Thanks @a4architect. To say you can build a regular (well, maybe not so regular) 1-bd that will somehow morph over time into a 3bd maisonette? If that is the correct understanding then it does sound like a good strategy. Just can't imagine it in my head though. But then again, isn't that why I was asking?

@Seppuku..the wearer of the shoe knows best where it pinches most.The space you need depends on the number of people you propose to house, your aesthetic preferences and your budget.

Ok. a classier 1 bedroomed is fine for you. If i was the one making the choise, i would have chosen a less classy 2 bedroomed since finishes can always be slowly upgraded over time eg floor tiles, fancy wall paint, new roof cover, new kitchen cabinets plus wardrobes, fancy taps etc etc

@all, thanks for the contributions that have made this a reference thread in matters construction. I have a query about phased construction in another sense.

I am considering a project for a 5 floor flat, approx 210sqm per floor. What I am thinking is:
- Construct the entire structure as a shell/frame first i.e foundation, columns, slabs and probably roof.
- Do the masonry next, filling in the walls from the ground floor up.
- Put in the windows, doors, stair & balcony guard rails etc
- Progress to finishing of individual units.
- External works etc

My reasoning is that I'd have finished with mambo za chuma, kokoto na koroga kwanza, and also probably save a bit buying the materials in bulk.
Secondly would then pace the stages depending on availability of funds.
Third would be able to finish up individual units or floors without too much interference with existing tenants, as opposed to say finishing 2 floors completely and then later adding the rest.

Now my queries are:
1. Are there any drawbacks to this kind of plan i.e by not following the usual construction sequence ?
2. Is there a guideline on what %age of cost can be attributed to each stage as outlined above ? Had noted @a4architect's breakdown of foundation, ring beam/columns, walling & roofing being 50% to 60 % of total cost, not sure if this applies to flats as well. If so then would be glad to know what %age can be attributed to walling alone.

Input appreciated.

@a4architect
Fully agree with the reasoning behind starting to get returns on the investment, my main worry was getting complacent after doing 2 or 3 complete floors; restarting construction after having stopped completely would then be a little daunting, esp if cost of materials will then have risen.

Many thanks for the %age split and will of course get a BQ. This gives me an idea of how far I can take the project with an initial lumpsum, then probably consider getting a loan to complete…