Types of housing in Spain: what are they and what are the differences?

Knowledge of the different types of housing in Spain is key, both culturally and practically. Spain's rich history and geography has led to a wide variety of architectural styles and housing types, from historic Andalusian houses with patios to modern apartments on busy coasts. Understanding the characteristics of each type of housing not only allows us to appreciate the architectural diversity of the country, but is also a key factor in making real estate-related decisions such as buying, renting or customizing to suit the needs of each individual or family.

Single-family housing

Single-family housing is a building designed for single-family or co-housing. It differs from multi-family dwellings in that the latter contain several families in different dwellings within a single building. Single-family dwellings may be attached, contiguous, or detached, depending on their relationship to neighboring structures. These dwellings typically have more privacy and outside space than apartments in multifamily buildings.

Chalet

A chalet is a type of single-family dwelling that may have one or more stories and are usually found in apartment complexes or communities with similar characteristics. They are separated from neighboring buildings by walls or other confining structures and may have additional benefits such as a garden or pool. This category includes housing types such as attached chalets and adjoining chalets.

Villa

Among the different types of housing, the villa is the most typical single-family dwelling in Spain. It is characterized by the fact that its rooms are located in the main building. These rooms, which can be on one or two levels, include bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom or living room, among others. It can be surrounded by a garden or a plot of land. A special feature of a villa is the space between it and nearby buildings, thus promoting privacy and autonomy for the family. There are different types of houses such as country houses, stone houses or low houses.

Masia

Masias are traditional Catalan rural dwellings. They are characterized by their thick stone walls, gabled roofs and large fireplaces.

Cortijo

In southern Spain, especially in Andalusia, cortijos are typical rural dwellings, testifying to the rich agricultural tradition of the region. Like masias, cortijos are large structures, often white in color, surrounded by olive trees or vineyards.

Casona

In northern Spain, in regions such as Asturias and Cantabria, a "casona" is an old manor house, often surrounded by green meadows and with views of the mountains. These houses are typically several centuries old and reflect the rich history and culture of the region.

Apartment buildings

This type of housing is the most sought after in Spain, as it offers a variety of options, is usually located in the center of major cities, and is more affordable compared to single-family homes, although it has a more limited space.

Penthouse

A penthouse is the top floor of a building, usually with a terrace. In some buildings, the upper floors are designated for luxurious, exclusive apartments.

Apartment

This is the most common type of housing in Spain and the most sought after. It is located in an apartment building with various levels, with different sizes and number of rooms, predominantly two- or three-bedroom options.

Apartment

Apartments are similar to flats, but they are usually smaller living spaces. They are very popular in tourist areas or as vacation rentals.

Studio

Studios are small living spaces where the living room, kitchen, and bedroom share a single area.

Duplex

A duplex is a residential building consisting of two floors connected by an internal staircase. Duplexes are usually smaller than single-family homes but offer more space than apartments or flats. They can be a good option for small families or couples who want more space but do not want to pay for a single-family home.

Loft

A loft is a type of housing located in industrial areas or buildings. They are characterized by large open spaces with high ceilings. They are often used as studios, apartments, or commercial spaces.

Lofts became popular for the first time in the 1970s in New York when artists and young professionals began converting old industrial buildings into living spaces. They are spacious and open, creating a sense of space and freedom. Typically, they have high ceilings and exposed wooden beams, giving them an industrial yet modern look.

The most common type of housing in Spain is an apartment. To find this out, you just need to look at any real estate on the market and count the number of listings compared to other types of housing. This is mainly due to their location and price.