The Growing Importance of Child-Centric Amenities in Mumbai’s Real Estate

As Mumbai continues to evolve as a city, so too have the needs and desires of its residents - especially those with children. Gone are the days where apartments were marketed solely based on their proximity to the city’s bustling financial district, or the luxury amenities offered within the complex. Nowadays, developers are increasingly catering to the needs of young families by adding child-centric amenities to their projects.

With the influx of nuclear families and single parents working full-time jobs, the need for such amenities in apartment complexes is growing at an unprecedented rate. In response, many real estate developers are adding amenities like toy libraries, indoor and outdoor play areas, designated spaces for kids’ parties, and even child-size swimming pools.

In the past, the lack of these facilities would often dissuade parents from purchasing Apartments in certain complexes. But with the presence of such amenities, developers are reporting higher sales and occupancy rates, indicating a growing market that values the happiness and well-being of its youngest members.

One such developer is the Hiranandani Group, which has recently launched a township in Thane West called Hiranandani Estate. In an interview with Business Today, Niranjan Hiranandani, co-founder and managing director, spoke about the need for the project to cater to not just the needs of adults, but also those of children. He said, “We believe that a child’s needs must be given equal importance as the other members of the family. This is why we offer various amenities that help a child grow up physically, mentally, socially and academically.”

Similarly, the Runwal Group is another developer that has invested in creating child-friendly environments for its residents. Its project in Mulund, Runwal Bliss, boasts of amenities like a 30,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a jogging track, and, notably, a ‘kids’ zone’ with a dedicated rock-climbing wall, trampoline, and even a mini-theatre for film screenings.

But it’s not just the higher-end of the market that is investing in such amenities. The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has announced a new policy that mandates the inclusion of designated areas for children in its upcoming housing projects. The policy states that at least 3% of the total project area must be set aside as a “kids’ corner”, complete with swings, slides, and other age-appropriate play equipment.

The real estate sector in Mumbai is no longer just about location and luxury; it has evolved to cater to the specific requirements of modern-day families, with a focus on creating environments that foster holistic development for children. With the city’s rapid urbanisation and population growth, it is encouraging to see developers acknowledging the need to create safe, supportive, and enjoyable spaces for young children.

As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how the real estate market and the needs of families continue to evolve in tandem. One thing is for certain - the inclusion of child-friendly amenities is no longer a luxury but an essential element in the decision-making process for homebuyers with young children.