Zimbabwe’s commercial real estate sector is beginning to show clear signs of renewed confidence, and one of the strongest examples can be found in Harare’s upmarket Highlands area.
Along ED Mnangagwa Road, the Highlands Precinct is steadily taking shape. The long-term project is set to transform a large stretch of land into a modern, mixed-use urban hub, combining business, retail and lifestyle spaces in one connected environment.
Driving the development is Terrace Africa, a firm best known for its success in retail property. The developer says it is now entering a new phase.
“Terrace Africa’s portfolio has predominantly focused on retail,” the company said, “but we are now entering a more dynamic phase as we expand into mixed-use developments.”
At the heart of this shift is Design Quarter, which will act as the gateway into the wider Highlands Precinct. Designed as a landmark development, Design Quarter is set to blend modern offices, premium showrooms and shared lifestyle spaces in a way that reflects how business environments are changing.
The project will offer about 5,500 square metres of premium lettable space. This includes A-grade and penthouse offices, high-end showrooms and a rooftop venue combining conferencing, dining and entertainment. Developers say the aim is to create a vibrant business destination rather than a traditional office block.
What stands out is the level of early interest. Several major tenants have already committed to the development, well before completion. The Design Quarter team recently hosted PUMA Energy, Trafigura and ZIMOCO on site, giving them a preview of their future space. Their involvement is expected to set the tone for the precinct as a high-quality business address.
The development has also attracted leading lifestyle and interior brands. Confirmed tenants include Natuzzi, Elite Interiors, featuring Hertex Haus, and Verditi Kitchens. Their presence adds a strong design and premium retail element to the project.
Real estate professional Charity Chirume says the building is on track to be ready for commissioning in the first quarter of 2026, marking an important milestone for the precinct.
Beyond Design Quarter, the wider Highlands Precinct continues to develop steadily. Work on roads, utilities and landscaping is laying the foundation for a well-planned urban space that supports both business activity and everyday convenience.
For Zimbabwe’s commercial property market, projects like this represent more than new buildings. They signal growing confidence, long-term investment and a shift towards modern, mixed-use developments that meet international standards while serving local needs.
As Harare’s skyline continues to evolve, the Highlands Precinct stands as a clear sign that the city’s commercial real estate sector is not only active again, but thinking carefully about the future.
