Accra Property Perspective - December 2024 Edition

In This Edition:?

●????? ?? Sustainability in Real Estate

●????? ??? New Listings: 4-Bedroom Smart Townhome and more…

?? Sustainability in Real Estate

Sustainability in real estate encompasses a comprehensive set of practices and principles designed to reduce the environmental impact of buildings and communities while fostering economic viability and social well-being. Beyond the ecological focus of green buildings, sustainability in real estate integrates energy-efficient technologies, eco-friendly materials, and thoughtful processes throughout the lifecycle of real estate assets—from design and construction to operation and maintenance.

The overarching aim is to create properties that are resource-efficient, resilient, and adaptable to the needs of present and future generations, addressing not only environmental but also social considerations. Adopting sustainability concepts and adhering to green building standards are key steps toward achieving this holistic vision of sustainable real estate. In Ghana and other parts of Africa, sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity, as urban populations grow and the demand for housing and infrastructure intensifies.

Real-World Examples of Sustainability in Action:

One practical case study from Denkstatt highlights the effectiveness of green building strategies. Their work emphasizes creating environmentally friendly real estate by using energy-efficient materials, renewable energy sources, and smart technologies to reduce a building's carbon footprint. Such approaches are adaptable to Africa, where solar energy and natural ventilation can be leveraged cost-effectively.

Closer to home, projects like Villanova and Appolonia City have set benchmarks for sustainable development in Ghana by embracing eco-friendly designs and prioritizing green spaces. These projects demonstrate how integrating renewable energy, implementing water conservation systems, and adopting effective waste management strategies can redefine urban living in environmentally conscious ways.

Similarly, the Bank Square, the new headquarters of the Central Bank of Ghana, exemplifies cutting-edge sustainability practices. Its design incorporates features such as rainwater harvesting systems, UV-protected glazed windows to reduce heat gain, and a natural stone fa?ade with self-cleaning properties, which significantly lowers maintenance requirements. These forward-thinking elements ensure the facility remains efficient, resilient, and cost-effective for decades, highlighting the potential for sustainability to drive long-term value and functionality in real estate developments.

Another remarkable example is Goldkey Properties’ Cantonments City, which underscores a commitment to sustainability through eco-friendly business spaces and green infrastructure. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, with the project receiving recognition for its innovative approach to integrating sustainability into urban business environments. To encourage other stakeholders, initiatives like the Green Building Awards promote the adoption of sustainable solutions across Ghana's real estate industry. These platforms celebrate innovative designs and inspire developers to integrate environmentally conscious practices into their projects, fostering a collective movement toward a more sustainable urban future.

As SESO Global notes, the evolution of Ghana’s real estate has seen a gradual shift towards mixed-use developments and renewable energy integrations, addressing housing deficits while promoting environmental responsibility.

Lessons for Africa's Sustainable Future:

1. Leveraging Natural Resources: Solar energy is a natural resource that tends to be overlooked, whereas it is abundant in Africa and can power residential and commercial spaces sustainably. Hence aside from complaining of too much heat from the sun, installing solar panels in mixed-use developments not only lowers energy costs but also ensures resilience during power outages.

2. Community Integration: As you probably might know by now, sustainability isn't just about buildings; it’s about people. Engaging communities in planning processes ensures developments are functional and culturally respectful while fostering long-term buy-in from residents. Adjusting building plans to accommodate the African-centric climate enhances residents' tastes and preferences.

3. Green Certifications and Compliance: As Denkstatt points out, certifications like LEED or EDGE provide frameworks for sustainable building design. African developers can adopt these standards to meet global benchmarks while enhancing market appeal.

4. Cost-Effective Sustainability: Utilizing locally sourced, energy-efficient materials can reduce construction costs while promoting sustainability. For example, bamboo and compressed earth blocks are gaining traction as viable, eco-friendly materials in parts of Africa.

As policymakers, developers, and residents collaborate, they must prioritize solutions that balance affordability, functionality, and environmental responsibility. By embracing sustainable strategies today, we can build communities that not only meet the needs of the present but also protect the future.

??? New Listing: 4-Bedroom Smart Townhome and more…

Experience Luxury Living - Premium 4-Bedroom Smart Townhome in Cantonments for Rent

? Key Features:

●????? 4 En-suite bedrooms with premium finishes and contemporary design

●????? Fully-fitted grade A kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances

●????? Smart home automation system

●????? Private balconies in every room & a penthouse garden terrace

●????? View full features here

Price: $ 4,500/Monthly

Luxurious 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments in Cantonments, Accra

? Key Features:

●????? A fully equipped gym and spa?

●????? A swimming pool?

●????? Concierge services??

●????? 24/7 security & Adequate parking spaces?

?Prices:

1-bedroom: $184,800-$189,800

2-bedroom: $248,000-$268,400

Contact to Schedule a Viewing +233 54 540 1022