The pandemic significantly changed how people live and interact with their living spaces. It pushed both homebuyers and developers to rethink what is necessary in a flat. While earlier focus was on space, location, and price, newer concerns like hygiene, ventilation, and contactless living have gained importance.
This article explores whether pandemic-proof features have become a standard offering in new flats in Chennai and what buyers can expect in today’s real estate developments.
What Are Pandemic-Proof Features?
Pandemic-proof features refer to physical and technological additions made to a living space that reduce the risk of disease transmission. These include:
- Touchless entry and elevators
- Better air circulation and ventilation
- Dedicated work-from-home spaces
- Sanitization zones at entrances
- Multi-purpose balconies
- High-speed internet readiness
These features became relevant during the COVID-19 outbreak and continue to hold value for many buyers today.
Are Builders in Chennai Adapting?
Yes, some developers have started adopting such features in response to market demand. However, this is not yet a standard across all new flats in Chennai. It varies from project to project and depends largely on the builder’s target audience, pricing strategy, and the scale of the development.
Premium and mid-range housing projects are more likely to offer advanced amenities like smart home systems, air purification setups, and contactless deliveries. On the other hand, entry-level projects may focus more on basic space planning and cost-effective construction.
Better Ventilation is Becoming Common
Most new flats in Chennai now give more importance to cross ventilation and airflow. Developers have started including wider balconies and better window placement in their plans. While this was present before the pandemic too, the emphasis has increased. Projects that follow Vaastu guidelines also tend to support these ventilation goals, although the reasoning behind the design may differ.
Still, buyers should physically inspect sample flats to check window positions and room layouts. Sometimes, marketing brochures may show open layouts, but the final construction may not support efficient airflow.
Touchless Technology is Available in Select Projects
Touchless access to lifts, gates, and lighting is gradually becoming available, particularly in gated communities and higher-end projects. These systems are usually connected with mobile apps and central control units.
However, such features are still uncommon in budget flats. Developers building compact homes in suburban areas may skip these options to keep costs low. If you are looking for this feature, you should check the specifications before booking. Ask whether the system is operational or just planned.
Sanitization Spaces and Isolation Rooms
During the pandemic, people started using their balconies or entryways as temporary sanitization areas. Builders took note of this and some new flats in Chennai now have a small foyer area near the main door that can be used for parcel drops or initial sanitization. While it is not formally called a “sanitization zone,” its purpose is the same.
Some larger flats have one bedroom slightly away from the others. This room can serve as an isolation space in case of illness. Again, this is not openly advertised but can be observed by studying the floor plan.
Work-from-Home Focus
Most new homebuyers now expect a dedicated space to work from home. As a result, developers are offering extra study areas or corners that can be used as home offices. Some even promote 2.5 BHK flats where the half-room is intended as a workspace.
In budget flats, the living room may be slightly extended to accommodate a work desk. If you are working remotely or in a hybrid model, you should look for these subtle additions. They can make a big difference to your daily comfort.
Digital Infrastructure is a Must-Have
High-speed internet has become a necessity. Most builders have started including optical fiber lines and multiple internet service provider options. In fact, some projects come with Wi-Fi enabled clubhouses or common areas.
This change has happened across most price segments. So, if you are checking out new flats in Chennai, ask about the internet readiness of the unit and what options are available in that area.
Outdoor and Open Spaces Are Getting More Attention
People confined during lockdowns began valuing open spaces more than ever. Many builders have responded by increasing the size and quality of common areas. Parks, walking tracks, outdoor gyms, and seating zones are being included in project layouts.
While these features were present in earlier projects too, their visibility and usage focus have increased. Look for projects with dedicated open space mentioned in the specifications, especially if you have children or elderly family members.
So, Are These Features Now Standard?
Not entirely. While some features like better ventilation, open areas, and internet readiness are becoming common, other elements like touchless systems and sanitization foyers are still limited to specific projects.
It is important for buyers to not assume these features are automatically available. You should personally visit the site, ask detailed questions, and request walkthroughs or demos if features like smart controls or touchless access are advertised.
Final Thoughts
Pandemic-proof features are gradually finding their place in modern housing, and new flats in Chennai are starting to reflect this shift. However, they are not yet a guaranteed offering across all developments. Buyers should remain informed and proactive to choose flats that genuinely meet their new lifestyle needs. By reviewing floor plans, visiting sample flats, and asking direct questions to builders, you can find a flat that matches current expectations shaped by the pandemic.
