What exactly is a grey structure, what does it include and exclude, and how much does it cost per sq.ft in Lucknow and Prayagraj? A clear guide with a worked example.
Brick & Shape Team 4 min read
Many families in Lucknow and Prayagraj choose to build in two steps: first the grey structure, then the finishing work when funds allow. It's a smart way to manage a budget, as long as you understand exactly what you're paying for.
A grey structure is the raw skeleton of the building: the foundation, columns, beams, slabs and walls, before any finishing work like plaster, flooring or painting. It's called "grey" because of the colour of bare concrete and cement.
Important: When you compare grey structure quotes, check whether plaster and waterproofing are included. Many contractors leave them out, which makes their rate look lower. Our Basic package includes both, plus a kitchen platform.
At Brick & Shape, our Basic (grey structure) package starts at ₹1,199 per sq.ft of built-up area, with Kamdhenu TMT Fe-500D steel, UltraTech/ACC cement, first-class red bricks and structural design by a qualified engineer.
Unlike many grey structure quotes, our Basic package also includes:
See the full specification.
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Plot area | 1,200 sq.ft |
| Built-up per floor (≈85%) | 1,020 sq.ft |
| Total built-up (G+1 + stair headroom) | ≈2,160 sq.ft |
| Grey structure @ ₹1,199 | ≈ ₹25.9 lakh |
| Complete home @ ₹1,699 (Standard) | ≈ ₹36.7 lakh |
The difference, about ₹10.8 lakh in this example, is the finishing work: flooring, doors, windows, fittings, granite, electrical wiring and paint.
Try your own plot size with our cost calculator.
| Stage | Approx. share |
|---|---|
| Excavation, foundation & plinth | ~18% |
| RCC columns, beams & slabs | ~37% |
| Brickwork | ~17% |
| Plaster | ~14% |
| Waterproofing | ~5% |
| Tanks, conduits & kitchen platform | ~7% |
| Site overheads | ~2% |
The RCC frame takes the biggest share of the budget, which is why steel and concrete quality matter so much.
Choose grey structure if:
Choose a complete package if:
Many of our clients start with grey structure and later upgrade to finishing with us. Our Standard and Premium packages can be applied to the finishing stage too.
Does grey structure include plaster? In our Basic package, yes: internal and external plaster and waterproofing are both included. Many contractors leave them out, so always confirm this when comparing quotes.
Can I add floors to a grey structure later? Yes, if the structural design allows for it. Ask your engineer to design the columns and foundation for future floors from day one.
Is the grey structure rate the same in Lucknow and Prayagraj? Our package rates are the same in both cities. Final costs can vary with soil conditions and site access.
Need a grey structure contractor in Lucknow or Prayagraj? Get a free, itemised quote, or build your own custom package and we'll send you the final price.
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