When it comes to choosing a place to live, there are numerous options to consider. Apartment building styles can vary quite a bit depending on where the building is located. High rise apartment buildings are commonly found within large cities. Meanwhile, in the suburbs, you’ll usually see garden-style apartments and townhome communities that blend seamlessly into the surrounding single-family homes.

Deciding which style building you’d like to live in is often influenced by your location, desired apartment size, personal preference and even your lifestyle. In this guide, we will explore the various types of apartments available, helping you make an informed decision about your next home.

What Is a High-Rise Apartment?

 A high-rise apartment building is more commonly found in urban or city areas where horizontal space is limited. They usually have at least twelve floors, which means residents use an elevator to get to and from their apartments. High-rise apartment buildings will have hundreds of residents and often a slew of amenities and events aimed at bringing people together.

Pros:

  • Often offer great views and access to urban amenities.
  • Typically include elevators and controlled access.
  • May have on-site facilities like gyms and pools.

Cons:

  • Can be more expensive due to location and amenities.
  • Might feel less personal or private due to the number of residents.
  • Potential for longer waits for elevators and more crowded common areas.

What Is a Mid-Rise Apartment?

A mid-rise apartment building is shorter than a high-rise, made up of anywhere from five to eight floors. This means they probably have an elevator, and many include amenities such as swimming pools and community rooms.

Pros:

  • Balance between the intimacy of smaller buildings and amenities of larger ones.
  • Often located in convenient urban or suburban areas.
  • Less crowded than high-rises, offering a more community-centric feel.

Cons:

  • May lack the extensive amenities of high-rises.
  • Could have less impressive views due to the moderate height.
  • Sometimes have limited outdoor space.

What Is a Low-Rise Apartment? 

Low-rise apartments are usually three stories or fewer and provide a more tranquil and suburban atmosphere. These buildings are often found in residential neighborhoods and offer a sense of community. 

Pros:

  • Generally offer a more intimate, community feel compared to high-rises.
  • Often located in residential neighborhoods with less foot traffic.
  • Easier access with fewer stairs and no reliance on elevators.

Cons:

  • May lack the extensive views and amenities of taller apartment buildings.
  • Could have less prestige and fewer modern upgrades than high-rises.
  • Sometimes limited in terms of on-site facilities like gyms or pools.

What Is a Garden-Style Apartment?

Garden-style apartments are typically low-rise buildings with units that typically open onto expansive, landscaped grounds. These apartments offer a suburban feel with the convenience of apartment living. They often feature amenities like pools and communal outdoor spaces.

Pros:

  • Typically have direct access to outdoor space or gardens — a big perk for pet owners.
  • Often located in residential areas.
  • Can be more affordable than high-rise or mid-rise apartments.

Cons:

  • May lack the extensive views and amenities of taller apartment buildings.
  • May have less natural light due to lower elevation and proximity to trees.
  • Buildings are often older compared to high-rises.

What Is a Studio Apartment? 

Studio apartments are small, one-room units that combine the living area, bedroom and kitchen into a single open space. These apartments are ideal for one to two people who appreciate simplicity and minimalism. 

Additionally, studio apartments are an effective way to save money, as they tend to be more affordable than other options. 

Pros:

  • Generally more affordable.
  • Ideal for individuals living on their own.
  • Often located in urban areas, close to amenities.

Cons:

  • Limited space and no separate bedroom.
  • Can feel cramped, especially with guests.
  • Less storage space and potential for clutter.

What Is a Duplex? 

A duplex is a single building with two separate units, each with its own entrance. It often feels more like a house, offering a greater sense of privacy. Duplexes are perfect for anyone who desires a bit more space. 

Pros:

  • Can offer a house-like living experience with separate levels.
  • Usually in residential neighborhoods.
  • Often have more space and privacy than standard apartments.

Cons:

  • Can be more expensive than single-level apartments.
  • May require dealing with stairs regularly.
  • Potential for noise from adjoining unit.

What Is a Walk-Up? 

A walk-up apartment is an apartment building without an elevator, so any unit not  on the ground floor can only be accessed by climbing one or more flights of stairs. This type of apartment is more common in older buildings. Living in a walkup can promote additional exercise and is often more budget-friendly than elevator buildings. 

Pros:

  • Often more affordable than buildings with elevators.
  • Can offer a sense of community with fewer units.
  • Typically found in older, character-rich buildings.

Cons:

  • No elevator, which can be inconvenient for higher floors.
  • Potentially more noise from foot traffic on stairs.
  • May lack some modern amenities and features.

What Is a Loft Apartment? 

Loft apartments are characterized by their open layouts, high ceilings and industrial aesthetics. They are often converted from former warehouses or factories, providing a unique urban living experience. 

Pros:

  • Often feature high ceilings and large windows, providing ample natural light.
  • Open floor plan encourages creative interior design and flexibility.
  • Typically located in urban areas, close to amenities and nightlife.

Cons:

  • Open layout can lack privacy and make heating/cooling inefficient.
  • Often more expensive due to their unique features and urban locations.
  • Noise can be an issue, especially in converted industrial buildings.

Find the Right Apartment With Southern Management

With so many different types of apartments and housing options available, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. Southern Management offers a wide range of options, ranging from a high-rise apartment in the city, to the tranquil setting of a low-rise or a garden-style apartment in the suburbs. 

With 75 apartment communities and more than 25,000 apartment homes in the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore metro areas, we can help you find the right place to call home. Take a virtual tour and contact us to discuss availability, pricing and lease options today!