Accommodation

A tenement is a large building that is divided into multiple small apartments or units, usually for people with low incomes. These buildings are often found in crowded urban areas and are typically older, sometimes poorly maintained, with basic amenities. Tenements were originally built to provide affordable housing for working-class families, but they are sometimes associated with poor living conditions, such as limited space, inadequate plumbing, or insufficient lighting. Despite these challenges, tenements remain an important form of housing in many cities around the world.

A hovel is a small, simple, and often run-down building or shelter, typically in poor condition. It is usually uncomfortable, lacking proper facilities, and may be in need of repairs. The term is often used to describe a place where people live in difficult or unhealthy conditions, such as a cramped or damaged home. A hovel is usually seen as an undesirable place to live, offering minimal protection or comfort.

A pied-à-terre is a small, often temporary living space or apartment, typically located in a city or urban area. It is usually used by people who live elsewhere but need a place to stay for short periods, such as business trips or weekend visits. Pied-à-terre apartments are often smaller than a full-time residence and may have basic amenities. They are popular with individuals who want a convenient and comfortable space in a city without committing to full-time living there.

A shanty is a small, poorly built house or shelter, often constructed from cheap or discarded materials like wood, metal, or sheet metal. Shanties are typically found in poor or informal areas and are known for their basic and unstable construction. They offer minimal protection from the weather and usually lack proper services like water, electricity, or sanitation. Shanties are often associated with areas where people face economic hardship, and they are commonly found in slums or informal urban settlements around the world.

A lean-to is a simple, one-sided shelter or structure that is built against the side of a larger building or wall. It has a sloping roof that leans toward one side, typically supported by posts or beams. Lean-tos are often used for storage, as a small workshop, or as a temporary shelter. They are easy to construct and are commonly found in rural areas or gardens, providing a practical solution for additional space. The open design allows for ventilation while offering some protection from the elements.

A barracks is a building or group of buildings used to house soldiers or other military personnel. These structures are typically simple, functional, and designed to accommodate large numbers of people. Barracks often include shared rooms or dormitory-style living spaces, as well as common areas for eating, recreation, and other activities. They are usually located near military bases or training grounds. The purpose of a barracks is to provide a place for soldiers to live, rest, and prepare for their duties, often with basic facilities to support their needs.

A yurt is a portable, circular tent-like structure traditionally used by nomadic people, especially in Central Asia. It has a wooden frame covered with felt, canvas, or a similar material, making it durable yet light enough to be moved. Yurts are designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, making them ideal for a nomadic lifestyle. Despite their simple appearance, they are surprisingly well-insulated and can be comfortable in both hot and cold climates. Today, yurts are used not only by nomads but also for camping, as unique vacation homes, or for alternative living.

An adobe house is a building made from adobe, a natural building material that is made from a mixture of clay, sand, straw, and water, which is then dried in the sun. Adobe houses are typically one or two stories and are often found in areas with hot, dry climates, such as the southwestern United States, parts of Mexico, and the Middle East. These houses are known for their thick walls, which provide excellent insulation, keeping the interior cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Adobe houses are eco-friendly and sustainable due to the natural materials used in their construction.

A ranch house is a single-story home, typically spread out across a large area of land. It is known for its long, low profile and simple, functional design. Ranch houses often feature large windows, an open floor plan, and an attached garage. They are commonly found in suburban or rural areas, with many built on larger lots or farms. The style was popular in the mid-20th century in the United States, and it emphasizes easy access to outdoor spaces, often with a backyard or patio. Ranch houses are ideal for families looking for spacious, single-level living.

Infill refers to the process of building on empty or underused land within an already developed area. This could involve constructing new buildings, homes, or commercial spaces on vacant lots or repurposing existing structures. Infill development is often seen in cities or towns where space is limited, and it helps make better use of available land by filling in gaps between existing buildings. This approach can reduce urban spread and support more sustainable, efficient growth within urban areas.