Luxury flats or dhobi ghats? Woman's post on people drying clothes outside multi-crore apartments sparks debate

A woman’s post on X highlighting clothes being dried on balconies of high-rise buildings has gone viral, sparking a debate over luxury housing designs, practicality and changing urban lifestyles.

Sharing images and commentary about Hiranandani, the user pointed out the contrast between the grand architecture of luxury residential towers and the everyday realities of residents. She said people spend crores on premium apartments, carefully considering layouts, views, interiors and design features, but balconies often end up being used as spaces for drying clothes.

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Viral post highlights contrast between luxury homes and daily needs

In her post, the user described how expensive balconies with views of cityscapes or landscaped surroundings are often transformed into makeshift drying areas, with bedsheets, towels, clothes and other laundry hanging outside.

She wrote that while buildings are designed with a focus on luxury aesthetics, residents often adapt spaces according to practical needs.

The post also suggested that luxury apartments could come with a disclaimer that views may change depending on residents’ everyday activities, including clothes drying on balconies.

Social media users debate practicality and design

The post triggered mixed reactions from users on X, with some criticising the practice while others defended it as a practical household requirement.

One user commented, "Money doesn't bring class," while another questioned what alternatives residents have for drying clothes.

A user argued that balconies with sunlight and airflow are among the best places to dry clothes, using natural wind and solar energy instead of artificial methods.

Another user said there was nothing wrong with drying clothes outside and suggested that people should reconsider their perceptions of traditional practices.

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Users link issue to housing design and Indian needs

Several users shifted the discussion towards apartment design, arguing that modern housing projects often fail to consider practical requirements of Indian households.

One user said builders often do not include dedicated laundry areas despite charging high prices for homes, leading residents to use balconies for drying clothes.

Another user criticised the adoption of Western-style architecture without considering Indian weather conditions, family structures and cultural practices.

A few users also pointed out that outdoor drying of clothes remains common in many parts of the world, especially in warmer and humid regions, as it can be more efficient than indoor drying.

The discussion highlighted a wider debate around whether luxury housing designs should prioritise appearance or incorporate everyday needs of residents.