APARTMENT

An apartment is a self-contained housing unit that occupies part of a building and is designed for residential living. It typically includes a living area, one or more bedrooms, a kitchen or kitchenette, and a bathroom. It may share walls, floors, or ceilings with neighboring units and relies on shared building amenities and infrastructure.

The term apartment derives from the French appartement, with usage expanding in many languages. In North America, "apartment" commonly refers to rental units; "flat" is more common in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe.

Apartment types vary by size and ownership and include studio apartments (one main room with a separate bathroom), one- to three-bedroom units, and larger configurations. Units can be rental flats or owned condos, and some are cooperative housing.

Living in an apartment involves a lease or ownership agreement, with responsibility for utilities, maintenance, and neighbors' rights. Buildings may provide amenities such as laundry facilities, parking, elevators, security, and common spaces.

Historically, apartments emerged in urban centers to address housing demand during industrialization, with major development in Europe and North America in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today apartment stock ranges from low-rise walk-ups to high-rise towers and mid-rise mid-block buildings.

Regional differences influence terminology, financing, and regulation, including rent control, building codes, and safety standards. Accessibility and energy efficiency are increasingly prioritized in modern design.