Realty Blogs

Transforming CSR into real, measurable impact with SI Sustainability Initiatives (SI) is a Pune-based NGO founded 14 years ago by professionals united by a passion for sustainable development, with the goal of driving positive change in urban spaces. As we commemorate 14 years of promoting sustainable urban living, we intend to keep working together and moving forward to promote sustainability everywhere. Our objectives are in line with the Sustainable Development Goals in order to make a comprehensive contribution to every facet of sustainability. For decisions, policies, and actions to be genuinely sustainable and comprehensive, cooperation is essential. “We focus on localizing the Sustainable Development Goals to suit Indian cities, aiming to create sustainable urban environments.” SI as your CSR Partner How can SI help shape your CSR vision? SI is a perfect CSR partner in the area of environmental sustainability because of its robust legal structure, expert pool, and strong domain knowledge. Our knowledge guarantees that environmental projects not only have an effect but also adhere to legal requirements, resulting in significant, long-lasting change. SI has a strong portfolio that includes a variety of projects, showcasing its broad knowledge and proficiency. SI has a strong organizational foundation that enables it to carry out projects of any size with efficiency and impact. CSR Impact Continuing TATA Group’s legacy of societal progress, Tata AutoComp Systems Limited, through its CSR initiatives, partnered with Sustainability Initiatives (SI) to implement the Green Schools project. The project was successfully executed in four schools- ZP schools from the Chakan area—Koye, Chandus, Askhed, and Dawadmala. SI promoted environment friendly techniques like eco-literacy, wet waste composting, and rainwater collection. These programs encourage eco-friendly living and provide students the tools they need to develop eco-friendly behaviors for a future that is climate resilient. SI and VK:e Environmental partnered with CapitaLand Hope Foundation for their Green Month initiative at Jilha Parishad Primary School, Bhoirwadi, Pune, on 30th June 2023. Aligned with Environmental Day 2023, the event aimed to raise awareness on global warming, climate change, and resource conservation. Through interactive sessions in Marathi, team members explained key environmental concepts, encouraged tree planting, waste segregation, and energy saving. Students participated in a drawing competition and a ‘Waste to Best’ activity, turning discarded items into creative products. A tree plantation drive, supported by faculty and students, capped off the day. The organisations continue to support the schools as part of their mission to uplift underprivileged children through education and sustainability—and SI makes it possible. With SI as your CSR partner, your environmental sustainability efforts will be structured, effective, and impactful. Let’s collaborate to drive positive change! Amol Umbarje +91 8956410999 aumbarje@sustainability-initiatives.org   Shilpa Bhalerao +91 98231 51002 sbhalerao@sustainability-initiatives.org

Shaniwar Wada Echoes of History in the Pulse of a Growing City Shaniwar Wada, a well-known 18th-century fortification in the heart of Pune, has quietly watched the city change over the years. It was commissioned by Peshwa Bajirao I in 1730 and finished in 1732. Combining Maratha, Mughal, and Persian architectural elements, it was the center of Peshwa authority and a striking example of Maratha architectural creativity and, at one point, its imposing walls and grand gateways echoed with the vitality of an empire.Originally planned as a grand seven-story stone palace, the plan was modified as it was opposed by none other than Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, who feared that its defensive might could be counter-productive in the event of its capture. In its place came a sprawling five-acre complex that had a stone foundation with bricks forming the middle stories, and teak-wood being used extensively in the upper levels. In its prime, the Wada featured the formidable “Delhi Darwaza” with its plainly obvious elephant-deterring spikes, besides four other distinct gates, and impressive fortifications that were later added by Nanasaheb Peshwa. Within the compound, the famous Hazari Karanje or a “thousand-spout fountain”, enchanted visitors with its mesmerizing display of water flows. The palace complex boasted ornate gardens like Chimanbaug, ceremonial halls adorned with mirrors and ivory, specialised courtyards, murals by Rajasthani artists, and intricate teak woodwork, and could easily accommodate over a thousand people daily.Destiny seemed to have other plans though. A devastating and unexplained fire in 1828 consumed the wooden upper stories, forever altering the Wada’s destiny. What remains are the massive stone walls, the footprints of grand halls, and majestic gateways, ruins that indicate a once-flourishing centre of the Maratha Empire. A single event transitioned Shaniwar Wada from a symbol of power to a relic of heritage.Despite the original devastation and the change brought by time, part of which is the immense change the city has witnessed, Shanivar Wada remains a potent symbol and a pillar of Pune’s collective memory. Once the Peshwas’ opulent residence, it now serves as a silent yet moving reminder of Maratha architecture and its once political might. The imposing “Delhi Darwaza”, the main gate, still seems to greet visitors as they approach it. Stories of royal processions, courtly rites, and busy daily life are etched in every inch of the fort’s quiet courtyards and the bare remnants of once-ornate buildings. It takes more than a lay sense of recreation to mentally recreate the original architectural splendor, much of which has been destroyed by fire and the passage of time.Cut to the present: the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been instrumental in conserving the site, undertaking careful preservation work such as mural restorations, which by itself provides fragmented yet valuable glimpses into the visual and artistic culture of 18th-century Pune. That said, Shaniwar Wada continues to grapple with the challenges of modern urban life— air pollution, noise, infrastructural encroachment, and declining public engagement. These factors raise urgent questions about the site’s ongoing cultural relevance and the responsibilities of heritage conservation in contemporary Indian cities.The juxtaposition of historical ruins with modern sprawl prompts critical reflection on how we can integrate heritage within contemporary urban life without diminishing its value. Shaniwar Wada’s story is a vital case study. Sensitively managed heritage can foster civic pride, offer cultural continuity, and inform sustainable urban practices. Its weathered stones stand as enduring reminders of the delicate balance between preserving memory and building the future. Ar. Shreya Shirsath MirpagarEnviro Architect / AcademicianSMEF’s Brick School of Architectureshreyamirpagar@brick.edu.in

India Warehousing Outlook – Q1 CY 2025 Resilient Growth in Warehousing: Demand Outpaces Supply in Q1 CY 2025 India’s warehousing sector, particularly Grade A and A+ assets, continues its robust performance in Q1 CY 2025. The Pan-India demand touched 10.1 million sq. ft (msf), surpassing the supply of 9.0 msf. This marks a clear shift toward high-quality logistics infrastructure, driven by the rise in consumption and supply chain modernization. Vacancy rates for Grade A/A+ stock declined to 7.0%, a 120 basis points YoY drop, indicating tightening availability across key warehousing hubs. The absorption-to-supply ratio stood strong at 1.1x, showing that demand is outpacing new supply additions. Regional Leaders: MMR and Pune Dominate the Market The Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and Pune together accounted for 61% of Pan India demand and 59% of total supply. Pune, in particular, saw high absorption with a demand-to-supply ratio of 1.7x and vacancy of just 3.8%. MMR remained vibrant with major transactions from Zomato Hyperpure and DHL, although vacancy increased slightly to 8.5%. Other major contributors: Delhi-NCR: 0.8 msf demand, with strong rent growth of 4% in last 12 months Bengaluru: Demand surged by 69% QoQ, vacancy at 11.8% Chennai: Maintained balance with 1.4 msf demand and 4.8% vacancy Hyderabad: Modest demand of 0.2 msf but improving vacancy at 9.6% Sectoral Trends and Rental Insights The warehousing demand was largely driven by 3PL (Third-Party Logistics), Manufacturing, and Automotive sectors. The 3PL sector alone contributed 34% of the demand. E-commerce and electronics also showed growing interest in cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad. On a national level, Grade A/A+ passing rents rose 4% YoY, with sharp upticks noted in NCR and MMR. Q1 CY 2025 underscores India’s growing appetite for high-quality warehousing. With vacancy rates dropping and rents inching up, the market reflects increasing tenant preference for Grade A/A+ facilities. Regions like Pune and MMR remain frontrunners, while cities like Bengaluru and Chennai are showing strong growth potential. The sector is poised for continued expansion, driven by demand from logistics, e-commerce, and manufacturing players.   Abhishek Kiran Gupta CEO, CRE Matrix abhishekkirangupta@crematrix.com

Shaping Tomorrow’s Commercial Spaces – The Archmaze Way Welcome to Archmaze Associates, a leading architecture firm dedicated to crafting innovative, functional, and sustainable commercial spaces. Our expertise lies in designing buildings that not only reflect our clients’ brand identity but also enhance occupant experience and productivity. As a Commercial Architect, we strongly believe that the architecture serves the needs of its occupants while also contributing to the vitality of the surrounding community.” Key Elements 1. Innovative Design: We push the boundaries of commercial architecture, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices. 2. Client-Centric Approach: Our team collaborates closely with clients to understand their unique needs, goals, and brand vision. 3. Sustainable Solutions: We prioritize eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and green building practices. 4. Functional Spaces: Our designs optimize workflow, circulation, and occupant experience. 5. Aesthetic Excellence: We craft visually striking buildings that enhance the urban landscape. Expertise Office buildings Retail spaces Hospitality design Mixed-use developments Why Choose Us? Collaborative approach ensures client satisfaction Expertise in sustainable design and innovative technologies Commitment to delivering high-quality, functional, and aesthetically pleasing spaces Designing spaces that support business operations and workflows. Incorporating eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and green building practices. Ar. Sahil J Khinvasara Founder, & Principal Architect at Archmaze Associates +91 9021588829 archmaze09@gmail.com

Expands Into Travel With Strategic Hospitality Partnerships Discount Feast, the exclusive membership platform known for offering unmatched savings on dining experiences, has now made a bold entry into the travel and hospitality segment. Through a series of strategic tie-ups, the platform has onboarded 100+ new merchants, significantly expanding its value proposition for members. A major milestone in this journey is the partnership with Spicy Mango, a premium resort management and consultancy firm. Spicy Mango is renowned for delivering tailor-made hospitality solutions through the development of villas and resorts, leveraging the expertise of its team of architects and hospitality professionals. This collaboration brings access to 32+ villas and 12+ resorts across sought-after destinations like Alibaug, Nagaon, Aakshi, Revdanda, Kashid, Karjat, Mulshi, Lonavala, and Dapoli. Members of Discount Feast can now enjoy exclusive discounts at all of these properties — including La La Land in Goa, one of Spicy Mango’s most celebrated resorts. Further enhancing its travel offerings, Discount Feast has also partnered with Prathamesh Group of Resorts and Adventure Parks, enabling members to avail discounts on one-day outings and overnight stays at their scenic properties in Sinhagadh Paytha, Khed Shivapur, and Mahabaleshwar. In another exciting move, the platform has collaborated with Dushyant Bhatia, founder of Eating Cultures, an experiential workshop initiative known for unique food and liquor pairing sessions. This partnership aims to launch an annual experiential calendar at Foresta Resort, Paud – the largest upcoming luxury destination in Mulshi. Foresta Resort is a premium venue featuring 105+ rooms, including suite accommodations and Swiss Chalets. It is also set to become a landmark wedding and event destination with banquets and lawns that can host up to 1000 guests. Adding to its appeal is an immersive wellness retreat by Camios Hospitality, featuring nature walks, yoga, pottery, and night treks, designed to promote well-being and foster deep interpersonal connections. These strategic collaborations mark Discount Feast’s significant foray into the travel and experiences space. By building this strong hospitality ecosystem, the platform is laying the foundation for its new Travel vertical, making luxury and leisure more accessible to its members. What sets Discount Feast apart is its no-expiry, no-fine-print voucher model, offering 10% to 50% discounts on a wide range of experiences including restaurants, cafes, bars, resorts, adventure parks, and now, experiential workshops. With these game-changing partnerships, Discount Feast continues to redefine value and convenience for modern consumers. Mihir Dudhat Founder, Discount Feast +91 9011858344 hello@discountfeast.co.in