Why is Owning a Duplex in Mumbai a Status Symbol?

Mumbaikars have perfected the art of living life King-size. First, home ownership was a status symbol, and then came luxury homes in boutique projects. Then Jodi-homes and now duplex apartments rule the roost. So what is it that duplex apartments bring to the lives of Mumbaikars? Why are these all the rage?

Duplex Mode

The idea of duplex apartments is different in different parts of the world. In India, the term is also used to signify different types of apartments or residential units. The most common understanding, the one used popularly in Mumbai, is an apartment with two floors. So, this unit offers you the spacious feel and comfort of a bungalow with all the conveniences of living in an apartment project. Now that we get the idea let us take a look at why a duplex in Mumbai is such a coveted residential option.

Space – The Precious Commodity

The greatest advantage that a duplex provides is the space it offers. In a teeming metropolis like Mumbai, where space is always at a premium, owning two apartments rolled into one is a sure sign of affluence. It allows you to have more bedrooms, seating areas, bathrooms, and a very luxurious vibe. In a city where most people make do with a 1BHK or a studio apartment, having a separate room for different family members and the kids is precious. Most importantly, a duplex allows you to double the balcony area – offering you better views and more of the great outdoors.

The Lifestyle Factor

The main reason the average homeowner is keen to own a duplex is the lifestyle factor. In a city known for its harsh summers and high humidity levels, the segregation of space adds a wow factor. If the average ceiling height of an apartment is 10 feet, a duplex can offer you a 20 feet ceiling, more ventilation and natural light. A duplex offers you the luxury of creating an office space, a study, or even a workout room in your home – all the things you have wanted in your dream home.

Celebrities Who Own Duplex Apartments In Mumbai

Several B Town stars, celebrities, and sportspersons prefer the convenience of living in a duplex in Mumbai. Cricketing icon Rohit Sharma, for example, owns a limited edition 6000 square foot duplex apartment in the upscale Ahuja Towers high-rise in Worli. John Abraham's duplex apartment in Bandra Bandstand is aptly named Villa in the Sky. It is a magnificent penthouse with stunning sea views. Actor Shahid Kapoor also acquired an 8000 square feet sea-facing duplex in Worli from Oasis Realty. This apartment has a 500 square feet balcony. Actress Kriti Sanon has reportedly moved into a sprawling duplex in Mumbai's most vibrant suburb, Andheri, which is owned by Amitabh Bachchan.

Yes, duplex apartments are definitely a status symbol in the City of Dreams.

Crafting Your Duplex

Most luxury projects offer pre-designed duplex options. This means that the developers design two-storied apartments to be sold as a single unit. In several cases, though, it is possible to convert two apartments on adjoining floors into a single unit. This is easily done if you invest in an under-construction project and liaise with the developer to acquire the necessary permits and clearances. In rare cases, two ready-to-move apartments can also be converted into a duplex, but this can be done if the structural integrity of the construction remains unharmed. This may also require additional permits and clearances from your society and the BMC.