Pune's affluent homebuyers now define luxury by wellness, smart features and open space: study

A study by Godrej Properties Ltd (GPL), one of the country's large real estate developers, has found that a home is no longer just a property. According to the study, it is now a private refuge that reflects the wishes of its occupant, looks after their health and brings together nature, technology and contemporary design.

In October, GPL released the Pune edition of The Elevated Living Edit. It is part of a city-by-city study that looks at the aspirations, lifestyle choices and housing priorities of affluent homebuyers, and shows how the meaning of luxury housing is changing.

The study says that as Pune advances as a smart city, discerning buyers want thoughtfully designed homes that offer comfort, convenience, a sense of exclusivity and room for personal choice.

On wellness, about 74% of respondents consider wellness amenities essential. Some 78% want a dedicated space for yoga and meditation, while 72% prefer a green setting. This points to a growing preference for gardens, wellness terraces and open spaces that are good for body and mind.

Outdoor spaces are increasingly becoming part of the home itself. About 76% like a large balcony where they can sit comfortably and socialise. About 66% want a private garden and 65% want rooftop amenities, reflecting a growing wish to be close to nature.

Buyers are also looking for residential communities that offer much more than a comfortable home. About 68% value a vibrant community environment, 67% give priority to lifestyle amenities and 70% want convenient, well-planned parking.

The focus on healthy living shows in everyday design as well. While 74% consider wellness amenities important, 71% prefer open space for physical activity such as exercise and 67% want recreation zones for sport. Spaces for cycling, walking, exercise and leisure are becoming an essential part of today's homes.

Technology is also making homes smarter and easier to live in. About 60% want smart-home features, 57% value the integration of advanced technology and 54% want home automation solutions covering lighting, security and climate control.

Sustainable living is moving from an added extra to a basic expectation. About 64% prioritise sustainable features in their home and 54% expect electric vehicle charging. For 50%, sustainability is itself the new measure of luxury.

The desire for larger homes reflects changing needs. About 38% prefer four-bedroom homes and 43% are interested in a villa or bungalow. About 31% say a home of 2,100 to 3,000 sq ft defines spacious living, while 22% want even more space.

The kitchen is no longer only a place to cook but is becoming a space for socialising and hosting. About 41% prefer an island kitchen, 38% want an open kitchen layout and 23% choose a separate dry kitchen.

Privacy and easy access are also becoming marks of premium homes. A private lift is a priority for 64%, and 43% of them are willing to pay extra for it. Another 58% want to customise their home to suit their taste and lifestyle.

The same wish for a home of one's own making shows in the growing interest in bare-shell and under-construction properties. About 34% prefer these options because they allow the home to be designed to personal taste and need.

Pune is drawing buyers as an investment market as well as a place to live. About 79% of respondents said they are ready to invest in the city again, while 40% plan to buy a home mainly as an investment.

Simplicity in design is gaining ground. People are moving towards clutter-free, functional and thoughtfully designed interiors. About 74% like modern minimalist design and 58% want to be able to alter their home to suit their lifestyle.

The findings of The Elevated Living Edit show that the definition of luxury in Pune's residential market is changing. Beyond older markers of exclusivity, today's premium homes are identified by wellness, sustainability, intelligent technology, open space and personal choice. The emerging aspiration is for an environment that balances comfort, belonging and health, and can adapt to the needs of tomorrow.