Redefining Urban Living: The Rise of Cluster Houses in Zimbabwe

Over the years, the residential market in Zimbabwe has experienced a significant shift. Demand has moved from large-sized houses to cluster houses and townhouse developments. This trend is supported by Kura Chihota (2022), who states that society is facing two trends. Firstly, the traditional family home on 4000-8000 sqm is becoming redundant, and the pressure on the ‘asset rich cash poor’ surviving spouse is real. Secondly, our Zimbabwean families are getting smaller, and the diaspora, a key buyer subset for cluster housing, is exposed to international standards and readily buys these lock-up-and-go properties.

It has been widely reported that the Harare mayor considers densification to be the “in thing.” In Zimbabwe, human settlements have been governed by the Zimbabwe National Human Settlements Policy, which calls for the construction of flats, cluster houses, and subdivisions of low-density lots.

The primary advantage of cluster housing is the sense of community that it fosters. Because the homes are built near each other, it is easier for residents to form close bonds. This can lead to a stronger sense of belonging and help combat feelings of isolation or loneliness.

As a result of this demand shift, the City of Harare has decided that all new cluster developments must upgrade the existing drainage systems because originally, the stand was zoned to cater to one family. After numerous people have converted their properties into cluster houses, this policy has been implemented by the Local Authority.

The newly planned medium-density suburb in Bulawayo, located near Bellevue, incorporates townhouse clusters. “Clusters are the highest and best use in the golden triangle of Harare. With this view in mind, standalone units may become redundant as this new housing type becomes more prevalent in the residential market.

Mukamba Urban Developers is committed to working with landowners and those hired to develop it, to rethink how our cities should develop for our children.