-efficient appliances, and sustainable materials into their projects. The emphasis on contemporary architecture and minimalist design reflects a shift towards functionality and aesthetics, with features like open floor plans, glass exteriors, and flat roofs becoming more common.
Despite rising construction costs due to inflation and supply chain disruptions, property prices in Islamabad are expected to continue their upward trend, with an annual growth rate of 7-10% anticipated. This makes the city an attractive investment destination for both local and international investors. As the real estate market in Islamabad evolves, it will offer diverse opportunities for growth, driven by a blend of demand for luxury living, innovative design, and sustainable development practices.
And that wraps up July! We hope we’ve sparked some inspiration and shared a bit of wisdom with you!