Grey Structure vs Turnkey Construction –What’s Better? (2025 Guide for Pakistan)

Grey vs Turnkey Construction 2025

Introduction:

When building a home in Pakistan, one of the most critical decisions is choosing between Grey vs Turnkey Construction 2025 Both approaches offer unique benefits and challenges — and the best option depends on your budget, timeline, and involvement level.

This comprehensive guide will explain what each option means, compare their pros and cons, and help you make the right decision for your dream home in 2025.

What is Grey Structure Construction?

Grey Structure refers to the basic skeleton of a house. It includes all the essential civil work — but does not include finishing or decorative work.

INCLUDES:

Foundation and structure

Boundary walls

Concrete slabs

Roof and brickwork

Internal walls

Plastering

Plumbing & electric conduits

Windows (iron/aluminum)

Door frames (without doors)

EXCLUDES:

• Paintwork
• Flooring (tiles/marble/wood)
• Kitchen & bathroom fittings
• Ceiling design (false ceilings)
• Final electric/plumbing fixtures
• Woodwork and cabinetry

You can read this grey structure blog for more information

What is Turnkey Construction?

Turnkey Construction means a complete, move-in-ready home. The contractor handles everything from the grey structure to the final finishing.

Includes Everything in Grey Structure, plus:

• Tiling, flooring, and marble work
• Paint and wall treatments
• Doors, windows, and grills
• Sanitary fittings
• Kitchen cabinets and countertops
• Ceiling design
• Lighting, switches, fans, etc.
• Final plumbing & electric work

For more designing ideas see this https://izhar.com/izhar/?page_id=537

Key Differences Between Grey Structure and Turnkey:

Pros and Cons of Grey Structure Construction:

Pros:

Lower Initial Cost: You pay only for the structure.

Full Control: You can choose all materials and finishes.

Flexibility in Budgeting: Spread your finishing work over time.

Cons:

• Stressful: Requires regular site visits and supervision.
• Time-Consuming: Delays are common due to divided tasks.
• More Contractors to Manage: Need to hire for finishing work separately.

Cost Comparison in Pakistan (2025):

Grey Structure (Per Square Foot):

• Range: PKR 3,000 – 4,000 per sq ft
• For 10 Marla (approx. 3,300 sq ft):
  → PKR 99 – 132 Lakhs

Turnkey Construction (Per Square Foot):

• Range: PKR 5,000 – 6,500 per sq ft
• For 10 Marla:
  → PKR 165 – 215 Lakhs

Note: These are average estimates. Actual costs vary by city, contractor, and material brand.

When to Choose Grey Structure:

Opt for Grey Structure Construction if:

• You want to spread out your construction budget over time
• You have reliable finishing vendors
• You prefer to be involved in every decision
• You’re experienced with construction or have time to supervise

When to Choose Turnkey Construction:

Choose Turnkey Construction if:

• You want a hassle-free experience
• You’re living abroad or can’t supervise
• You want to move in quickly
• You trust the builder’s quality and designs

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

With Grey Structure:

Hiring inexperienced labor

Not planning for future finishing costs

Buying low-quality bricks or steel

With Turnkey:

• Not signing a detailed contract
• No fixed timeline or penalty clause
• Not checking the finishing material list

Legal & Contractual Considerations:

Regardless of the method, always:

• Sign a written agreement
• Mention payment schedule
• Include timeline and penalties
• Get approved drawings and BOQs

This protects you from cost overruns and delays.

Grey + Turnkey Hybrid Approach (Flexible Option):

Some homeowners opt for a hybrid model — they hire a contractor for the grey structure and selectively outsource finishing work (e.g., flooring, paint) while managing design and material choices.

This gives more control than turnkey but less stress than pure grey.

Conclusion: What’s Better in 2025?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Choose Grey Structure if you’re hands-on, budget-conscious, and want full control.
Choose Turnkey if you value speed, convenience, and peace of mind.

In Pakistan’s 2025 construction market, turnkey is gaining popularity due to rising labor costs and increasing demand for convenience — but experienced homeowners still prefer grey for cost-saving and flexibility.

📞 Need a Custom Quote for Your Plot?

At Afaq Ahmad Constructions, we specialize in transparent, turnkey construction of 5 Marla, 10 Marla, 1 Kanal homes in Lahore. Whether you want just grey structure or complete finishing, we handle everything—from architecture to handover.

📱 Contact Us Today
🌐 www.afaqahmadconstructions.com
📞 03234523288