CXOToday has engaged in an exclusive interview with Mr. Hira Ludhani, Director at Evershine Group
1) How can real estate projects typically improve energy efficiency and minimise resource usage?
When we consider energy efficiency, it’s not merely about holistic methodologies or integrating technologies, it’s more about a larger perspective on how we envision urban habitats for the future. One of the primary ways we can enhance energy efficiency is by maximising the use of solar energy. This means incorporating solar panels for electricity generation & also designing structures to capture passive solar heat, reducing the need for artificial heating.
Installing energy-efficient appliances, such as LED lighting and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems with higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings, can substantially reduce energy consumption.
The essence lies in understanding the balance between architectural innovation and nature. Allowing more natural light into buildings enhances human well-being and propels energy conservation. Implementing bioclimatic designs, for instance, considers the climate to determine the building’s orientation, ensuring maximum sunlight during winters and cool shade in summers.
Embracing designs with cross-ventilation concepts, perhaps by using operable windows or ventilation stacks, can improve airflow and reduce reliance on artificial cooling.
At Evershine Group, our commitment to a sustainable future drives every decision. Recognising the vital role of green spaces play in ensuring energy efficiency, our projects, including Amavi 303, seamlessly incorporate these areas. Not just enhancing aesthetics, these green expanses contribute significantly to energy efficiency. They serve as natural temperature regulators, ultimately resulting in energy conservation. These spaces also provide a quiet escape in the bustling urban settings. Beyond these immediate advantages, there’s a broader perspective. In regions like India, where waterlogging is a perennial challenge, these green zones provide a solution, absorbing rainwater and mitigating floods while replenishing groundwater.
2) In your view, how does the inclusion of green spaces and landscaping give a competitive edge to real estate projects?
Today as we see, competition is everywhere, and the real estate sector is no exception to this trend. Hence, differentiating oneself and staying ahead of the curve is more crucial than ever. Over time, I’ve seen a clear move towards adding more green areas in real estate, which is a great shift! It’s not purely just for looks and aesthetic anymore, it’s more about making our development projects better for everyone and especially the environment.
Today, people genuinely value green spaces in their residential areas. The Covid-19 pandemic made us all realise something important. Being stuck inside our homes made many of us wish we had more green spaces nearby. Today, more people are looking for homes that offer these green spaces. Properties with gardens, parks, or even open green landscapes have become more appealing. They’re not only attractive but also make people feel relaxed and increase their mental wellness. These elements can enhance your project’s appeal, encouraging residents to stay for the long term.
We have made a conscious effort at Evershine Group to create dedicated areas like yoga deck, jogging tracks, kids play area with plenty of greenery. It’s about making spaces where people can breathe, relax, exercise and moreover connect with nature.
3) How is real estate sector striving to achieve net-zero sustainability goals?
The ambition to achieve net-zero is a clarion call for a sustainable future. Its actually exciting to see the real estate sector, stepping up to the challenge with vigour.
India’s vision to embrace net-zero by 2050 is both commendable and challenging. Currently, one element which is actively being embraced is green construction and this is pivotal in the net zero journey. It’s nothing but just substituting conventional construction materials with eco-friendly alternatives like bamboo or sustainable concrete. It’s about reimagining the entire lifecycle of a building, from design to demolition, ensuring both longevity and minimal environmental impact.
Customer preferences are continuously evolving today. We have observed the increasing emphasis by the government on eco-friendly initiatives, especially with the push towards electric vehicles (EVs). In alignment with these forward-thinking trends, at Amavi, we have proactively incorporated EV charging stations to cater to the needs of the modern resident. In our endeavours at Evershine Group, we don’t see sustainability as a mere trend but as an imperative. Solar power integration, efficient waste and water management systems are few features we ensure to embed in all our projects.
These are some of the avenues we’re exploring. Besides these steps, we focus on open spaces and green zones because we truly believe in the well-being of our residents and the planet.
The journey towards net-zero in the real estate sector is an ongoing one. As we move ahead, continuous innovation and collective commitment will ensure we meet our sustainability goals while uplifting the quality of urban living.
4) How do you ensure that your sustainable projects also positively impact the local community, both socially and economically?
Sustainability, to me, is more than just eco-friendly construction or green spaces. It’s about holistically improving the lives of the people who are part of and around our projects. If we approach it with the right intent, sustainability can become a catalyst for fostering community growth, both socially and economically.
Sustainability enhances not just our surroundings but the very fabric of our communities. By integrating sustainable practices, we’re aiming for better health, increased awareness, and even giving a boost to the local economy. This is not just about buildings; it’s about building relationships, trust, and a sense of belonging.
In today’s fast-paced world, the sense of community sometimes gets lost, but we, at Evershine, prioritise it. For instance, our township project, Amavi 303, isn’t just about providing homes; it’s about creating spaces where people connect, engage, and thrive together.
I’m proud to see many in our industry also recognising and acting upon this interconnectedness. It’s vital that as developers, we don’t just put up structures, but lay the foundation for vibrant, thriving communities.
5) Are there any emerging technologies that you are particularly excited about which promise to make buildings more sustainable in India?
We’re living in a time when technology is weaving itself into almost every facet of our lives and real estate in India isn’t being left behind. With the digital wave that’s rolling in, it’s an exciting time for all of us in the industry.
Technology integration is being embraced rapidly and the 2 technologies that have genuinely piqued my interest are Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain.
From interactive virtual tours to pinpointing property values, AI is opening up possibilities we hadn’t even dreamed of a few years ago. The scope is vast, and I believe we’ve only scratched the surface of AI’s potential.
Then there’s Blockchain. Beyond just the buzz of cryptocurrencies, it’s proving to be a game-changer in the real estate sector in streamlining payments and ensuring transparency. Considering how digital payments are gaining traction in India, this just feels like the next logical step. Blockchain is adding another layer of security in payments, addressing the core concerns of many buyers.
In a nutshell, the horizon looks promising with technology in the driver’s seat. I can’t help but be optimistic about where we’re headed.
6) How can we design residential projects that both enhance environmental efficiency and foster community building?
Recognising the rise in eco-consciousness, the real estate sector is advancing their practices to ensure this factor is at the forefront of their efforts. Additionally, there is a lot of preference for a space where people can get together and engage. The pandemic can be considered as a catalyst for this demand. At the Evershine Group too, we hold a strong belief in fostering community while keeping our structures eco friendly. After all, a home isn’t just about four walls, it’s about the bonds we form with our neighbours and the sense of belonging we feel.
While human connections are undoubtedly organic, the design and layout of a residential space can significantly influence how these interactions unfold. Amavi 303, located in busy Virar, is designed to give residents a peaceful place to connect. Features like our yoga deck offer residents shared spaces where bonds can form over mutual interests. Club One, our exclusive clubhouse, is more than just a facility; it’s a hub of shared experiences, from board games to dining. Moreover, we also have religious and recreational spaces like the Siddhivinayak temple and Yazoo Park. These spaces not only serve individual needs but also present opportunities for community engagement and celebration.
When we design a residential space where everything from schools to entertainment is just at an arm’s distance, it naturally encourages energy efficiency. Think about it, with everything close by, there’s less need for utilising cars, bikes or even public transport. This results in fewer emissions, better indoor air quality, and a smaller carbon footprint. Besides, a good design can maximise natural lighting and ensure a consistent thermal temperature. Hence, without even realising it, residents are making eco-friendly choices just by living in such a well-planned community.
Relationships stem from personal interactions, but the spaces we create can act as a supporting factor to community building. It’s crucial today that modern residential projects provide open and inviting communal areas, acting as nurturing grounds for these essential human connections.
7) In light of the current industry focus on luxury housing, what strategies do you believe can be integrated to align luxury, sustainable living with affordability?
Luxury housing has always caught the imagination of homebuyers. But today, especially among millennials and the new-age buyer, there’s a nuanced understanding of what luxury means. It’s no longer just about opulence. It’s about deriving value, having eco-conscious elements, and yes, affordability. Sounds paradoxical, doesn’t it? But that’s the evolving definition of luxury housing in today’s age.
Young homeowners today are meticulous. They want their homes to be reflections of their aspirations and values. They look for a space that is comfortable, has modern amenities, and yet, doesn’t weigh heavily on their pockets or the environment. Their demand? A home that spells luxury, is priced reasonably, and holds hands with sustainability.
Our approach at projects like Amavi reflects this blend. We’ve tried to bring the best of both worlds by offering top-tier amenities and designs that align with this new trend of ‘affordable luxury.’ But affordability and luxury are just part of the equation. The real challenge lies in embedding sustainability into the mix.
Our strategy is two-fold. First, we employ sustainable construction methods like prefabricated and modular techniques. They’re not only cost-effective but ensure a fine finish that aligns with luxury aspirations. Secondly, we embrace indigenous materials and designs. They’re tailored for our climate, which means they last longer and, over time, are more cost-effective, aligning with the affordability factor.
Moreover, there’s the growing appeal of ‘shared luxury’. By offering communal spaces – be it lush gardens, EV charging bays, or shared amenities, we ensure that our residents enjoy luxury facets without the heavy price tag.
The Indian real estate market is undergoing a transformation, where luxury, affordability, and sustainability aren’t just trendsetters but are seamlessly integrated into our project.
