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In the heart of India's rapidly urbanizing landscape, a quiet revolution is underway. What was once the domain of the ultra-wealthy homes designed with health and harmony at their core is now infiltrating everyday residential projects. This shift isn't just about adding a gym or a green patch; it's a holistic rethinking of how buildings can nurture physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
As city dwellers grapple with pollution, long commutes, and high-stress jobs, the demand for spaces that prioritize wellness has skyrocketed. According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), India's wellness real estate sector has ballooned to $13 billion in 2024, more than doubling from $6 billion in 2019. This impressive 20.3% annual growth rate positions India among the top 10 global players in this arena, signalling a profound change in consumer expectations.
The catalysts for this boom are multifaceted. The COVID-19 pandemic served as a wake-up call, forcing millions to spend extended periods indoors and highlighting the flaws in conventional housing. Suddenly, homes weren't just shelters; they became sanctuaries for work, exercise, and relaxation. Coupled with rising disposable incomes especially among millennials and non-resident Indians (NRIs), buyers are now willing to invest in properties that promise long-term health benefits. Urban stress, from traffic snarls to air quality issues, has amplified the appeal of residences that incorporate elements like enhanced ventilation, natural lighting, and biophilic designs that bring nature indoors. Developers have responded swiftly, embedding these features into projects across major cities like Gurugram, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
Take, for instance, the insights from industry leaders. Anuj Puri, Chairman of ANAROCK Group, emphasizes how wellness has become a key differentiator in real estate. "Wellness features enhance a building's desirability by improving the environment and promoting well-being," he notes.
Popular amenities include state-of-the-art gyms, dedicated yoga and meditation spaces, rooftop gardens, and even art studios or Zen gardens in upscale developments. What started in luxury segments has trickled down to mid-range homes, where buyers now expect these perks as standard. Puri adds that while architectural flair might catch the eye, it's the wellness aspects that deliver true premium value, making properties more appealing in a competitive market
Beyond basic amenities, sustainability is weaving itself into the fabric of wellness homes. Developers are moving past mere certifications like the WELL Building Standard or Fitwel ratings, which assess health impacts, to create immersive environments. Low-VOC (volatile organic compound) materials reduce indoor pollutants, air purification systems ensure cleaner breathing spaces, and community zones foster social connections. Jogging tracks, sports courts, and recreation areas cater to all age groups, encouraging active lifestyles. Aman Trehan, Executive Director of Trehan Iris, highlights Gurugram's role as a pioneer. "Wellness real estate commands a 10-30% premium, reflecting the demand for health-focused living," he says. His firm is set to launch wellness-centric residences in the area, viewing them as investments in a sustainable future. Trehan projects India's wellness spending to exceed Rs 1 lakh crore by 2028, up from Rs 60,000-80,000 crore today, underscoring the sector's potential.
Ishaan Singh, Director at AIPL, echoes this sentiment, pointing out how these homes integrate natural elements to create "experiential" living. "Families see the premium as an investment in health, reduced long-term costs, and appreciating property values," he explains. Millennials and NRIs lead the charge, drawn to tech-savvy features like smart air quality monitors and communal wellness programs. However, interest is broadening, with middle-class families also prioritizing these aspects amid growing awareness of mental health and preventive care.
But is the extra cost worth it? Wellness homes typically carry a 10-30% mark-up over standard luxury properties, attributed to the expenses of design, materials, and maintenance. Experts argue yes, citing benefits like improved quality of life and higher resale values. In office buildings, similar features boost employee productivity and retention; in residences, they elevate happiness and family bonds. Yet, Puri cautions that this trend won't soon reach affordable housing due to cost constraints. Developers must balance affordability, so while peripheral city projects might include basic wellness touches like open green spaces, they avoid lavish add-ons. Still, as incomes rise, even budget segments could see gradual integration.
The buyer profile for wellness homes is diverse but skewed toward those who can afford the premium. These aren't entry-level purchasers; they are health-oriented individuals willing to forgo central locations for cleaner, greener suburbs. They seek certifications that validate wellness claims, ensuring their investment pays off in longevity and balance. ANAROCK's H1 2025 consumer survey reveals telling trends: 36% of prospective buyers favour the Rs 90 lakh to Rs 1.5 crore range, a clear tilt toward premium options. Moreover, 63% view real estate as the top investment, up 4% from last year. Luxury housing, often bundled with wellness by default, has dominated sales post-pandemic, sustaining demand even as economic pressures mount.
Looking ahead, wellness living is poised to become the norm in India's residential real estate. As the premium buyer base expands, driven by economic growth and urbanization, developers will innovate further. Puri predicts that while affordable housing may get a boost eventually, luxury and mid-premium segments with wellness features will thrive.
This evolution reflects a broader societal shift: homes are no longer mere assets but extensions of personal health strategies. In a nation where urban populations are projected to swell, wellness homes offer a blueprint for sustainable, fulfilling living. By blending health, nature, and community, they are not just redefining urban spaces, they are building a healthier India, one residence at a time.
