UK group launches Pakistan's first purpose-built student accommodation for women

LONDON: A British real estate developer with a portfolio exceeding $435 million across Pakistan has announced plans to launch Pakistan’s first purpose-built student accommodation for women.

Luna, in Lahore, will be developed by One Homes, part of One Group, to meet the growing demand for secure, structured, and professionally managed student housing. The announcement was made by Aqib Hassan, Chief Commercial Officer of One Homes at a press conference in London. He was accompanied by Giovanni Vonfanti, Walters & Cohen Architects, Cindy Walters and Eren Kilic.

"There are approximately 2.5 million university students across Pakistan and the purpose-built student accommodation sector in Pakistan is estimated to be valued at $30 billion, with zero institutional competition. Luna, Lahore is a first-mover investment opportunity," Hassan said.

He maintained that the project is located in Lahore’s higher education district, adding that the residence is within a 3.5-mile radius of 12 major universities and over 100,000 students.

Hassan added: “This is an opportunity to make a real difference. By empowering young women and creating safe spaces for them to grow, we are investing in a brighter, more equitable future for Pakistan. This is about more than housing; it’s about progress.”

Vonfanti said the project's design and architecture will be the first of it’s kind, based on modern design and long-term suitability.

He said the project’s initial phase is prioritising secure housing for female students because it’s a demographic particularly affected by the current housing shortage.

Walters said the project has been launched after a lot of research. She said: “I have two daughters who go to the university. Women account for over half of university enrollments in Pakistan’s urban areas but face challenges in accessing safe and affordable housing, limiting their academic and professional opportunities. Luna project seeks to address those issues head-on, fostering empowerment through infrastructure.”