What Is a Garden-Style Apartment? A Popular Option for Renters Seeking Quiet Spaces

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When searching for a new apartment, many renters yearn for a blend of comfort, tranquility, and greenery — qualities often missing in high-rise complexes or urban developments. Enter the garden-style apartment: A charming housing option that combines apartment living with lush surroundings, creating a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

But what is a garden-style apartment, and why might it be the right choice for you? Let’s find out.

What is a garden-style apartment?

A garden-style apartment is typically a low-rise residential building that features open spaces, landscaped courtyards, and often, direct access to outdoor areas. These buildings are usually one to three stories high, making them a great choice for renters seeking a quieter and more nature-oriented environment. They are designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, offering an aesthetically pleasing alternative to towering apartment complexes.

A green area with trees between two garden-style apartment buildings.

Often found in suburban settings, garden-style apartments are typically suitable for renters who value green spaces and want a more relaxed living experience without sacrificing modern conveniences. Their unique design and layout make them a popular choice for those who prioritize serenity, privacy, and proximity to nature.

What are the benefits of living in a garden-style apartment?

Garden-style apartments offer several advantages that make them stand out from other types of rental properties. Here’s why they’ve become a sought-after option for many renters:

1. Tranquil atmosphere

One of the biggest draws of garden-style apartments is their serene environment. These communities are typically situated away from busy city centers, reducing noise levels significantly. The surrounding greenery and spacious layouts create a peaceful retreat, which appeals to those who want a calm place to call home.

2. Proximity to nature

Living in a garden-style apartment often means having access to lush landscapes, walking paths, and sometimes even private gardens or patios. This proximity to nature can boost mental well-being, providing a daily dose of tranquility and fresh air. It’s a suitable setting for morning jogs, yoga sessions, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee outdoors.

Clean lawn and tidy oak trees along the walk path through a garden-style apartment building in a suburban area in Texas, US.

3. Enhanced privacy

Unlike high-rise apartments where tenants share crowded hallways and elevators, garden-style apartments often have private entrances or shared entrances with fewer neighbors. This design enhances privacy, offering a more personal and homely living experience.

4. Affordable alternative

Garden-style apartments are often more affordable than luxury high-rises or urban condos. Their low-rise construction reduces maintenance and operating costs, which can translate into lower rent for residents. This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious renters who don’t want to compromise on comfort or surroundings.

5. Community feel

These apartments often foster a tight-knit community atmosphere. With fewer units per building, residents are more likely to get to know their neighbors, making it easier to build connections and friendships. The shared green spaces also encourage social interactions, such as casual chats or impromptu picnics.

6. Ample parking and outdoor amenities

Many garden-style apartment communities offer convenient amenities like ample parking, on-site laundry facilities, and outdoor recreation areas. Whether it’s a community pool, barbecue spot, or children’s playground, these extras make life more enjoyable without straying far from home.

Is a garden-style apartment right for you?

Now that you know what a garden-style apartment is, how can you decide if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle? Consider the following:

  • You love green spaces: If having trees, grass, and flowers nearby is important to you, garden-style apartments are a natural choice.
  • You crave quiet living: Garden-style apartments are often located in quieter, less crowded areas, making them a good choice for those who want to escape urban noise.
  • You value affordability: For renters seeking a balance between budget and comfort, these apartments provide excellent value.
  • You work remotely: A peaceful, nature-filled environment can be ideal for working from home, offering plenty of inspiration and a relaxing backdrop for your workday.
  • You prefer suburban living: If city living feels too hectic, a garden-style apartment in a suburban neighborhood could offer the slower pace you’re looking for.

Young woman sitting on balcony with view of the mountains and the sunset, working and using a laptop in a garden-style apartment building.

What are the challenges of garden-style apartments?

While garden-style apartments offer a host of benefits, they might not be the right fit for everyone. One potential drawback is their location, as these apartments are often situated in suburban areas, which may feel too removed from the excitement and convenience of urban living.

Additionally, garden-style apartments may not offer the luxury amenities commonly found in high-rise complexes, such as rooftop lounges, advanced fitness centers, or concierge services. While the outdoor spaces and community features are appealing, renters seeking top-tier facilities might find these apartments less accommodating.

Seasonal maintenance can also present challenges, especially in regions with harsh winters. Responsibilities like clearing snow from pathways or maintaining landscaping can impact the overall convenience of living in these communities.

Balance between comfort and serenity

A garden-style apartment offers a unique blend of peaceful surroundings and practical living. For renters seeking an escape from high-rise living or urban sprawl, these apartments provide a tranquil haven with plenty of green spaces to enjoy. Whether you’re a nature lover, a remote worker, or simply someone looking for a quieter place to call home, a garden-style apartment might just be your fit.

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Alexandra Both is a senior creative writer with RentCafe. She has more than six years of real estate writing experience as a senior editor with Commercial Property Executive and Multi-Housing News. She is a seasoned journalist, who has previously worked in print, online and broadcast media. Alexandra has a B.A. in Journalism and an M.A. in Community Development.

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