Chennai’s Real Estate Shift: High-Rises and Skyscrapers Redefine the Urban Horizon

Chennai, traditionally known for its low-rise residential buildings, is experiencing a shift towards vertical growth, with a surge in high-rise construction. The city, once dominated by 14-18 floor structures, is now witnessing skyscrapers over 40 floors. This transformation is driven by increased demand for housing, regulatory changes, and land scarcity.

Brigade’s upcoming project in Perambur, with five towers including one at 49 floors, alongside other developments like Altius at Sholinganallur (47 floors) and SPR towers (45 floors), signals the rise of towering residential spaces. The changes in Floor Space Index (FSI) regulations, as per the Tamil Nadu Combined Development and Building Rules (TNCDBR) 2019, have further fueled this trend.

Chennai, which produces 22,000 to 23,000 dwelling units annually, lags behind cities like Hyderabad and Bengaluru, which generate up to 80,000 units. However, the city’s housing demand continues to grow. To meet this demand, the city must address challenges such as housing shortages and rising living costs. Solutions being explored include unlocking land potential, utilizing FSI tools, and offering processed land at affordable rates to foster development.

Bharat M Jain, Director of Arihant Foundations & Housing, notes that the drive for high-rises is essential to accommodate Chennai’s growing population. High-rises enable cities to expand vertically, easing the pressure on existing infrastructure. These buildings also offer better natural light, ventilation, and panoramic views, enhancing the living experience.

The luxury residential segment is also on the rise, with major redevelopment expected in central areas. The introduction of more high-value land parcels along Old Mahabalipuram Road and Perambur is boosting the construction of tall buildings, with developers capitalizing on relaxed FSI rules. High-rise development is further supported by improved transit infrastructure, including the Metro Rail, and streamlined building approval processes.

Chennai’s skyline, which has evolved from the first high-rise building, LIC Building in 1959, is witnessing rapid change. Between 2010 and 2018, buildings above 20 floors became more common, and by 2019, true skyscrapers began shaping the city’s urban landscape. As the city adapts to vertical development, it faces the dual challenge of modernizing infrastructure while preserving its architectural heritage. This shift offers exciting opportunities for growth and development.