A common sight in historic metropolitan areas, row houses are an iconic example of multifamily housing structures. As their name suggests, row houses are oriented next to one another “in a row” and without a space in between. Each home is separate from the others, but the structure or building often shares a homeowners’ association or similar governing body.
Along with these key factors, there are plenty of characteristics that make row houses special.
Row house characteristics
Row houses can typically be identified by the following features:
- Multiple homes (at least three) are connected by shared walls on each side.
- Row homes are mostly uniform in appearance, sharing exterior features like windows and front doors. Row houses may have different colors, but all belong together aesthetically.
- Homes have their own individual door to the outside, unlike apartment or condominium buildings using a shared lobby.
- The buildings are typically low-rise, no taller than five stories.
In addition to aesthetic and structural elements, row houses often line entire streets or city blocks. In the United States, you’re likely to find row house neighborhoods in major urban centers with prominent historic districts, such as San Francisco, New York City, Boston and Baltimore.
Row house styles
While following the characteristics listed above, row house construction also falls into some basic architectural style categories. The main architectural styles of row houses include:
- Victorian row houses, which feature nineteenth-century details like stained-glass windows, bright paint colors, high-pitched roofs and ornate gables.
- Federal style row houses, a simple brick facade and three windows facing the street.
- Georgian row homes, which are usually two or three stories high, with brick facades and large windows to the street.
- Greek Revival style row homes, which have flat roofs and columns framing the entryway. They also have ornate cornices and narrow windows.
- Italianate row homes, which make up some of the most recognizable row homes: Brownstones. Italianate style features doors and windows with rounded tops, and frequently includes a bay window and front stoop.
Row houses are popular among many homeowners for their historical significance and unique architectural features. Many cities strive to maintain the integrity and appearance of row houses, so residents can continue to enjoy their aesthetic and charm for decades to come.
About the Author
Jacqui Zuzgo
I have been a REALTOR® in Massachusetts since 1984 and hold both a salesman and broker license. I am currently affiliated with Five College REALTORS® located at 190 University Drive, Amherst, MA. Over my career, I have consistently been a Top Producer in the Pioneer Valley and have gained a reputation for being a strong-minded, no-nonsense negotiator in the industry. I also frequently rank highly on Boston’s Top 20 for sales in Western Massachusetts. Some of my best qualities include my listening and communication skills. I have time and again proven to work well under pressure with exceptional attention to detail. My commitment to my clients and professionalism is obvious in every transaction.
Representing both buyers and sellers in Hampshire and Franklin Counties, as well as assisting in relocations throughout the United States and globally has helped me embrace the need for quality performance and develop an acute and sincere sensitivity to people's needs. Honing in on what matters most is almost a sixth sense. Communication and awareness of the situation at hand produce a final result that has undoubtedly led to the large referral business I maintain.
Education has been a theme throughout my 30 years of experience. Well versed in technology and holding key designations have proven to be assets to my performance and dedication to the Real Estate field. My never-ending enthusiasm, availability, knowledge and drive make for a seamless transaction every client, every time.
I am a native of the Pioneer Valley. I am committed to sharing all the area has to offer in making your transition, whether long distance or short, a satisfying experience.
Education:
- University of Massachusetts, Amherst - Bachelor of Science 1983
- Top Individual Seller for Residential Sales in the Pioneer Valley since 2006.
- #1#1 Realtor in the entire Franklin/Hampshire Counties for Millions Sold since 1999.
- Highest producer in sales since 2004 in Franklin/Hampshire Counties.
- ABR®– Accredited Buyer's Representative
- CRS – Certified Residential Specialist (only 3% of REALTORS® hold a CRS)
- e-PRO – Digital Marketing, Certified e-PRO Realtor®
- GRI – Graduate, Realtors® Institute
- SRES– Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
Biographical Highlights:
Life long, active member of the community, born & raised in the Pioneer Valley. Graduate of University of Massachusetts, Amherst, BS 1983.
Current Committee Involvement:
Member of the local Chamber of Commerce - Post Board of Director's member Volunteer for the Road to Recovery.
Greenfield Community College Foundation Board Member
Greenfield Savings Bank Corporator
MLS Professional Standards Committee Member
Have a question for Jacqui? Jacqui's email: [email protected]
