Example of Ukrainian Practice: The Cottage Construction Boom Near Kyiv
Let’s look at a real-life example that illustrates the trends described above. Kyiv region has traditionally been a leader in suburban construction in Ukraine, and 2025 is no exception. Back in 2021, there were around 247 organized cottage development projects (cottage towns, townhouses, etc.) around Kyiv. Today, that number has more than doubled – over 500 projects are currently being offered by various developers. This boom is driven by high demand for suburban living in the capital region and the emergence of numerous development projects of various formats and price segments.
It is worth noting that the portrait of the suburban home sought by buyers near Kyiv and in other regions has also evolved in line with current trends. According to market analytics, about 70% of inquiries are for homes with an area of 100 to 150 m², as such cottages are considered optimal for a family. Buyers don’t want to overpay for unnecessary space but instead seek convenient layouts and energy efficiency within a moderate footprint. In addition, 86% of buyers want a plot of 200–500 m² – a small yard that is easier to maintain. The popularity of huge mansions on multiple hectares has declined; compactness and functionality are taking the lead. Interestingly, approximately 67% of clients are looking for a standalone cottage, while townhouses account for 11% of demand and duplexes (houses for two families) for 18%. In other words, the vast majority still dream of a detached home with a private yard. This confirms the trend toward privacy and autonomy we previously mentioned.
Regional Features. While the Kyiv region remains the market leader, 2025 has also seen a surge in suburban construction in other areas. Recent events have influenced a shift in demand: many projects have been temporarily suspended in frontline zones, while western regions have seen increased interest. For instance, in relatively safe western regions (Lviv, Zakarpattia, Prykarpattia), prices for suburban real estate have risen significantly in recent years – with increases of up to 75% in Western Ukraine due to growing demand for houses. In particular, the area around Lviv now boasts over 100 cottage projects, a figure that was much lower before. People who relocated from major cities or eastern regions have created a new demand for cottages in quieter areas. At the same time, developers in the suburbs of large cities in central Ukraine (Poltava, Vinnytsia, Dnipro) report a gradual resumption of cottage town construction that had been halted in 2022. Thus, the trend toward suburban living is spreading nationwide, though the pace of development varies depending on economic and security factors.
Practical Implementation. In the Kyiv region, there are now many examples of cottage towns that embody all modern trends. For example, new projects in the suburbs of Kyiv often offer barnhouse or minimalist-style homes of around 120 m² with plots of about 400 m². These towns typically come with unified infrastructure: centralized security, video surveillance, a shared wastewater treatment system (a modern utility solution), public areas with playgrounds, and even solar panels for street lighting. Houses are sold either ready to move in (“turnkey” with renovations and furniture) or at the “pre-finish” stage. Responding to buyer preferences, about 34% of cottages are sold fully renovated and equipped, while others are offered with basic finishes or as structural shells. This shows that people increasingly value time and are willing to pay for ready-to-live-in homes, aligning with the concept of “move in and live.”
In conclusion, the Ukrainian suburban housing market in 2025 demonstrates its maturity. There are options for every taste: from affordable compact homes to luxury residences. Yet what unites them is a shared focus on modernity – in materials, style, and engineering solutions. Developers are responding to the new realities and customer demands, offering housing that reflects the spirit of the times.