Unit vs Townhouse
Units and townhouses exhibit various differences between them. A townhouse typically refers to a terraced building, and in Australia, the term is used to describe contemporary housing in a terraced style. Conversely, a unit does not have to be a terraced structure and can be single-storied, starting from ground level. People often differentiate between the two based on the number of stories each building has, but this is not entirely accurate. In this article, we will explore more about units and townhouses.
What is a Unit?
A unit can refer to an apartment, villa, or home unit. As an apartment, a unit is a group of apartments contained in a single or multi-storied building. When discussing a villa or home unit, the term refers to one or multiple single-story buildings arranged around a driveway.
One key difference between a unit and a townhouse is that a unit places more emphasis on the building itself. As such, a unit does not have to be terraced. In some countries, units can also be found in a terraced style.
Units are often viewed as individual and independent houses. A home unit is a self-contained house that includes a garden and courtyard and is an independent construction. In some countries, the term “unit” is used to describe apartment structures. Units are sometimes called duplexes and cannot be converted into tenements; they can only be converted into tenements or townhouses after being demolished.
What is a Townhouse?
A townhouse can be a multi-story terraced house or a reference to a house owned by nobility in the city. Historically, British aristocracy had a house in the country and one in the city, with the country house serving as their primary residence and the city house used during special occasions, such as the Christmas season. Townhouses were considered a luxury that only the wealthy could afford, and they remain expensive due to their city locations.
When referring to a specific structure, a townhouse emphasizes the terrace aspect. In Australia, Asia, and South Africa, townhouses are commonly found in complexes, often featuring swimming pools, parks, playgrounds, and gyms. Townhouses are sometimes known as terraced housing complexes, with many traditional townhouses still found in cities like New York. Townhouses can be converted into tenements and are sometimes used as the official residence of a peer or member of the aristocracy in capital cities.
Key Takeaways
- Units can refer to apartments, villas, or home units, whereas townhouses are multi-story terraced houses or houses owned by nobility in the city.
- Units emphasize the building itself and do not have to be terraced, while townhouses focus on the terrace aspect.
- Units are sometimes called duplexes and cannot be converted into tenements without being demolished, while townhouses, also known as terraced housing complexes, can be converted into tenements.
It is important to note that generalizing the features of units and townhouses can be difficult due to the varying ways different countries use the terms to describe different structures. When searching for a place to live, be sure to consider all the details before making a decision.
