TERRACE HOUSES Meaning and
Definition
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Terrace houses are a type of residential housing characterized by a row of identical or similar houses that are connected to each other on either side in a continuous line. Also known as row houses or townhouses, terrace houses share side walls with neighboring properties, creating a uniform appearance along the street. This architectural style is commonly found in urban areas and dates back several centuries.
Typically, terrace houses are narrow and elongated structures, designed to maximize the available space in densely populated areas. They are often built in a uniform architectural style, reflecting the period in which they were constructed. While some terrace houses may have multiple stories, others may be single-story structures.
The front facade of terrace houses usually features a uniform design, with the houses sharing a continuous roofline and possibly decorative elements such as balconies, cornices, or ornamental ironwork. Each house may have its own separate entrance, but they are often situated very closely together, resulting in a common appearance.
Terrace houses have provided affordable accommodation to many people in urban areas, primarily due to the efficient utilization of land. Despite their shared walls, terrace houses often offer sufficient privacy and have backyards or gardens at the rear.
Terrace houses can evoke a sense of community, as residents share a common streetscape and may reside in close proximity to one another. They contribute to the architectural character of a neighborhood and often form distinct rows or terraces, adding to the visual appeal and historic significance of an area.
In summary, terrace houses are a style of housing consisting of a row of connected houses sharing side walls, usually found in urban areas. They are characterized by their uniformity, efficient use of space, and common architectural style.
Etymology of TERRACE HOUSES
The term "terrace houses" originated from the Latin word "terra", meaning earth or soil. This Latin term was later adapted into Old French as "terrasse", referring to an embankment or raised platform. Over time, this word entered English as "terrace", describing a flat, outdoor area built on an incline or supported by a wall. The concept of building rows of interconnected houses with a continuous terrace or balcony on the upper floor also emerged. Thus, the term "terrace houses" came into existence to describe these rows of houses that share a common raised terrace.
