All About Real Estate Investment:How To Invest in Real Estate; Real Estate Investing Techniques

Four Features Women Buyers Want When Buying a House

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Wed, 03 Apr 2019 11:53:00 +0000

With a worldwide increase in the number of women homeowners, it is not surprising that architects, designers, and investors around the world are realizing that they are an important demographic worth catering to. That is why things to look when buying a house checklist features that attract women are now beginning to be constructed, albeit at a slow rate. Their presence can increase the resale value of the property such as an apartment or a house by 7- to 18%.

Following are four main features which women buyers want when buying a property:

1. Safety. This is a major concern for women, especially if they live alone, therefore, safety features such as CCTV cameras and security alarm systems attract women buyers when buying a property. Other safety-related elements such as anti-skid floors and fire-alarm systems with sprinklers are also in demand.

2. Space. Homes which appear to be airy are believed to attract women buyers when buying a property. This can be achieved via open layout plans, large glass windows, skylights and walls made with glass bricks which can be used to separate spaces within a home.

3. Storage. Ample storage space is something most women covert. These can be implemented in the form of niches under staircases, wall-to-ceiling cabinets, and purpose-built storage rooms.

4. Well designed kitchens and bathrooms. When it comes to the kitchen, in addition to ample storage space (in the form of pull-out and revolving shelves, drawer organizers and walk-in pantries) women favor island stoves and center-aisle working counters. Separate grease kitchens are also worth considering. Similarly, bathrooms should be aesthetically pleasing.

Other features that attract women buyers when buying a property include basements, powder rooms, purpose-built office/study areas, patios, roof gardens, and utility rooms.

Five Reasons How Smart Home Features Increase Property Value

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Wed, 03 Apr 2019 11:35:00 +0000

A smart home is one with automatic electric, plumbing or security systems. Although the initial cost of these may seem high, they can help reduce your utility bills by 12 to 15%. Furthermore, home automation can increase home value by 15 to 20%.

Here are five smart home features that increase home value.

1. Garden sprinkler systems. A smart sprinkler can be programmed via a device that adjusts the amount of water that is used for your garden according to the weather conditions. It ensures your garden stays well-watered and the water is not wasted.

Price: $ 2,437 for ¼ acre residential lawn.

2. Lighting. Smart lighting dimmer and sensor systems allow lights to be turned on and off via a smartphone and can be customized to perform certain actions, such as turning off automatically when no one is around by using motion sensors. They can be used outside your home as well and can help increase security.

Price: $ 40 to $ 60 per bulb.

3. Locks. A smart lock receives signals from an authorized device which instructs it to lock or unlock an entrance. Third part users can be granted entry via a ‘virtual key’ which can be sent to them through e-mail or SMS during a specified time.

Price: $ 229 to $ 278 per smart lock home kit.

4. Smoke detectors. When smoke is detected, these gadgets set off an alarm; some of them are equipped with automatic sprinkler systems to douse fires. What makes smoke detectors smart is that they can send a notification to your device(s) when it detects smoke no matter where you are.

Price: $ 30 to $ 80

5. Thermostats. These are synchronized with your air-conditioners or central air-conditioning systems to control the interior temperature of your home. They come with WiFi connectivity (which allows you to adjust temperatures via your device) as well as sensors to maintain the desired temperature. You can also schedule the times you want you air-conditioning to start or stop.

Price: $ 150 to $ 200.

Four Outdoor Features to Increase Home Value

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Wed, 03 Apr 2019 11:14:00 +0000

According to experts, introducing outdoor features and elements to your home can increase the home value by 8- 10%. Most of these enhancements are one-time investments which can yield a return on investment (ROI) ranging between 18 to 20%.

Here are four proven ways to increase home value and these are best home improvements to increase value:

1. Entrances. Main gates should be sturdy and secure yet inviting; wooden gates or those made with wrought iron are trending, especially if flanked by contemporary lighting fixtures can increase home value (such as those made of chrome or silver). Their presence can increase home value by 12 to 18%.

Price: $ 1200 to $ 1800

2. Landscaping. Houses with large lawns should be landscaped with flowers and foliage (opt for plants that do not require much water). Lighting options include spotlights, lanterns, and fairy lights to give your lawn added appeal. Furthermore, you can introduce features such as stone planters, pebbled corners and walkways, and sunken Zen garden niches. Doing so will increase home value by at least 10%.

Average landscaping cost: $ 10 - $ 15 per square foot.

3. Hardscaping. This refers to features such as decks, gazebos, and patios, which can serve as entertainment spaces all year round. Their presence can increase home value by 15 to 20%.

Prices: Decks and gazebos: $ 12 to $ 15 per square foot.; Patios: $ 15 to $ 18 per square foot.

4. Backyard sanctuaries. If you have a backyard, you can install a small shed to provide storage space. Features such as a pond, water fountain or a fire pit surrounded by garden chairs are worth considering; they work well as spaces to relax or entertain. Their presence can increase home value by 12 to 14%.

Prices: Pond: $ 8 to $ 10 per square yard, shed: $ 1.5 to $ 2 per square foot; water fountain: $ 800 to $ 1000.

Lucrative Commercial Property Investment Options In Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 07:57:00 +0000

In the last three years, the demand for commercial property for rent is tremendously increasing (specifically restaurants, retail spaces, and warehouses). Rental commercial property rates have gone up by 20 to 25% and prices have been increased by nearly 30%. Despite this, demand for these rental spaces has increased by nearly 20%, making them lucrative commercial property investment options.

If you are planning to invest in a commercial property such as restaurant, retail space or warehouse, factor in the following:

1. Restaurants. The number of restaurants in Pakistan has increased by an estimated 30 to 38% in the last two years. Custom-made spaces for restaurants are in high demand and their return on investment (ROI) ranges between 25 and 35% per year.

Areas where restaurant space is available include:

Islamabad: Sector F-10.
Karachi: Tipu Sultan Road and Block 4, Clifton.
Lahore: M.M. Alam Road

Average sizes range between 400 – 1,200 sq feet.

Purchase Price Range: $ 300,000 to 450,000

Monthly Rental Range: $ 5 - $ 12.7 per square feet

2. Commercial Retail Space. These include commercial shops and commercial stores within malls and shopping centers. Their number has increased by 18 to 20% in the last two years and their ROI ranges between 22 and 25% per year. Retail commercial space does not require a lot of investment and is relatively easy to rent.

Areas where commercial retail space is available include:

Islamabad: Sector F-10. Giga Mall, Aquatic Mall, and Gulberg Greens.

Karachi: Clifton and Defence Housing Authority.

Lahore: Block Y, DHA, Gulberg and M.M. Alam Road

Average sizes range between 500 – 1,000 sq feet.

Purchase Price Range: $ 230,000 to 650,000

Monthly Rental Range: $ 2 - $ 15 per square feet

3. Commercial Warehouses. Due to increasing industrialization, the demand for warehouses has increased by 12 to 15% in the last two years. Initial investment and maintenance costs are lower compared to other commercial spaces; this makes them a popular choice for investors. Their ROI ranges between 15 and 20% per year.

Areas where commercial warehouse space is available include:

Islamabad: Sector I-9 and I-10.

Karachi: Hub and West Wharf

Lahore: Multan Road

Average sizes range between 500 – 3,000 sq yards.

Purchase Price Range: $ 1,500,000 to 3,650,000

Monthly Rental Range: $ 6 - $ 27 per square yard.

A Valentine Gateway: Low-cost Accommodation Options to Celebrate with your Valentine

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 08:25:00 +0000

As a result of increasing tourism in northern Pakistan, the number of low-cost accommodation options for travelers, such as apartments, cottages, and villas (as opposed to regular hotels which are more expensive), is increasing significantly. Surrounded by majestic mountains, the return on investment of these options ranges between 15 to 18% per year; their resale value increases by approximately 22% every three years.

If you are considering traveling to the following destinations with your valentine or even later this year, or investing in property there, factor in the following:

· Bhurban. Located between Kashmir Road and Murree Road, Bhurban is a picturesque town that is a 45-mnute drive from Islamabad. Attractions include Ayubia National Park, an expansive golf course and hiking trails. Apartments are increasingly available for short-term rentals; facilities include swimming pools and complimentary WiFi.

Rental range (per night) – Apartments: $ 70 to $ 100

Purchasing price range – Apartments (450 – 800 sq ft): $ 120,000 to $ 180,000

· Pir Sohawa. Located 17 kilometers from Islamabad, Pir Sohawa overlooks Daman-e-Koh Park, a popular vantage point 3,600 feet above sea level. Options include apartments, cottages, and villas. In addition to fine-dining restaurants, they provide facilities such as gyms, spas and swimming pools as well as corporate lounges and conference rooms for business travel. Activities include high-rope courses as well as hiking and walking trails.

Rental range (per night) – Apartments: $ 20 to 50; cottages: $ 30 to 60; Villas: $ 70t o 90.

Purchase Price Range – Apartments: (1,300 to 1,500 sq ft) $ 50,000 to 70,000; cottages: (300 to 500 sq yds) $ 150,000 to 180,000; villas (800 to 1,000 sq yds) $ 270,000 to 300,000

· Skardu. Located at an altitude of 7,500 feet, Skardy is enchantingly beautiful; it is a one-hour flight from Islamabad. There are several accommodation options there, the majority of which overlook the majestic Kachura Lake. These include luxurious suites in resorts and cottages; facilities include swimming pools, spas, and fine-dining restaurants.

Rental range (per night) – Cottage: $ 30 to 50; Suite: $ 70 to 100

Purchase price range – Cottages (250 to 350 sq yards) $ 170,000 to 220,000; Suite: (500 to 800 sq yards) $ 280,000 – 570,000

Give Your Kitchen an Uplift: Five Kitchen Decorating Ideas on a Budget

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Jan 2019 10:35:00 +0000

Are you thinking about decorating your kitchen? Although there may be myriad reasons why you would want to do so, remember that renovating your kitchen by having it re-designed and equipping it with modern kitchen decoration accessories can increase the value of your home by 8 – 10%. Here are few kitchen décor ideas in a budget:

Countertops – The most popular material for countertops is granite. Although they are available in light and dark colors, black and maroon are the trendiest kitchen designs. Granite has high durability (it is heat and stain resistant and does not absorb liquids) and is easy to maintain and aesthetically pleasing. Price: $ 5 to $ 12 per square feet.

Cabinets – No matter what kind of cabinets you have, just a coat of paint can transform them. Kitchen décor designers recommend that cabinets be painted in two different shades; popular combinations include mint green-and-maroon, grey-and-pink and black-and-white.

Price: $ 10 to $ 15 per square feet.

Tiles – Kitchen renovation materials worth considering are sandstone and rubber because they are durable and easy to maintain. Sandstone tiles will give your kitchen an ‘earthy look’ and are available in shades of red and brown. Rubber tiles are a little more expensive but more contemporary looking.

Price Sandstone: $ 18 to 20 per square feet.

Price Rubber: $ 25 to $ 35 per square feet.

Walk-in Pantries – Floor-to-ceiling pantries are not only best in simple kitchen designs but also ideal for storing kitchen appliances and large pots and pans. Their width ranges between five to six feet and they are usually seven to eight feet deep.

Price: $ 350 to $ $ 450.

Other kitchen décor themes you should consider: Island Kitchen theme ($350), Skylight Kitchen theme ($ 150) and stainless-steel backsplashes ($ 10 per square feet).

Living Coral in Hotels – Pantone’s Color of 2019

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Sun, 06 Jan 2019 09:06:00 +0000

Colors not only serve aesthetic purposes, but they are also known to have varying effects on how you think, act or react. In fact, certain colors are believed to have the ability to soothe or irritate, and even affect your blood pressure and appetite.

In Carlstadt, New Jersey lies the headquarters of Pantone LLC who take the business of color very seriously. Every season, they release the Fashion Color Trend Report which highlights the season’s top colors and they are consequently spotted on runways, interiors, and buildings.

On December 6, 2018, a vibrant and lively hue coined ‘Living Coral’ was named the 20^th Pantone Color of the year. It has been described by Pantone as a color of ‘carefree happiness’. Laurie Pressman, VP, Pantone Color Institute, expressed that this shade “Symbolizes our innate need for optimism and joyful pursuit”.

Pantone and Tribute Portfolio (Marriot International’s new chain of independent hotels) have partnered to create a pop-up pantry that allows people to experience an immersive tribute to Living Coral at selected hotels. In collaboration with different artists and influencers such as Diplo and Sia, they will introduce interactive Pantone Pantries starting in Art Basel in Miami, and then move on to Savannah, Georgia and then the Netherlands this year. Each pantry will reflect the ‘spirit’ of each city to take guests on a journey of the character, color, and design that will showcase the uses of this trending color.

Pantone is also working with Material ConneXion and Adobe Stock (Software that designers use) in order to bring living Coral to creatives and designers; it Is expected that the color will be seen in homes in the form of statement walls, mirrors, and homeware, the exterior of buildings and will thus shape architectural and interior design trends.

The name of ‘Living Coral’ has been inspired by a ‘feeling of sunsets and the marine invertebrate; it is linked with the natural world of coral, a beautiful living organism that is facing extinction due to increasingly warmer oceans. Not only does this hade evoke a sense of punchy optimism, but it also serves as a reminder of the state of our environment.

Pakistan’s Real Estate Market Trends in 2018

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Sun, 30 Dec 2018 10:13:00 +0000

The year 2018 was not an especially lucrative one for the real estate sector, primarily due to the economic downturn, as a result of which Pakistan real estate market transaction decreased significantly.

Here are a few trends that emerged in 2018:

Residential Real Estate Investment Trends

The prices of houses increased by up to 10%; rentals remained the same when compared to 2017.
The prices of, and demand for, plots increased by 5 to 15%, particularly in Punjab real estate, where the sales of one-acre plots increased by 8-10%.
Apartment related real estate market decreased by 10 to 15%; their prices decreased by 12 to 18%.
The demand for affordable property within gated communities increased by up to 20% and their availability went up by 10%.
Investments in plots and house on the outskirts of metropolitan cities within gated communities increased by 15 to 20%.
Foreign real estate investments made by overseas Pakistanis decreased by 10 to 12%.
Areas that attracted most investment include DHA (Bahawalpur), DHA (Islamabad), Bahria Town (Karachi) and Phases VI and IX, DHA (Lahore).

Residential Real Estate Investment Trends

Property prices increased by up to 10%; rentals remained the same.
Foreign real estate investment in Pakistan market increased by 20%
The demand for multi-purpose commercial buildings (which consist of retail and office space) increased by 10 to 15%.
Investment in property along the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) increased by 5 to 10%.
Popular real estate investment destinations included areas on the outskirts of cities such as Gwadar, Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. Key commercial areas that attracted investment included Jinnah Supper (Islamabad), Clifton and Shahrah-e-Faisal (Karachi) and Gulberg (Lahore).

Other Real Estate Investment Trends Include:

The demand for, and value of, agricultural land increased by 10 to 15%
Construction costs increased by 15 to 18%.

Low Cost House Plans with Estimate in Hilly Areas

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Sun, 16 Dec 2018 08:43:00 +0000

The trend of establishing low-cost house designs and floor plans within hilly terrains is gaining traction, where property prices are increasing, and a significant proportion of the population is unable to afford housing. These houses, which resemble caves, are considered to be earthquake proof and are not affected by landslides. According to a report by (General Growth Properties, 2018) the demand for, and value of, these houses are increasing by 15 to 30% every year, and they are also used as storage space as well.

Here is an in-depth look for cheap house building ideas:

· To construct a ‘cave home’, space within a hillside must be purchased; its price is 25 to 40% lower compared to the cost of regular plots.
· These houses are spread over at least 400 square feet and usually consist of two large rooms; kitchens, restrooms and living areas (usual verandahs) are located outside.
· Another low-cost house construction technique is to build plastered walls with clay instead of regular paint, and floors are paved with concrete. These are easy to maintain and relatively inexpensive.
· These houses usually do not have windows; however, entrances are at least seven to eight feet high in order to allow a substantial amount of sunlight to enter.
· Due to their location, these houses stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter, which makes them eco-friendly.
· Indoor plumbing is usually not available; however, electricity is.
· The estimate of the low-cost house plan is in between $ 35,000 and $ 40,000, and this makes these houses affordable for a significant number of people in hilly areas. An increasing number of people are purchasing them and placing them on rent; monthly rentals range between $ 1,350 and $ 1,800.

How to increase home value for appraisal by using four building material

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Sun, 09 Dec 2018 09:41:00 +0000

Over the last five to ten years, an increasing number of houses are being constructed with eco-friendly blocks instead of those made with regular concrete. Not only are they durable, but they can also withstand the impact of climate change. Furthermore, their presence can increase home value for appraisal significantly.

What makes property value increase:

Here are four building materials to consider when constructing a house:

1. Insulated concrete blocks are made from polystyrene or polyurethane foam and then filled with concrete. Introduced in Europe in the 1960s, these blocks are easy to stack, lightweight (they weigh 40% less than regular concrete blocks) and provide thermal protection. Houses in which these blocks are used are 15 to 25% cooler during the summer and warmer during winters. Their presence can be the best home improvements to increase value by 10 to 15%.

2. Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) is a building material that contains air pockets within the concrete and this makes it 30 to 40% lighter than regular concrete. Available in the form of blocks and slabs, it provides thermal and sound insulation and is fire-resistance. Its presence can increase a home value for appraisal by 25 to 30%.

3. Straw bales have been sued for centuries to thatch roofs and building walls. This renewable material is usually covered with cement to make sturdy building blocks that are resistant to fire and decay. Straw bale walls can also be used in houses to create positions. Their presence is what home improvements add the most value by 10 to 12%.

4. Green blocks are made of concrete and covered with a plant-based slide. Mostly used on the facades of houses; they are durable, eco-friendly and low maintenance in terms of their cost. They are also effective insulators and keep homes cool during summer and warm during winter. These are what makes property value increase by 8 to 10%.

Six Factors to Consider While Investing in An Organic Farmland

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Tue, 01 May 2018 19:42:00 +0000

The trend of establishing organic farmlands is gaining traction in Pakistan and their number has increased by nearly 30% in the last two years. Unlike 'regular' agricultural land, the soil that is used in organic farmlands does not contain any pesticides or chemicals. Fruit and vegetable grown on these farmlands are therefore considered to be healthier than those grown on non-organic ones.

If you are thinking about investing in an organic farmland, factor in the following:

1. Farmland sizes range between two and eight acres

2. The value of, and the demand for, organic farmlands increased by 18 to 20% every year.

3. Investors are increasingly purchasing regular farmlands and converting them into organic ones by treating the soil and then renting them out. Rentals amount to 15 to 18% of the total value of the property.

4. People who choose to grow crops on the farmland they have purchased benefit from a return on investment (ROI) that ranges between 22 and 30% each year.

5. Organic farmland is increasingly available in the following areas:

Islamabad: Fateh Jhang Road

Karachi: Gadap and Malir

Lahore: Bedian road and BRB Canal Road

Rawalpindi: Chakri Road

6. The prices of organic farmland are as follows:

Purchase price range: Rs. 1.6 - 2.5 million per acre

Monthly rental range: Rs. 40,000 - 55,000 per acre

Eight Factors to Consider While Investing in Commercial Real Estate

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 10:09:00 +0000

The demand for commercial real estate (including standalone shops, retail and office space and warehouses) has increased by nearly seven percent over the last two years. This is because an increasing number of people are investing in commercial real estate in order to supplement their incomes.

If you are considering investing in commercial real estate, factor in the following:

1. Commercial real estate is usually 10 to 12% more expensive compared to residential real estate and the resale value is 7 to 10% higher.

2. Rentals are 3 to 5% higher compared to a residential property. Security deposits are higher as well, and range between one and two years, as opposed to six months for residential real estate.

3. The return on investment (ROI) for commercial real estate ranges between 6 and 12%and is considerably higher than that of residential real estate which ranges between 2 and 4%.

4. Rental agreements for commercial real estate usually last for anywhere between 3 and 10 years. This ensures a steady cash flow for owners, and minimizes the need to look for a new tenant every few years, which can be the case with residential real estate.

5. Amenities that attract tenants interested in renting retail and office space include round-the-clock security, ample water supply, back-up generators, reserved parking and elevators, as well as effective fire and security alarm systems.

6. Once vacant, it takes longer to find a suitable tenant for a commercial real estate compared to residential real estate. As a result, commercial real estate tends to remain vacant for a longer period of time. Furthermore, if a commercial real estate remains vacant for more than six months, the value decreases by three to five percent.

7. Areas attracting the most investment include multistory buildings located on the outskirts of city and as well as coastal areas.

8. Prices of commercial real estate (including plots, standalone shops, and office and retail space) are expected to increase by 10 to 20% this year and rentals by 15 to 20%.

Five factors to consider before investing in startups UK

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Wed, 30 Mar 2016 12:52:00 +0000

Investing in startups UK has increased by an estimated 50% in the last five years. This is because an increasing number of startups investors are purchasing low-cost properties to rent out, which have a relatively high return on investment (ROI) ranging between 20 and 25%.

If you are thinking for investing in startups UK, factor in the following:

1. Popular investment hotspots include Birmingham, Glasgow, London, Manchester and Liverpool.

2. The value of residential property (including apartments and houses) increases by 12 to 20% per year, while that of commercial property (including retail and office space) increases by 9 to 16%.

3. The average rental yield of residential and commercial property ranges between 7 and 11% of total value of the property.

4. Foreigners are allowed to purchase residential and commercial property in the UK even if they do not reside there. However, foreigners who do not have a residence permit cannot qualify for a mortgage.

5. While invest in startups UK, sales transactions can be handled by Solicitors / lawyers in the UK even if investors are not physically present there. This is the most popular way of purchasing property there for foreigners.

The purchase price ranges for investing in startups UK in the field of property are:

Plots

· Available residential plot sizes include: 500, 1,200 and 2,000 square feet.

Ø Purchase price range: $ 200 – 600 per square foot.

· Available commercial plot sizes include: 100, 500 and 1,000 square feet.

Ø Purchase price range: $ 400 – 1,300 per square foot.

Apartments

· Available sizes include: 500, 700 and 1,500 square feet.

Ø Purchase price range: $ 300 – 700 per square foot.

Houses

· Plot sizes include: 700, 1,200 and 2,000 square feet.

Ø Purchase price range: $ 300 – 800 per square foot.

Rental and Office Space

· Available sizes include: 100, 500 and 1,000 square feet.

Ø Purchase price range: $ 500 – $ 1,400 per square foot.

Three Ways To Make a Functional Room in Your Home

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 11:54:00 +0000

A trend emerging among homeowners is to have a “functional room” within their houses or apartments. These spaces usually serve as laundry rooms, studies or storerooms. Their presence increases property value by an estimated five to seven percent and rentals by two to three percent.

The return on investment (ROI) ranges between six to eight percent per year.

If you are planning to incorporate a functional room into your home, following are the three factors you should consider:

1. Space. The minimum size of a functional room should be at least 50 square feet and should ideally have a door that serves as an entry / exit point into the apartment or house. The easiest thing to do is to convert a spare room into a functional one. If you do not have a spare room, consider converting a terrace or balcony into one- if space allows. The option works well for both apartments and houses. In the case of a house, the area below a staircase can work equally well if it I spacious enough.

Construction / renovation cost - $ 1500 – 2000.

2. The basics. Matte tiles in dark colors such as dark green, steel grey and terracotta are easy to maintain and give a natural feel to the space. In the case of a laundry room, include a sink and counter space; the latter can be used as an ironing board or as a workstation in the case of a study. Shelves are a must-have for functional rooms as they can be used for a variety of purposes.

Cost – tiles: $ 150 – 180 per sq ft; sink / wash basin: $ 2000 – 3000

3. Lighting. In addition to spotlights, consider using skylights or glass bricks in place of walls to allow natural light. Louvers are another option, these can be substituted for windows or even be fitted within doors that serves as entrances.

4. Cost – spotlights: $ 50 – 80 (each); glass bricks: $ 20 – 35 per brick; skylights: $ 200 to 250; louvers: $ 150 to 200 per sq ft.

Dame Zaha Hadid Wins The Riba Gold Medal

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 11:32:00 +0000

International women's day (March 8) is a good time to acknowledge the achievements of notable women from around the world. One such woman is renowned architect Dame Zaha Hadid, who became the first woman to be awarded the Royal institute of British Architects (RIBA) Gold Medal, the UK's highest honor architect's last month. Although two other women - Ray Kaiser Eames and Patricia Hopkins - have been previously honored, they were presented the medal in tandem with their husbands.

The RIBA medal is awarded annually by the Royal Institute of Brisitish Architects of behalf of the British monarch in recognition of an individual's or group's contribution to international architecture. It is given for a distingushed body of work rather than for just one building.

In Hadid's case, this body of work includes the Heydar Aliyev Centre in Baku, the Aquatics Centre constructed for the 2012 London Olympics, the Maxxi Museum in Rome, the Serpentine Sackler Gallery in London, the Riverside Museum at Glassgow's Museum of Transport and the Guangzhou Opera house in China. The RIBA medal is not Hadid's first award; other prestigious accolades include the Pritzker prize (she was the first woman to win it in 2004) and the sterling prize for Architecture in 2010 and 2011).

One of the defining aspects of Hadid's work is that her buildings are distinctively neo-futuristic, characterized by powerful curving forms, elongated structures, multiple perspective points and fragmented geometry which are said to evoke the chaos of modern life.

Although Hadid is arguably the most famous woman architect in the world today, there are others with notable achievements. There is Amanda Levete who won the sterling prize in 1999 for designing the media Centre at Lord's Cricket Ground; Angela Brady who won the Irish post/AIB Bank Award for personal achievement in Architecture for a lifetime of designing houses, schools and medical centers across the UK; and Alison Brooks, who set up Alison Brooks Architects, the only UK practice to have won the RIBA award for architecture.

Six Things to Consider When Setting Up A Spa in Your Home

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Sun, 28 Feb 2016 12:45:00 +0000

An increasing number of people are setting up spas in their homes. Although the cost of materials and installation are relatively high, their presence increases properly value by nearly 10 to 12%, and rentals by 15 to 20%.

If you are thinking about setting up a spa in your home, you should consider following six steps:
Size. The size of a spa to accommodate a spa (consisting of a Jacuzzi, Sauna and steam room) should range between 180 to 250 square feet.
Jacuzzi's. You can either install a ready made portable whirlpool of have one custom made, according to your taste in terms if size, shape and materials used.
Cost: Ready made - $ 10,000; customized $ 250 - 500 per square feet.
Saunas. the primary components of a sauna include a stove (heater) that provides dry heat, as well as wooden paneling for the floor and the walls. Remember, a sauna must have a window to allow ventilation when it is not in use.
Cost: $ 2,000 - 4,500.
Steam Rooms. A shower cubicle can be converted into a steam room by installing steam injectors and seating. Avoid false ceilings, as there are prone to mold and fungi due to humidity.
Cost: $ 500 - 700.
Lighting. Dimmer equipped spotlights and string lights work best. Popular colors include blue, orange, red and warm white.
Cost: $ 80 - 150 per light.
Tiles. Miniature mosaic patterns in tones such as green, brown and blue are ideal;they should be waterproof to ensure safety and reduced maintenance costs.
Cost: $ 120 - 350 per square feet.

Designing Football Sports Stadium

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Thu, 26 Jun 2014 12:01:00 +0000

Architects and engineers involved in the design and construction of football stadiums should factor in the following to maximize design efficiency without compromising on the spectator experience.

Location. Select a location that is easily accessible via the city’s major thoroughfares.

Size. Football stadiums are usually constructed on plots ranging between 10 and 15 acres given that provision for ample parking space has to be made as well. The capacity of a football stadium usually ranges between 30,000 and 50,000 spectators.

Design. During construction, ensure that the football orientation factors in the angle of sunlight with respect to the pitch because while designers want to avoid shadows on the field or the sun’s glare for spectators, they also need to ensure sufficient sunlight for viewing and playing.

Pitch. Playing fields usually measure 105 x 68 meters or 125 x 85 meters. Ground maintenance teams should ensure that the pitch is smooth, with adequate watering and drainage systems. In countries, where temperatures are high, alternatives such as artificial turfs are ideal because they do not require sunlight and the football stadium can therefore be covered.

Safety. The year 2014 makes the 25^th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster in which 96 people lost their lives due to a lack of safety measures. Since then, the concerned authorities recommended stricter safety and security regulations, and builders therefore need to make sure that the prescribed number of safety exits are in place with clear pathways, and that an adequate number of surveillance and first aid centers are located within the premises.

Features. Among other considerations, designers should account for VIP lounges, cafeterias, restrooms, parking lots, flood lights and announcement systems. The number of these amenities varies according to the football stadium’s capacity.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Pre-Fabricated Construction

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Wed, 23 Oct 2013 13:17:00 +0000

Although pre-fabricated construction has been deployed for centuries around the world, only now it is gaining traction tremendously.

In a nutshell pre-fabricated construction is the practice of manufacturing the components of a structure (such as walls, floors and roofs) at a factory, and the transporting them to the construction site where they are assembled to create a couple structure after the foundation has been built onsite.

In this way pre-fabricated construction distinguishes itself from the more conventional practice of transporting raw materials (such as cement and steel bars) to the construction site where they are mixed with other materials and / or modified.

Pre-fabricated construction is ideal for sites where storage area is limited, due to size of the plot or because of a lack of open space around the construction site , and can be utilized for building houses, hospitals, offices and factories.

The Advantages of pre-fabricated construction include:

· For the most part it is cheaper than traditional construction, as labor costs and construction time are substantially lower.
· Components are manufactured at a factory, so the need for form work shuttering and scaffolding is greatly reduced onsite. This ensures strict quality control and easier manageability.
· Wastage of material is reduced due to better quality of control; pilferage is also reduced as it is more likely to occur at an open construction site.

The disadvantages of pre-fabricated construction include:

· Greater expertise is required to make sure that the components are fixed perfectly; otherwise air leaks can occur inside the structure which can result in a host of issues such as water seepage and increased heat. Similarly heavy duty cranes are required to handle and assemble the components require expertise.
· If building components are manufactured far away from the construction site, transportation costs can sometimes be higher.

Ultimately, pre-fabricated construction is quicker and more cost effective compared to traditional construction. And with rising construction costs, it is something that developer should consider utilizing.

4 Easy Tips for Investing in a Commercial Property

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Fri, 12 Jul 2013 13:30:00 +0000

Investing in commercial property is an option that many investors considers from time to time as a way to expand their asset portfolio. Commercial property options for investors usually includes office spaces, retail spaces, stand alone shops and vacant plots.

Here are a few things to consider when purchasing a commercial property:

Location. Owning a retail space in certain commercial areas can net in higher rentals and their value also increases at a higher rate. Choose a commercial area where the value and demand of shop is high; shops located among main roads have more visibility, accessibility and are therefore better options. If possible, purchase a commercial property that is located in a specialized pocket such as tailoring hub, computer market or a food street; demand for property there is usually higher.

Weigh your options carefully. Buying a retail space in a mall is a better option than a standalone shop, since retail spaces in malls offer facilities such as security, utilities and a higher number of customers. Similarly, the resale value and the rental yield of an office space are higher when compared to those of a retail space.

Renovating and Reselling. Retail spaces and standalone shops that are sold as many empty spaces (without any renovation work or fittings) are slightly cheaper than those which have been customized according to the kind of business they were being used for.
Therefore, a good option to consider is purchasing an empty space, renovating it, and then selling it for a higher price or renting it out at higher rate.

Vacant Plots. Purchasing a vacant commercial plot in an area that is being developed usually proves to be a lucrative option in the long run because its value and demand increases faster than that of a built-up property.

Latest Five Star Hotel Room Designs

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 13:14:00 +0000

For 15 years the European hotel design awards have promoted architectural excellence in hotel design by inviting entries from the world's leading hotels and designers for 13 categories which includes best lobby and public areas, cafe's and restaurants and bathrooms and bedrooms.

This year the Award introduced a new category called the Sleep Hotel Best Room Design. Teams were required to create a five star model guest room in a undisclosed European hotel near the coast, where the mountains served as a backdrop; designers were evaluated on the basis of how in tune they were regard to meeting the needs of a typical hotel guest.

At a glittering ceremony in London last month, "Shaded White Room" by Scott Browning and Wilmort Dixon Interiors, a UK based design agency was the unanimous choice for best design in the category
The room exhibited a minimalist theme and featured a restrained colour palette; the dominant white contrasted with shades of grey and black. Technology was incorporated in the form of mounted and freestanding IPads with which guests could not only communicate with the reception, but also control lighting levels, blinds and the entertainment system from any part of the room. (These features could also be accessed with a conventional control pad mounted near the bed).

The scenic mountains were made the primary focal point of the room by ensuring that the bed faced them. The minimalist theme was also evident in the bathroom where straight lines and textured tiles accomplished raised glass panels that allowed natural daylight to sleep in. That even the bathroom featured a surround placed on both luxury and technology.

By winning the award for the Sleep Hotel Best Room Design, "Shaded White Room" showed how hotels and guests prefer the comforts of a minimalist room armed sparingly with technology to more opulently furnished living room styled suites. It might just be a star, but it would not be a surprise to find hotel rooms designed in a similar fashion in the future.

Opening up to the Courtyards: An Essential Part of a House

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:35:00 +0000

Have you noticed how many functions these days are hosted in spaces that are enclosed on almost all sides but open to the sky? From Bollywood scenes of Haveli Weddings, to book space the courtyard is one architectural space that is certainly in fashion.
The Sharjah Biennial, one of the region's premiere cultural events (being held this year from March 13), is also using the courtyard as its theme. According to the curator, Yuko Hasegawa, the courtyard is where public and private life come together and new ideas can be discussed and pondered over; the choice of the courtyard as the theme for the event established the idea that the Biennial is the place were eastern and western ideas of art, culture, architecture and society can come together to initial a dialogue on learning.
The view reflects how the courtyard has spanned all cultures for as long as people have lived in constructed buildings. In ancient Rome they were called 'atriums', although the term is now used exclusively to refer to courtyards with glass ceilings; in the Subcontinent, most houses were (and many still are) built with a Sehan in the center where family members , especially women, could gather in peace and privacy away from the outside world ; in China the 'siheyuan' refers to a similar space, surrounded by a conglomerate of houses, often featuring gardens or fountains to inspire thoughts of peace and tranquility. And across the Islamic world, the courtyard is an essential component of almost every mosque - the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore features the largest courtyard of any mosque in the world.
These days, courtyards are used in many other ways as well; in 'Marina' style houses across California where a community of households share a private outdoor space; in college dorms as recreational areas where temporary residents can meet; or as a place where experience and experimentation can converge, like at the Sharjah Biennial

The Remarkable Traditionalist: World's Pioneer in Skyscraper Architecture

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Sat, 09 Mar 2013 14:02:00 +0000

A few years ago after it was completed, Cass Gilbert wrote to a friend about how he wished he had never built the Woolworth building. In his words, "Whatever it may be in dimension and in certain lines, it is after all, only a skyscraper."
Born on November 29, 1859, Cass is now considered a pioneer in Skyscraper architecture and was one of the world's first celebrity architects, counting among his peers Frank Lloyd Wright, Mies Van Der Rohe and Robert Venturi.
Unlike his peers, however, Gilbert stayed away from the modernist and post-modernist debate that would grip architecture in the mid 20th century. Instead, Gilbert believed that architecture's purpose was grander than the intended use of a structure; that a structure must bestow on its occupants, surroundings and even the city it resided in, a purposeful dignity and identity.
Thus when Gilbert envisioned the US Supreme Court Building, he imagined a place which would resoundingly echo the importance of the American Constitution, a document that claims inspiration from Plato's The Republic.
Built in an imposing beaux-arts meets neo-classical style, the pantheon shaped building with its tall columns echoes the tone of the inspiration on its pediment, 'Justice The Guardian of Liberty'. In effect, the building embodies the American sentiment that their republic is the ideological heir of Greek democracy and Roman organization.
The Supreme Court building was Gilbert's last major project, completed a year after his death in 1934. However, the intentions and style of the man who saw "early Romanesque cathedrals" in Beethoven's symphonies and "old Gothic windows" in Mozart's works, is evident in all his buildings.
Unfortunately, by the mid 20th century, modernism had gripped the world; Gilbert's designs were described as simply "classically competent" and his name disappeared into obscurity for a half century. But as a new generation of architects in training is looking back at how cultural identity has evolved in architecture, the words of The Times of London on his death continue to ring true, that Cass Gilbert was "the most remarkable architect of his generation in America."

England's Greatest Gardener

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Sat, 09 Mar 2013 13:35:00 +0000

To Lancelot Brown, the value of an estate rested in its 'capability' for landscape improvement, hence why today he is better known as 'Capability' Brown. He was also probably England's greatest Gardner and is credited with fashioning over 170 of the 18th century's most remarkable gardens. In doing so he demonstrated how far landscape architecture could boost the appeal and value of a traditional estate.
Brown initially trained under William Kent who pioneered the English Landscape Garden as distinct from the French Formal Garden which was in fashion at the time. Where the French Gardens exhibited order over nature thanks to stairways that led to carefully sculpted hedges surrounding a central fountain, Kent's gardens were inspired by nature and featured lawns surrounded by droves of trees usually in front of a pond or lake.
Brown took the idea further by removing all unnatural structures that preceded the gardens and replacing them will rolling lawns punctuated by clumps of trees opening up carefully to reveal gazebos, temples or bridges, before spreading out towards invisibly dammed streams and lakes.
Brown envisioned the layout of his gardens to echo the sprawling English countryside and in many ways, considered dotting a landscape to be similar to using grammar in language.
As he said, "Now there I make a comma, and where a more decided turn is proper, I make a colon; at another part, where an interruption is desirable to break the view, a parenthesis; now a full stop, and then I begin another subject."
One of the Brown's most famous works includes Longleat, an estate that is currently home to the Marquesses of Bath. Originally planned in grids featuring foliage and mazes fashioned out of the hedges, Brown replaced the majority of the plan with vast undulating spreads of grass and roads that weaved through the landscape, making the estate appear much larger than it actually is.
The same technique was employed in the redesign of the grounds of Higher Castle, the venue of the critically acclaimed TV show Downtown Abbey. Those grounds, dotted with beech, oak and cedar trees were once complimented by British Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli who said, "How scenical, how scenical"

Commercial Property in Eastern Karachi For Five to 10 million Rupees

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Jan 2013 14:30:00 +0000

There are several popular commercial hubs n the east side of Karachi, Pakistan that provide a variety of commercial property options such as office space, retail outlets, showrooms and standalone shops. The demad for, and value of, commercial property that has increased by nearly 15 to 20% in the last three years.

Here are three areas where commercial property is in high demad and is available within a price tange of five to 10 million rupees:

1. Gulshan-e-Iqbal comprises several blocks and has numerous commercial pockets. Shops, offices and showrooms are located in malls and low-rise beauty salons, eateries, home stores, retail outlets and wedding halls.
popular commercial areas include those located on: Rashid minhas Road and University Road.
Outlet sizes range between: 100 and 600 square feet.
2. mohammad Ali Society is located a few minutes away from Sharah-e- Faisal. Most retail and office spaces there can be found in low-rise buildings; over the years several eateries have been established there.
Popular commercial areas include: Dhoraji Market and those located on Karsaz Road and Tipu Sultan Road.
Outlet size range between: 100 and 600 square feet.
Price range: Rs. 15,000-100,000 per square foot.
3. Tariq Road and its adjucent areas are popular shopping destinations; the area comprises traditional bazaars, shopping centres and malls. Fabric stores, tailors, jewlers, shoe shops and automobile workshops dominate. There are also plenty of eateries ranging from restaurants to raodside dhaabas.
popular commercial areas include: Bahadurabad, Sharfabad, Sindhi Muslim Socienty and those located on Khalid Bin Waleed Road, Shaheed-e-Millat Road and Tariq Road.
Outlet Sizes range between: 100 and 600 square feet.
Price Range: Rs. 15,000-100,000 per square foot.

The Architect In The Bend

greenoceans2000@gmail.com (Unknown) — Sun, 16 Dec 2012 13:42:00 +0000

The straight line is simple; it sets a limit, normalizes the extraordinary and registers a purpose. But to Oscar Niemeyer, one of the greatest architects of the 20th century who passed away last week, the straight line was the enemy.

To Niemeyer, the straight line was a man-made invention, utterly rigid and full of constraints. While movements such as the Bauhaus based their design dialogue on right angles and straight lines, Niemayer held them in disregard, saying, "The rule is the worst thing. You just want to break it."
This was despite the fact that Niemeyer was a modernist himself, deeply inspired by peers such as Le Co busier with whom he worked on the remarkably rectangular headquarters of the UN in New York. He was, however, averse to devote himself to a particular style and when asked if form followed function, he would reply, "Form follows beauty."
Niemeyer believed in curves, which he said reminded him of the sensuality of the feminine form on the sun-kissed beaches of his native Brazil. They allowed his designs to break away from the monotony that was dictating modernism and reflect a more optimistic and liberating nature of architecture, often culminating in surprise, as at the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi in Sao Paolo, and delight, as at the Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum in Rio de Janeiro.
Niemeyer's legacy is preserved in Brasilia, Brazil's federal capital, which he was commissioned to build in the 1950s. The largest city that didn't exist before the 20th century, Brasilia is as sensuous as any capital could be, with the great halls of Congress resembling giant demos and cauldrons and low-roofed administrative. buildings revealing subtler bends. There, the Cathedral of Brasilia is considered one of Niemeyer's greatest achievements. Using 16 parabolas to connect a high circular roof in the center with shades of tinted glass, the Cathedral boasts an audacious design and is a reminder of an architect who is one quoted to have said "Of curves is made all the universe".