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What is a Garden Style Apartment: Definition, Benefits & FAQs

In a world where concrete jungles and high-rise giants have taken over our skylines, the allure of a home surrounded by green expanses has its unique charm. 

Enter garden style apartments: a delightful intersection of architecture and nature that’s gaining traction in the residential realm. 

Not only do these low-rise homes offer a refreshing break from the usual urban setting, but they also promise a blend of modernity with the tranquility of nature. But are they right for you? 

In this article, we'll unravel the mystique of garden style apartments, weigh them against their architectural peers, and shed light on their development and living experiences.

 

What is a garden style apartment?

A garden style apartment is a low-rise residential building, typically spanning one to three stories, nestled amidst landscaped grounds and green spaces. Unlike urban high-rises, these apartments prioritize a harmonious blend of living spaces with nature, offering residents a serene and open environment. 

Often found in suburban areas, garden-style apartments boast a community-centric design, providing a refreshing alternative for those seeking both modern amenities and a close connection to the outdoors.

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Garden style vs mid-rise vs. high-rise apartments 

Garden style apartments have become a favorite among many, but how do they fare against other architectural styles?

  • High-rise apartments: These towering structures dominate urban landscapes, offering residents panoramic views and often a plethora of amenities within the building. However, the verticality of high-rises can mean less immediate access to open outdoor spaces compared to garden style apartments.
  • Mid-rise apartments: Bridging the gap between garden style and high-rises, mid-rise apartments typically consist of 5 to 11 stories. They might offer some shared outdoor spaces, but they can't match the expansive green expanses typical of garden style developments.

So, with these distinctions clear, what does this mean for those considering investing in or moving into a garden style apartment?

 

Pros and cons of living in a garden apartment unit 

Let’s balance the living experience in garden style units.

Pros

Cons 

Natural setting: Residents often benefit from serene surroundings and a close connection to nature, which can improve mental well-being.

Limited views: Unlike high-rises, garden apartments don't offer panoramic city or landscape views.

Ground-level access: Especially beneficial for those who may have mobility challenges or prefer not to navigate stairs or elevators.

Limited amenities: Garden style complexes might not always offer the same range of amenities as larger multi-story developments.

Spacious layout: They typically offer a more expansive layout, possibly with private patios or balconies.

Potential for pests: Ground-floor proximity might increase the risk of pests like insects or rodents.

Less noise overhead: Without multiple units stacked vertically, residents may experience less noise from neighbors above.

Security concerns: Ground-level access can sometimes lead to security challenges, requiring residents and property management to take additional precautions.

Temperature benefits: They often remain cooler in summers and warmer in winters due to being closer to the ground.

Flooding risks: Being on the ground level, there might be a higher risk of flooding or waterlogging in some areas.

 

Pros & cons of developing garden apartments

As with any architectural design, garden style apartments have their fair share of advantages and challenges for developers looking to invest in the property. 

Pros

Cons

Cost-effective: Lower construction costs as compared to high-rise buildings.

Land use: Requires more land for construction, potentially leading to higher land acquisition costs.

Quick turnaround: A speedier construction process means faster ROI.  

Density limitations: Accommodates fewer residents compared to multi-story buildings

Flexible design: Easier to incorporate unique amenities that residents want.

Regulations & permits: Some localities may have strict zoning laws or green space requirements which could make development challenging.

Enhanced environment: Natural settings can boost the overall appeal of the development, drawing in potential residents.

Infrastructure: The spread-out design might require more extensive infrastructure like plumbing, sewage, and road networks.

Armed with this knowledge, let’s pivot our gaze onto the financial implications, specifically focusing on net operating income.

 

Garden style apartments & NOI

With the right strategies, garden style apartments can contribute significantly to a property's net operating income. Here are ways to make that happen:

  • Amenities Integration: From swimming pools to BBQ areas, integrating unique amenities can justify higher rental rates.
  • Energy Efficiency: Landscaped surroundings can lead to natural cooling, reducing energy costs.
  • Higher Retention: The charm of garden style settings can increase resident satisfaction and reduce turnover.

🐥 Interested in learning more about this topic? Check out our detailed guide on how to increase a property's NOI.

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Access control for garden style apartments

The uniqueness of garden style apartments demands specialized access control solutions. 

Enter LittleBird. Here's why it's a game-changer:

  • Streamlined access: Whether it's for residents, guests, or staff, LittleBird ensures seamless access across various points of the property.
  • Modern-day solutions: From resident access, to smart home automation to self-guided tours and more, LittleBird integrates all essential features in a single platform.
  • Enhanced security: LittleBird’s state-of-the-art access control system caters specifically to the needs of garden style apartments, enhancing security while retaining the community's charm.

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🐥 Learn more about how LittleBird can perfect your property.

FAQS 

What’s the difference between a garden apartment and a townhouse?

A garden apartment refers to a low-rise residential building, often surrounded by landscaped grounds, offering a unique blend of nature and modern living. In contrast, a townhouse is a multi-level, attached home that shares walls with adjacent properties. While garden style apartments emphasize open spaces and community living, townhouses offer vertical space, often with private entrances and sometimes with attached garages.

Why is it called a garden apartment?

The term "garden apartment" originates from the integration of open, landscaped areas around the residential units. These apartments are typically characterized by their ground-level or low-rise design, enveloped by greenery and open spaces. The "garden" in the name underscores the emphasis on nature, providing residents with a refreshing and serene living environment distinct from urban high-rises.

 

Final thoughts…

Garden style apartments have carved their niche in the residential market. While they come with their set of challenges, the pros far outweigh the cons. By integrating modern solutions like LittleBird, developers can offer residents a blend of natural charm and modern-day convenience.

 

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