Tenements

Tenements are multi-family urban dwellings rented to tenants, typically housed within a single building. The term originated in medieval England to describe property held by tenancy; in modern usage it refers to low-cost rental housing that accommodates many residents in dense urban environments.

Historically, rapid urbanization in Europe and North America during the 19th and early 20th centuries led to the construction of large numbers of tenements, especially in industrial cities. They were often tall and narrow, with small rooms, limited natural light, and shared sanitation facilities and stairways. Some designs featured dumbbell or slab layouts intended to improve air and light access.

Living conditions varied widely but many tenements suffered overcrowding, poor sanitation, and fire hazards. Reform movements and public policy gradually introduced building codes and housing legislation to improve ventilation, plumbing, safety, and access to light. Notable examples include New York's Tenement House Acts of 1867 and 1901, and similar measures in other cities. Over time, many tenements were renovated or replaced by modern apartment buildings, while some became preserved as historic districts.

In contemporary usage, the term often retains historical connotations, referring to older or lower-cost rental housing; in some places it remains a technical or legal descriptor. The legacy of tenement housing has influenced urban planning, housing policy, and standards for safe, adequate housing.