Physical, Social and Economic Characteristics of Gated Communities for a Living Choice in Karachi-Pakistan: Comparative Analysis of Kaneez Fatima (CHS) and Naya Nazimabad

Abstract

This article contributes twofold to the international discussion on ‘gated communities as a living choice’. First, this study constructs a ‘living choice’ framework based on the physical, social, and economic characteristics of gated communities as established by the four key researchers. Next, the framework is applied to analyze the reasons for living within gated communities in Karachi, Pakistan. A cross-comparison of two gated communities employs post-occupancy household survey questionnaires from residents, and qualitative interviews with real estate developers, and community managers. The findings ascertain that security and lifestyle are the main values associated with living in gated communities in Karachi.