A British real estate developer with an expansive portfolio worth over $435 million across Pakistan has revealed plans for the country’s first purpose-built student housing exclusively for women. The project, named Luna, will be established in Lahore by One Homes, a subsidiary of the One Group, in response to the rising demand for safe and structured living arrangements for female students.
The announcement was made in London by Aqib Hassan, Chief Commercial Officer at One Homes, during a press conference. He was joined by Giovanni Vonfanti of Walters & Cohen Architects, Cindy Walters, and Eren Kilic. According to Hassan, the initiative aims to introduce a professional and institutional model for student housing — a sector with substantial potential but virtually no structured investment so far.
Introducing Luna: A First-Mover Opportunity in a $30 Billion Market
Hassan described Luna as a transformative step for Pakistan’s higher education infrastructure. “Luna, Lahore will be Pakistan’s first purpose-built student accommodation for women, created to address the soaring demand for secure and professionally managed housing for students,” he stated. With nearly 2.5 million university students nationwide, the potential for purpose-built student accommodation is vast, estimated to be worth $30 billion. Yet, institutional investments remain absent, making Luna a pioneering move.
The project not only promises attractive returns but also social impact, by supporting women in education and offering safe, tailored living spaces. Designed by Walters & Cohen Architects — a UK-based firm known for their acclaimed work at Oxford and Cambridge — the residence will be situated in Lahore’s education corridor, within 3.5 miles of 12 major universities and a student population exceeding 100,000. The developer emphasized that approximately 1.5 million students across the country currently lack access to formal housing, underscoring the urgency of structured student accommodation.
Redefining Access and Empowerment for Female Students
Hassan emphasized that Luna is more than a business venture — it’s a catalyst for change. “This is an opportunity to make a real difference,” he said. “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.”
This initiative is part of One Homes’ long-term vision to build a portfolio of student accommodations across Pakistan, ultimately developing a new institutional asset class. The project reflects a strategic blend of commercial ambition and social responsibility, marking a shift in how infrastructure can drive societal change.
Architectural Vision Meets Long-Term Practicality
Giovanni Vonfanti highlighted that Luna’s design will be unique in its approach, combining modern architectural elements with sustainable functionality. “This will be the first of its kind in Pakistan,” Vonfanti noted, adding that the initial phase is focused on female students due to their heightened vulnerability in the current housing crisis. Ensuring safety and suitability is central to the architectural planning process.
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The project’s design philosophy is grounded in longevity and adaptability, reflecting the needs of future generations while addressing the urgent concerns of today. The emphasis on security and community for women sets Luna apart from traditional student housing models, positioning it as a benchmark for future developments.
A Personal and Research-Driven Initiative
Cindy Walters shared that Luna’s development is backed by extensive research and personal insight. “As a mother of two university-going daughters, this project resonates deeply with me,” she said. Walters pointed out that while women comprise over half of university enrollments in Pakistan’s urban centers, they often struggle to find safe and affordable accommodation. These limitations not only impact their educational experience but also their long-term career prospects.
The Luna project is designed to directly confront these barriers. By embedding empowerment into its core infrastructure, the development aims to open new pathways for academic achievement and personal growth. Walters emphasized that creating spaces where women feel safe and supported is essential to fostering a more inclusive and progressive academic environment.
The article has been received directly from the reporter.