What Is a Row House? Features, Types & Benefits

Ever heard of row houses? They are identical low-rise homes built side-by-side in a row. Each is a single residential unit with its own living space and entrance. This design dates back to 16th-century Europe, mimicking houses in the colonial era. If you are someone who grew up in a big house, moving to an apartment may be displeasing. That’s where a row house makes a big difference. It merges the feel of both community living and an independent space of your own.

Space is limited, and property prices spike with each passing day. Many people cannot afford to build a house in urban settings. This answers the growing demand for row houses in urban areas. They offer a unique mix of comfort, smart use of space and privacy that fits your budget. From traditional to luxury, their varieties abound. Read on to explore row houses, their types, features, advantages and limitations. Learn how they stand out from other options and make an informed decision when choosing your dream haven.

What Is a Row House? 

A row house is a kind of residential design where look-alike homes are built side by side. As the row house meaning suggests, the houses are lined up in a row or straight line. They may be identical or nearly identical. Nevertheless, each home is an independent unit with its own entrance and living space. However, it may share a roofline and one or two side walls with adjacent homes.

When considering what is a row house good for, it helps save land or space and provides an affordable solution for independent living in good neighbourhoods. Row houses root back to the early modern European housing culture. Even today, you can find a generous presence of this design in more adorable aesthetics in many parts of the world. Netherlands, Belgium, USA, UK, Canada, Japan and India, to name a few.

For example:

• Japanese row houses: Often compact and smartly designed to fit narrow streets.
• London row houses: Known for their historic charm and classic brick look.

While they are known as ‘row houses’ in Canada and the USA, the term ‘terraced houses’ is popular in Australia and the United Kingdom. 

What Are The Main Features of a Row House 

The most striking feature, as their name implies, is that these are houses in row, or a straight line. Typically, attached row houses share one or both side walls and the roofline. Besides, they have an identical or uniform architectural design. These houses use space smartly while giving ample amount of space in individual units. Whether you’re a couple or a small or medium family, you can enjoy comfort and privacy as if in an independent home.

Below are the key features that define row homes:

• Shared Structures: Row houses are constructed side-by-side. So, adjacent units share side walls (one or both) and roofline. 
• Privacy: Each house is an independent home because it has its own entrance (front door) and living spaces.
• Similar Design: Houses in rows usually have an identical design, exterior and style. This results in a balanced and harmonious landscape.
• Multi-floor: Each unit or home is typically narrow and often multi-storied to ensure enough extra space. While row houses are usually low-rise, they can have two to five floors.
• Confined Outdoors: Row houses have small private areas like a balcony, a backyard or a patio. Modern designs feature rooftop terraces.
• Budget Living: They are an ideal choice for families or individuals who need a budget home in urban settings. 
• Community Feel: Attached row houses provide a sense of community living while keeping your own privacy.
• Spacing Saving: Shared walls and narrow multi-floor design result in a smaller footprint. This makes them a popular option in cities where space is premium. Meanwhile, interior design strategies can maximise usable interior space.

Different Types of Row Houses 

When buying a house, individual preferences, aspirations and budget concerns vary. While row homes help you draw the benefits of urban living, they do not compromise what you might expect in your dream haven. For that, both styles and types of row houses abound for you to choose one that best aligns with your lifestyle. 

Row homes can be classified based on their architectural style as well as structure. A row of houses can be traditional, modern or even luxury. Some are designed for smart spacing in cities, while others are perched in peaceful suburbs. A contemporary row house tunes to trendy designs and aesthetics. Whereas classic styles ooze the good old charm. Each offers a unique ambience for cosy urban living. Let’s explore their classifications one by one!

Based on Architectural Designs

Row homes can differ in terms of their architectural style and place of origin. These include:

• Georgian – Simple and symmetrical designs with brick walls and a formal look.
• Victorian – Have steeply pitched roofs, fancy details and decorative trims.
• Federal – Clean, balanced and symmetric design with an old-style, classy feel.
• Greek Revival – Resemble ancient Greek temple designs; big columns and classical look.
• Gothic Revival – Detailed designs, pointed arches and steep gables.
• Italianate – Have tall and narrow windows, low-pitched roofs and decorative brackets.

Below are the different types of row houses based on their structure and focus location.

1. Traditional Row Houses 

They are designed with a uniform, classic look. Traditional row house homes are usually constructed close to the street and share walls with each other. They are common in older cities in different parts of the world.

Key Features:

• Neat and simple layouts
• Uniform and identical design for every house in a row
• Two to three floors per house
• Built with stone or brick
• Reflects old, traditional architectural styles

2. Modern Row Houses

Modern row houses are all about smart design and comfort. They have clean lines, large windows and modern features. Modern row house elevation reflects a stylish and eye-catching look to make best use of space for cosy living. A row house modern design often includes smart features like solar panels, home automation with lighting and security systems, space-saving solutions for multi-floor layouts.

Highlights:

• Open floor plans for more space
• Simple, sleek designs
• Large windows and balconies for better ventilation
• Energy-efficient appliances and eco-friendly materials
• Smart home features for comfort and safety

3. Luxury Row Houses 

Looking for luxury living in urban settings without breaking your wallet? Yes, luxury row houses are here to offer exactly that! They are high-end versions that provide better space, comfort and premium features unlike regular row homes. These row house homes are found in well-planned communities. Typically, they have access to facilities like clubhouse, gum or swimming pool.

Key Highlights:

• Stylish interiors, rooms and modern layouts
• Private gardens, lawn, terrace, balcony or rooftop space
• Exclusive covered parking or garage
• High-end finishes and materials
• Top-notch security features

4. Urban vs Suburban Row Houses 

You can find row houses in a city as well as a suburban area. But they may differ in how they align with different lifestyles. Urban row homes are typically located in cities, offering easy access to amenities like public transport, work and shops. Suburban ones are built in quieter neighbourhoods with more greenery and open spaces.

Choosing between these two depends on whether you love the city buzz and prefer convenience over a serene ambience. Below is a quick comparison:

Urban Row Houses:

• Close to workplace and amenities in and around the city
• Compact living space but more convenience and access

Suburban Row Houses:

• More spacious and private
• Calmer surroundings, ideal for families.

Examples of Structural Types of Row Houses

Here are some examples of row home types based on the way in which they are built and arranged, rather than style or luxury:

• Attached homes – Row homes that share side walls and are identical in design.
• Terraced houses – The British word for a long row of houses in a straight line.
• Single-family row houses – Designed for a single family, each with its own entrance.
• Multi-family row houses – Larger row homes divided into several units, ideal for multiple or joint families.
• Townhouses – Typical U.S. term for row house, but bigger and less uniform in design.
• Brownstones – A popular style in cities like New York, with brown stone exterior.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Row Houses 

Planning to buy a row house in India? It is vital to know how well it aligns with your lifestyle, preferences and budget for years to come. Like any other housing option, row homes bring along advantages as well as challenges. Knowing the pros and cons of row houses can help you make an informed decision.

Advantages of Row Houses 

If you are looking for a stylish, comfortable living, in the city or the suburbs, buying an independent house or villa is not the only option. Row houses have you covered with a range of benefits: 

• More affordable than villas; ample living space and privacy than apartments.
• Private entrance and open spaces like patios or gardens.
• Community living due to adjacent homes and friendly neighbourhood vibes.
• Smart use of land, opening up more housing options in prime urban and suburban areas.
• Lower maintenance overheads and costs compared to independent houses.
• Better security due to close neighbourhoods and gated layouts in many projects.
• Stronger asset and investment value due to rising popularity in urban areas.

Disadvantages of Row Houses

Like the flipside of a coin, there are some limitations with a row home. Knowing them is vital to see if it truly aligns with your expectations. The main disadvantages of row houses include:

• Shared walls imply that you may hear noise from neighbours.
• Limited freedom in design and innovation because all houses in the row have a uniform style.
• Confined outdoor spaces than independent houses or villas.
• Limited privacy than detached independent homes.
• Parking may depend on the layout and can be tight in some cases.
• Future modifications and expansion are restricted due to the identical structure planned in a row. 

Row House vs Other Housing Types 

Now, what is the key difference between row house and villas, apartments and condos? A row house comes between apartments and villas in terms of space, cost and privacy. Despite shared walls with neighbours, it offers a decent degree of privacy with separate doors and spaces. But, when it comes to row house vs villa, a row home is not as spacious, private and flexible.

Below is a detailed comparison:

Further Reading: Flat vs House

Row Houses in India: Trends and Demand

Row houses are gaining popularity in India. Many homebuyers like the mix of privacy and community living they offer. As cities continue to grow and space keeps reducing, opting for row houses in India is considered a smart move by many. Moreover, urbanisation, hybrid work culture and the need for a better lifestyle make row homes an attraction for modern families. 

Key Trends

• Low-density living with fewer homes close together.
• More space and extra rooms for work and family time.
• Eco-friendly living with solar power and energy-saving designs.
• Friendly neighbours, but still private.
• Modern homes with smart technology features.

Reasons for High Demand

• Urban growth and mix of comfort, convenience and serene surroundings.
• Affordable options that cost less than a villa.
• Good investment and better resale or rental value.
• Higher demand in Tier-2 cities

How to Pick the Best Row House for Your Lifestyle  

The right choice of your dream home depends on your needs and lifestyle. Consider the space you want, the location and the community you like. Rechecking the key difference between villa and row house can help. Here are some tips to help with a smart choice:

• Check the space available for family, home office and storage.
• Check accessibility to schools, hospitals, shops and public transport.
• Ensure proper sunlight and ventilation.
• Verify safety, parking and shared facilities.
• Check and compare prices and assess the future resale value.

Smart Design Tips for Row Houses 

Smart design can help make a row house home feel more stylish and roomy. Proper planning enhances light, airflow, and storage and makes your home feel more modern and cosy. Here are some ideas to enrich your living experience in a row home:

• Use large windows and open layouts to let ample sunlight in.
• Add smart storage and modular furniture to make the area less crowded and more spacious.
• Choose a modern row house elevation plan for a cleaner, fresher look.
• Set up outdoor spots like a balcony or a small garden.
• Bright colours and mirrors placed in the right spot can make the space more lively.

End Note

A row house strikes the perfect balance of privacy, independent living and community vibe. With the right choice of design, type and location, it can be the perfect haven for you. Whether you prioritise affordable living, or modern lifestyle or luxury, row homes are a great choice with escalating investment value.
For more home-buying tips, expert guidance and high-end services, partner with Confident Group. Our legacy and thousands of happy families, homebuyers and investors are a testament to our seasoned expertise. Explore our blogs for more insights on real estate projects and topics.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is meant by row house?
It is a house built side-by-side in a row with other identical houses. Adjacent houses share side walls but have their own doors and small outdoor spaces. Each acts as an independent house.

2. What is the difference between a row house and a townhouse?
Both have shared walls, but row homes usually have a more uniform look and are often smaller in size than townhouses.

3. Which is better, a row house or a flat?
Flats are cheaper but can have space limitations and shared amenities. Comparatively, a row house gives more privacy and space. The choice depends on your budget and lifestyle.

4. What is the difference between a row house and a bungalow?
A bungalow is a fully detached and large independent house with no shared walls. Row houses share walls with adjacent or neighbouring houses on both sides.

5. What are the advantages of row houses?
Row homes provide an ideal cost-effective housing option in urban settings and optimise space usage. They provide privacy as well as a sense of community living.