So You Think You Want to Live in a Pre-War? A Guide for Fancy Folks (and Us Regular Schlubs Too)
Ah, New York City apartments. Tiny closets the size of a hamster wheel, rent that could buy a small island nation, and neighbors who play the tuba at 3 am (allegedly). But amongst this delightful chaos lies a coveted niche: the pre-war apartment.
But First, A History Lesson (Cliff Notes Version)
Pre-war simply means the apartment was built before World War II, generally between 1900 and 1939. Back then, people apparently didn't need apartments the size of a postage stamp. The result? Spacious rooms, enough closet space to house your entire Narnia wardrobe, and hallways so wide you could roller skate down them (don't try this, fire marshals might frown).
These buildings also boast of ornate details that make you feel like you're living in a grand Budapest hotel (minus the creepy concierge). Think high ceilings, crown moldings, and maybe even a decorative fireplace (perfect for roasting marshmallows... or existential dread, whichever).
Perks of the Pre-War Pad
Imagine this: You waltz through your massive pre-war living room, sunlight streaming in from oversized windows. You don't have to contort yourself like a pretzel to get to the kitchen, and the bathroom isn't a phone booth with a showerhead. Sounds pretty dreamy, right?
But the good stuff doesn't stop there. Pre-war buildings often have soundproof walls, meaning you won't hear your neighbor practicing their opera (unless they're Luciano Pavarotti himself). They might even have charming quirks like a doorman who remembers your coffee order (because, let's face it, in this city, good coffee is its own religion) or a rooftop deck with sweeping city views (perfect for pretending you're in a Woody Allen movie).
Hold on There, Buttercup, It Ain't All Sunshine and Rainbows
Living the pre-war dream comes with a few caveats. Get ready for some vintage quirks:
- Those high ceilings? They also mean high heating bills. Brrr!
- Elaborate details? Can also translate to creaky floorboards that sound like a haunted house on a windy day.
- Tiny kitchens? While not as common as in newer buildings, some pre-war kitchens haven't quite gotten the memo on modern counter space.
- Laundry? Forget in-unit machines. Prepare to channel your inner Rosie the Riveter and wrestle with a communal laundry room that might double as a social club (because, let's face it, in this city, laundry day is practically a group sport).
So, is a Pre-War Right for You?
Only you can answer that, my friend. If spacious living and vintage charm are your jam, and you can handle the occasional creak and social laundry session, then a pre-war might be your perfect match.
But if your budget makes a college student weep, and the idea of being roommates with your building's eccentric cat lady isn't appealing, then maybe a cozy (read: tiny) studio in a newer building is more your speed.
The good news? NYC has options for everyone. So grab your broker (or your best friend with a futon), and get ready to embark on your NYC apartment adventure!
