AHMEDABAD: The residential landscape in Ahmedabad is undergoing a significant transformation. A decade ago, the city was dominated by compact 1-BHK apartments catering to the middle-class population. However, in the post-Covid era, there is a noticeable shift in homebuyer preferences, with a rising demand for more spacious living arrangements. This change is reflected in the data from the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation’s (AMC) 2022-23 report, which indicates a surge in residential projects featuring 2, 3, and 4 BHK apartments.
The Covid-19 pandemic has fundamentally altered lifestyles, with work-from-home (WFH) arrangements becoming the norm for many. This has created a need for dedicated workspaces within homes, driving the demand for larger apartments. A senior AMC official noted, “With WFH becoming more common, the need for dedicated workspaces within apartments has grown.” Additionally, the prospect of extended family members living under one roof has further propelled the demand for more spacious accommodations.
Between the financial years of 2015-16 and 2022-23, approximately 1.40 lakh rooms were constructed under various schemes, illustrating the rapid expansion of residential infrastructure in the city. The shift towards larger apartments is not just a trend but a reflection of changing socio-economic dynamics and lifestyle preferences among the middle class.
The preference for larger homes is also attributed to the desire for better quality of life and enhanced living conditions. The pandemic underscored the importance of having adequate living space, both for functional purposes and mental well-being. As a result, developers are increasingly focusing on projects that offer larger units with additional amenities to cater to this evolving demand.
This trend signifies a broader shift in the real estate market, where the emphasis is moving from budget-friendly compact homes to more spacious, well-planned apartments that offer ‘room to breathe’. The middle-class homebuyers in Ahmedabad are prioritising comfort and quality over mere affordability, leading to a rethinking of apartment living in the city.
As the city continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that the demand for larger living spaces will persist, influencing future residential development projects. This shift highlights the changing aspirations and needs of Amdavadis, who are now seeking homes that provide not just shelter, but a better quality of life.