Searching for an apartment can be a tiring endeavor. With the time required for viewings and the fierce competition in some markets, finding a new home can be emotionally draining. On the bright side, exploring various apartment styles and dreaming up décor possibilities is truly exciting. From studios to walk-ups, there are numerous apartment styles available, but one that truly merits a resurgence is the railroad-style apartment.
This classic style gained popularity in the 1850s and remained a prevalent choice for renters through the 1920s. Known for their long, rectangular shape and absence of hallways, these apartments make excellent use of every inch of space. Their efficient layout and typically lower cost make them ideal for today’s modern minimalist.
Contrary to what the name suggests, railroad-style apartments aren’t located by train tracks. You will often find them in densely populated neighborhoods where maximizing available space is essential. Cities like Brooklyn, New York, and San Francisco, California, are prime examples. The name derives from the layout’s resemblance to a train car, where you pass through one section (or room) to reach the next.
What to know about railroad-style apartments
Despite their advantages, decorating railroad apartments can be challenging. For instance, the middle rooms often lack windows, requiring some renter-friendly solutions to brighten the space — brighter white bulbs, flameless candles, and ample accent lighting can be beneficial. Depending on your apartment’s layout, you may need to traverse your bedroom to reach the living room or kitchen. Fortunately, there are decor ideas to enhance your bedroom’s privacy. Options like hanging curtains or a canopy around your bed, storing laundry in closed bins, and using strategically-placed room dividers can help maintain privacy when entertaining guests.
It’s also important to note that these apartments are frequently found in older buildings that might not have elevators. However, if the railroad apartment style experiences a revival in new constructions, this issue could be easily resolved. While these layout and decorating challenges might seem daunting, numerous renter-friendly DIY decor tricks can beautify your home. Considering the often lower rent, charming character, and efficient use of space, the railroad style seems worth the potential drawbacks.
