5 Marla House Design – Your Dream Home Starts Here
If you’re planning to build a home in Pakistan, you’re likely considering a 5 Marla plot. It’s the most common and in-demand residential plot size in urban areas like Lahore, Islamabad, Multan, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi. But with so many design options, construction costs, and layout decisions, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
So, what exactly is a 5 Marla plot?
In most Pakistani housing societies, a 5 Marla plot typically measures 25×45 feet offering about 1125 square feet of total space. While it may sound compact, a well-designed 5 Marla house can comfortably accommodate a family of 4–6 members, especially with the right architectural planning.
Why is it so popular?
Because it hits the sweet spot between affordability and functionality. It’s cheaper to buy and build on compared to 10 Marla or 1 Kanal plots, but still spacious enough to support modern living with all key amenities car porch, drawing room, bedrooms with attached baths, and even upper floor rental potential.
This guide is crafted to walk you through the entire journey from understanding layout and front elevation design to budgeting and expert construction tips. Whether you’re building in DHA Lahore, Bahria Town Karachi, or a private colony in Faisalabad, this content will help you design a home that’s beautiful, practical, and within your budget.
Ready to move beyond just a dream? Let’s build it one smart decision at a time.
Single or Double Storey? Choosing the Right 5 Marla House Design
One of the first and most important decisions when planning your 5 Marla house is whether to build a single storey or go for a double storey layout. Both options have their own practical advantages and understanding the trade-offs can save you money, space, and long-term regrets.
Single Storey 5 Marla House – Simple, Smart & Budget-Friendly
A single-storey home on a 5 Marla plot is ideal for:
- Small families or couples
- Retired parents looking for step-free living
- Budget-conscious homeowners
Key Benefits:
- Lower construction cost (up to 30–40% cheaper than double storey)
- Faster project completion
- Easier cleaning and maintenance
- No structural reinforcement needed for stairs or upper floors
Possible Drawbacks:
- Limited space for storage or guest rooms
- Less privacy between family members
- No rental income opportunity
Still, for families that don’t need more than 2 bedrooms and a basic kitchen/living setup, it’s a smart, low-stress choice.
Double Storey 5 Marla House – More Space, More Functionality
If you’re building for a growing family or future investment, a double-storey design gives you:
- Extra bedrooms or a home office
- Dedicated guest areas and private family zones
- Rental potential (portion-based living is common in cities)
Upsides:
- Increased resale value
- More room without increasing plot size
- Separate floors for parents and kids (privacy + comfort)
Things to Consider:
- Higher upfront cost
- Longer construction time
- Structural requirements (load-bearing walls, extra plumbing)
A well-planned 5 Marla double-storey home can offer up to 3–4 bedrooms, 2 lounges, 2 kitchens, and 3 bathrooms, plus a terrace or balcony making it a complete lifestyle solution, not just a roof over your head.
Which one should you choose?
If your budget is tight and family size is small, stick with single storey.
If you’re planning for future needs, resale, or rental income, go for double storey it pays off in the long run.
5 Marla House Front Elevation – Make Your First Impression Unforgettable
The front elevation of your home is more than just an outer face it’s the statement your house makes to the world. Whether you’re building in DHA, Bahria Town, or a private society, a well-designed elevation boosts not only curb appeal but also property value.
You don’t need a huge budget to achieve a stylish elevation you just need the right design approach.
Modern Front Elevation Styles That Work in Pakistan
- Minimalist Urban Look
Flat rooflines, straight lines, and muted tones like grey, white, and charcoal. Ideal for people who prefer clean aesthetics and easy maintenance. - Contemporary Traditional Mix
Brick or stone cladding with modern glass railings and wooden panels. Great for those who want a timeless yet modern design. - Jali and Laser-Cut Screens
These decorative metal or cement panels provide ventilation, privacy, and a modern Islamic touch trending especially in Lahore and Islamabad homes. - Glass + Wood Combo
Gives your 5 Marla house a premium edge. Use toughened glass for balcony railings and faux wood tiles or panels for accents.
Tips for a Balanced Elevation
- Use vertical and horizontal lines to create depth and proportion.
- Add LED spotlights to highlight textures and architectural elements.
- Choose weatherproof paints and claddings for long-term durability.
- Keep balconies minimal but functional a smart front-facing balcony adds both style and utility.
Budget-Friendly Elevation Ideas
Even on a budget, you can still impress. Use:
- Stone-textured tiles instead of real stone
- Concrete jali work instead of expensive CNC panels
- Minimal railing with matte black powder coat looks premium, costs less
A well-designed front elevation not only makes your house stand out on the street it also tells buyers, renters, and visitors that this home was built with intention.
Gate Designs for 5 Marla House – Where Security Meets Style
Your house gate isn’t just a boundary it’s your first layer of security, and one of the most visible design elements of your home. Especially in urban Pakistan where plots are compact and security is a concern, your main gate must do two jobs at once: protect and impress.
Whether you’re in a gated society like Bahria Town or a more open-access area, these gate design tips for 5 Marla houses will help you choose the perfect style and material.
Best Materials for 5 Marla House Gates
- Wrought Iron
- Durable, affordable, and highly customizable.
- Works great with traditional and modern themes.
- Easily painted in black, bronze, or rust-resistant coatings.
- Laser-Cut Steel
- Modern, sleek, and trending in upscale areas.
- Lets you create personalized patterns or monograms.
- Slightly pricier than iron but lower maintenance.
- Wooden or Wood-Iron Hybrid
- Offers a warm, luxurious look.
- Requires regular polishing or varnish.
- Best suited for covered gate setups to avoid weather damage.
- Sliding vs. Swing Gates
- Sliding gates save space great for narrow front setbacks.
- Swing gates add traditional appeal but need clearance.
Smart Features to Consider
- Motorized gates with remote control (available in Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi through local vendors).
- Sensor lights or side-wall lighting for night visibility.
- Digital intercoms or smart lock systems for enhanced security.
Gate Design Trends in Pakistan (2025 & Beyond)
- Geometric and grid-style paneling
- Privacy gates with partial visibility panels
- Combination of matte black frames with wood or frosted glass inserts
Decorative cutwork inspired by Islamic motifs (popular in DHA phases)
Pro Tip: Your gate design should align with your front elevation and boundary wall finish. A mismatched gate not only hurts curb appeal it can affect resale value.
Want a polished, secure, and modern entrance? Think ahead, design smart, and don’t underestimate your gate’s impact.
5 Marla House Floor Plans – The Smartest Ways to Use Every Inch
In a 5 Marla plot, you’re working with about 1125 square feet, usually on a 25×45 feet dimension. That’s not a lot of space which is why your floor plan must be intelligent, functional, and future-proof.
Whether you’re planning a single-storey home or a double-storey structure, optimizing your layout can make the difference between a cramped house and a comfortable one.
Essentials Every 5 Marla Layout Should Include
- Car Porch
Even a small hatchback needs a 10×14 ft space minimum. Ensure it doesn’t block your entrance or compromise your boundary wall design. - Drawing Room (Guest Room)
Best placed near the main entrance allows guest access without disturbing private spaces. - Living Room / Lounge
Your family’s comfort zone. Position it in the center for easy access from bedrooms and kitchen. - Kitchen (Open or Closed)
- Open kitchens save space and make the lounge look bigger.
- Closed kitchens offer privacy and better odor control.
- Include a small laundry space if possible even a 3×4 ft corner helps.
- Bedrooms
- On single-storey: plan for 2 bedrooms minimum, both with attached bathrooms.
- On double-storey: 3 to 4 bedrooms with at least one master suite upstairs.
- Staircase Placement
- For internal stairs: place them along the side wall to save lounge space.
- For external access (if you’re renting a portion): stairs should start from porch or side alley.
- Bathrooms
Attached baths are a must for resale value. Also consider a small powder room near the drawing room.
Sample Floor Plan Options
- 2-Bedroom Single Storey Plan
- 1 Drawing Room
- 1 Kitchen
- 2 Bedrooms with attached baths
- Lounge + Dining space
- Car porch
- Laundry/storage niche
- 3-Bedroom Double Storey Plan
- Ground Floor: 1 bedroom, drawing, lounge, kitchen, porch
- First Floor: 2 bedrooms, small sitting area, terrace
- Optional: kitchenette upstairs for rental or guest use
Corner Plot? Take Advantage!
If you own a corner 5 Marla plot, you’re lucky. Use that second open side to:
- Add more windows for natural light
- Build an L-shaped lawn or wrap-around terrace
- Add an extra entry/exit for rental privacy
Remember, a well-planned layout means better airflow, more light, and higher resale value. Never copy a floor plan blindly, always tailor it to your needs, family size, and plot location.
Interior Design Ideas for 5 Marla Houses – Small Space, Big Style
Interior design in a 5 Marla house is all about maximizing functionality without compromising on style. You don’t need a huge space to enjoy a beautiful, well-designed home you just need smart choices and professional tips.
Let’s break it down room by room.
Kitchen – The Heart of the Home
Modular vs. Traditional:
- Modular kitchens are perfect for small spaces. Built-in cabinets, pull-out trays, vertical storage, and soft-close drawers add both style and space efficiency.
- Traditional kitchens with wooden cabinets and closed designs still work well in joint families, but they often feel bulkier.
Open Kitchen Concept:
Open kitchens connected to the lounge are now standard in modern 5 Marla houses. They:
- Make the space look larger
- Allow better interaction with guests/family
- Help with ventilation and natural light
Tip: Use light-colored cabinets, glass shelves, and under-cabinet LED lights to create an airy, upscale look.
Bedrooms – Comfort Meets Clever Design
In a 5 Marla house, each bedroom should be:
- Multi-functional (sleep + work + storage)
- Designed with vertical space in mind (wall-mounted shelves, hanging wardrobes)
- Neutral-toned to feel larger (off-white, grey, beige)
Must-have bedroom tips:
- Use sliding wardrobes to save walking space
- Invest in beds with storage drawers underneath
- Place mirrors opposite windows to reflect light and visually expand the room
Living Room / Lounge – Maximize Flow, Not Furniture
The living room is often combined with the dining area in 5 Marla homes smart zoning is key.
Design strategies:
- Use multi-purpose furniture (like an ottoman with storage)
- Opt for a single statement wall with textured paint or wallpaper
- Hang sheer curtains to allow more light in and create visual depth
- Mount your TV on the wall and use floating media cabinets
Don’t: Overcrowd the room with bulky furniture. Keep traffic flow open.
Staircase – Small, Safe & Stylish
For double-storey 5 Marla homes, the staircase can become a feature instead of a space-waster.
Best staircase designs:
- L-shaped staircases in the corner
- Floating treads with metal or glass railing
- Storage under stairs (convert into pantry, bookshelf, or shoe rack)
Safety tip: Choose anti-slip tiles or wooden treads with edge protectors.
Lighting & Colors – The Illusion of Space
- Use recessed ceiling lights to avoid bulky fixtures
- Stick to a monochromatic or pastel palette
- Paint the ceiling white to lift height visually
- Add floor lamps or wall sconces to layer the lighting
A small house doesn’t mean small design. With the right layout, lighting, and storage, your 5 Marla interior can look bigger, brighter, and more expensive than homes twice its size
5 Marla House Construction Cost in Pakistan – Realistic Budget Breakdown (2025)
Building a 5 Marla house in Pakistan requires not just a strong vision but a well-planned budget. From the foundation to the final paint, every stage of construction comes with its own costs. Let’s break down the two major phases: grey structure and finishing, so you know exactly where your money goes.
Grey Structure Cost for 5 Marla House
The grey structure includes the foundation, walls, roofing, cement plaster, and basic plumbing/electrical conduit work, essentially the skeleton of the house. As of 2025, the estimated cost for a 5 Marla grey structure is between PKR 2,900,000 to PKR 3,300,000, depending on location and material grade.
Key elements that affect grey structure cost:
- Bricks (Awwal or Machine Made)
- Cement and sand rates (Best quality = higher cost)
- Steel/rebar (60 or 72 grade)
- Labor charges (skilled vs. unskilled)
- Plot location (corner, main road = higher cost)
Expert Tip: Use A+ grade materials only cutting corners here will cost you double in repairs later.
Finishing Cost for 5 Marla House
This is where your house starts to look like a home it includes tile work, false ceilings, wardrobes, kitchen setup, sanitary fittings, paint, lighting, doors, and complete electrical + plumbing installations.
Current average finishing cost for 5 Marla in 2025 ranges between PKR 3,000,000 to PKR 3,800,000, depending on the quality and brand choices (local vs. imported).
Major Finishing Components:
- Flooring (tiles, wooden laminate, marble)
- Kitchen cabinets (UV sheet, Korean tops, MDF)
- Paint (interior + exterior emulsions)
- False ceilings and LED lighting
- Wooden doors, wardrobes, stair railing
- Bathroom fittings (Porta, Sonex, Master, etc.)
Note: Finishing cost is flexible you can save or spend based on preferences.
Budget-Saving Tips That Work Without Compromising Quality
- Use local tiles that look like imported ones huge cost saving with similar aesthetic.
- Avoid over-customization in first build. You can always upgrade later.
- Get a cost estimate contract from your builder before breaking ground.
Always compare material rates in open market, especially in cities like Lahore and Rawalpindi where rates vary by area.
Total Estimated Cost of 5 Marla House Construction in 2025
| Phase | Cost Estimate (PKR) |
| Grey Structure | 2.9M – 3.3M |
| Finishing | 3.0M – 3.8M |
| Total Cost | 5.9M – 7.1M |
These figures are for standard-quality homes. If you opt for luxury imported tiles, Spanish fittings, or smart home features, your cost can go even higher.
Should You Build All at Once or In Stages?
If budget is tight, you can:
- Build the grey structure first, then pause for a few months before starting finishing.
- Complete one floor, and add the second floor later especially useful if you plan to rent it out in the future.
Expert Advice and FAQs – What Most Homeowners Ask (and Should Know)
Even with the right floor plan and budget in hand, most homeowners still feel uncertain about the small but crucial details of home construction. Should you hire a contractor or an architect first? Can you build a basement on 5 Marla? How long does it really take to complete a house? Here, we answer the most frequently asked questions with expert clarity and practical tips for 2025.
Can I build a basement on a 5 Marla plot?
Yes, you can but only if your housing society allows it. In cities like Lahore (DHA, Bahria Town, Lake City), permission depends on soil testing and society regulations. Basements can increase your space by 40–50%, but also raise construction cost by 20–30%. If not planned correctly, it may lead to waterproofing issues later. Always consult a structural engineer before deciding.
How many square feet are in 5 Marla?
A standard 5 Marla plot in Pakistan is 1125 square feet, usually measuring 25 feet by 45 feet. However, dimensions can vary slightly depending on society. It’s important to confirm actual plot size and covered area restrictions in your society’s bylaws.
What is the average construction time for a 5 Marla house?
A full double-storey 5 Marla house typically takes 6 to 9 months to complete depending on weather, material availability, and workforce consistency. Grey structure usually takes 2.5–3 months, and finishing work takes 3.5–5 months.
Tip: Add buffer time for Eid holidays, rainy seasons, or any supply delays. Always include penalties for delays in your contract.
How do I find a reliable architect or contractor?
Ask for:
- Portfolio with real site images
- References from past clients (ideally in your city or area)
- Detailed BOQ (Bill of Quantity) with clear pricing
- Written timeline with phase-wise payments
Avoid anyone unwilling to provide documentation or who pressures you to decide quickly.
Pro Tip: For quality control, hire an architect and builder separately. This allows cross-checks and keeps both parties accountable.
Is it important to follow Vastu or Feng Shui in Pakistan?
While not mandatory, many homeowners apply basic principles of Vastu or Feng Shui for peace of mind and balanced energy.
Examples:
- Avoid placing stairs in the center of the house
- Place kitchen in the southeast corner
- Design bedrooms with proper cross-ventilation
- Keep bathrooms away from the main entrance
Even if you’re not spiritual, these rules often align with better design logic and are followed in modern architecture as well.
Should I choose a turn-key contractor or labor + material model?
Turn-key means the builder handles everything from design to finishing and hands you a complete house.
Labor + material model gives you more control but requires time and supervision.
Choose turn-key if you’re overseas or busy.
Choose labor + material if you’re hands-on and want full control over each purchase.
