From Saipem's Hills To Architectural Thrills: Suraj Morajkar's Journey Into Luxury Real Estate With Sun Estates

Nestled in the heart of India's favorite tourist destination, Goa, Sun Estates Developers stands as an epitome of luxurious living, seamlessly blending innovation with architectural splendor. In an exclusive interview with Suraj Morajkar, the Founder and Managing Director of Sun Estates Developers, we unravel the visionary behind the brand, exploring the inspirations, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped Sun Estates into a symbol of opulence in the realm of real estate.

1. What inspired you to venture into the real estate industry, particularly focusing on luxury properties in Goa?

I was inspired by my upbringing in the scenic village of Saipem, Goa, surrounded by hills, paddy fields, and beautiful Portuguese houses. Growing up in a home with brilliant architecture, spacious interiors, and warm colors suited to Goa's tropical climate was my initial lesson in real estate development. It dawned on me that what we considered commonplace in our home was a luxurious experience for others. This realization fueled my desire to create, sell, and enjoy the unique experience of luxury living.

2. What challenges and opportunities do you foresee in the luxury real estate market, especially in a tourist destination like Goa?

Goa, being a sought-after tourist destination and a preferred spot for second homes, faces the challenge of balancing development with preserving its architectural heritage. Limited availability of land has led to skyrocketing prices, turning land into a commercial commodity. The escalating development comes at the risk of compromising Goa's rich culture and heritage, posing a significant challenge for luxury real estate.

3. Sun Estates has a diverse client base, including high-profile industrialists, Bollywood celebrities, and sportsmen. What, in your opinion, attracts such prominent personalities to Sun Estates properties?

Sun Estates does not cater to a specific industry; rather, our work speaks for itself. Our commitment to providing the best includes collaboration with top architects, picturesque locations, and meticulous attention to detail. Creating addresses that resonate with the right community and like-minded individuals is what sets Sun Estates apart, making it an attractive choice for high-profile clients.

4. Can you shed light on the role of world-class architects and designers in Sun Estates' projects, and how their collaboration contributes to the unique aesthetics of the properties?

Sun Estates was conceived with the collaboration of a renowned Indian architect for its first project. As we expanded, we engaged international architects who understood the essence of Goa. Providing them with additional insights about Goa helped capture the distinctive features of Goan houses in our projects. The architects played a pivotal role in elevating the Sun Estates brand through their dedication to detailing and aesthetics.

5. Sun Estates has had a long-standing presence in North Goa, with projects in various locations. How does the company select these locations, and what factors contribute to the decision-making process?

Our company's roots in North Goa influenced our initial projects in and around Candolim, Saipem, Pilerne, and Nerul. The selection of these locations was driven by their breathtaking views of riverside landscapes, hills, and paddy fields. Creating homes that capitalize on the natural beauty of these areas was a priority. Our clients' demand for such serene locations played a crucial role in our decision-making, and we only initiated projects when the right location was found.

6. What future developments and projects can we expect from Sun Estates, and how does the company plan to maintain its leadership position in the industry?

Over the past three decades, Sun Estates has closely aligned its developments with the evolving demands of buyers in Goa. Future projects will continue to cater to this demand, incorporating diverse housing options, from condominiums to single-family homes. Collaborations with international interior designers and landscape architects will ensure that each project reflects the essence of its surroundings. Sun Estates aims to maintain its leadership by staying attuned to market needs, offering unique living experiences, and fostering innovative collaborations.

7. Sun Estates established one of the Hilton Group's first resorts in India. How did this collaboration come about, and what was the vision behind the Hilton Goa Resort?

The collaboration with the Hilton Group materialized after the success of Sol de Goa, which received accolades as the Best New Hotel in Asia in 2011. Accumulating land parcels in my village presented an opportunity to create something monumental. The association with Hilton, a renowned hospitality player, was a natural choice. Engaging the services of Blink, a Singapore-based architecture firm, solidified the establishment of the Hilton Goa Resort. Delivering an international project of this scale empowered our company to contribute something enduring to the region while showcasing our ability to undertake and complete projects of global stature.