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The Rise of Gated Townhouses

Gated townhouses offer a compelling alternative to traditional detached houses and high-rise apartments. These self-contained units typically share walls with adjoining townhouses, yet boast private entrances, yards, and parking spaces. This translates to a sense of privacy and security often missing in high-density living, while still fostering a feeling of community through shared green spaces and neighborhood gatherings. Additionally, gated townhouses are generally more affordable than detached houses, making them attractive to young families, professionals, and downsizers seeking a comfortable and secure living space. 

Synergy with Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)

A crucial factor shaping West HCMC's growth is the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) model. TOD focuses on creating walkable, mixed-use communities centered around public transportation hubs. This approach not only reduces traffic congestion and reliance on personal vehicles but also fosters a more vibrant and connected urban experience. Gated townhouses are ideally suited for TOD communities. Their compact footprint allows for higher density development while maintaining a sense of spaciousness through shared green spaces and public amenities. This fosters a sustainable lifestyle where residents can easily access public transportation, shops, restaurants, and entertainment options on foot or by bicycle. 

Exemplary Gated Townhouse Projects in HCMC

Several projects in HCMC showcase the potential of gated townhouses within the TOD framework: 

1. The Meadow (Binh Chanh District):

Developed by Gamuda Land, The Meadow prioritises sustainable living with extensive green spaces, energy-efficient designs, and a focus on community interaction. Its proximity to the upcoming Line 10 metro station exemplifies the TOD model in action. Residents at The Meadow townhouse enjoy convenient access to public transportation, minimising environmental impact. 

2. Celadon City (Tan Phu District):

This sprawling development by CapitaLand integrates gated townhouses with high-rise apartments, retail outlets, and entertainment facilities. A dedicated shuttle bus service connects residents to the nearest metro station, promoting a car-lite lifestyle.

Addressing the Supply Shortage:

While these projects represent a positive step, there's a limited supply of townhouses in Binh Chanh, particularly gated ones. In Q1/2024, new supply was limited with 42 dwellings, up 56% QoQ but down 11% YoY. Primary stock reached 762 dwellings, stable QoQ but improving by 13% YoY.  

To bridge this gap, several initiatives are necessary. Firstly, government policies that incentivise the development of TOD-compliant housing projects with a focus on gated townhouses would be crucial. Secondly, collaboration between developers, architects, and urban planners is essential to ensure these projects seamlessly integrate into the existing urban fabric. Finally, promoting public awareness about the benefits of gated townhouses can stimulate demand and encourage a shift towards more sustainable and community-oriented living.

A Symbiotic Relationship for a Thriving Future:

Gated townhouses are more than just a housing typology; they represent a philosophy of urban living that prioritises privacy, security, affordability, sustainability, and community. As West HCMC continues its remarkable transformation, fostering the development of high-quality gated townhouses within a TOD framework presents a win-win scenario. Residents gain access to a desirable lifestyle that promotes well-being, while the city benefits from a more balanced and sustainable development trajectory. By embracing this symbiotic relationship, HCMC can navigate its westward expansion with a vision for a future that prioritizes both individual well-being and collective prosperity. The future of HCMC's westward expansion is undoubtedly bright, and gated townhouses are poised to play a key role in shaping a sustainable and vibrant cityscape. 

Read further: 

• How to calculate and build property management budget?

• How to Optimise Maintenance Funds in Apartment Buildings

• Creating an Efficient Maintenance Plan for Apartment Buildings

• The Vital Role of the Technical Team in Building Operations