Before vs After: Which Way Should You Choose for Apartment Street Views?

Apartment hunters often debate the better location: before or after the street. Both positions have unique advantages, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Let's delve into this cityscape conundrum by exploring the pros and cons of apartment locations relative to the street.

Understanding the dynamics of traffic flow, noise levels, and community atmosphere is crucial when deciding between an apartment before or after the street. This guide will help you weigh your options and make an informed decision that suits your needs.

Before the Street: Urban Sanctuary

Living before the street, or on the 'quiet' side, often appeals to those seeking peace and tranquility. These apartments often enjoy reduced noise levels, making them particularly attractive to light sleepers, families with young children, or those who value a serene atmosphere.

the before and after shots of an apartment

before and after pictures of an empty living room

However, the perceived peace comes with trade-offs. Apartment blocks before the street typically have fewer windows facing the street, which might limit natural light and views. Moreover, accessible parking and building exits might be less convenient compared to their counterparts after the street.

Noise Reduction: A Blessing or a Curse?

Lower noise levels are indeed a significant advantage of living before the street. But it's essential to consider the structural aspects of your chosen apartment. Buildings with solid construction and insulation tend to offer better noise reduction than those with thinner walls or poorer construction quality.

Day One vs Six Weeks Later Apartment Transformation | Empty to Cozy Living Room Before After

an apartment building with many balconies on the second floor

Moreover, noise levels can vary significantly depending on the street's layout, the number of vehicles, and the presence of nearby businesses. Always performs a thorough noise check during different times of the day before making a decision.

Natural Light Trade-off

Apartments before the street might suffer from reduced natural light, especially if the building is not designed to capture sunlight efficiently. This lack of sunlight can impact your mood, energy levels, and even your electricity bills, as you might rely more on artificial lighting.

To mitigate this issue, look for apartments with larger windows, higher ceilings, or windows thatWrap around the building's corners. Additionally, consider the building's placement relative to the sun's trajectory; apartments facing south or east might enjoy more morning or afternoon light, respectively.

My First Apartment Renovation (With Before and After Images)

an empty room with hard wood floors and windows

before and after photos of an apartment building

Bizarre - The apartment building at 7609 - 11 Romaine Street in Hollywood appears to have not changed very much over the years. The top photo is from 1961. | Facebook

an empty room with hard wood flooring and ceiling fan in the corner between two windows

After the Street: Active and Accessible Urban Living

Apartments after the street often boast easier access to public transportation, shopping, dining, and entertainment options. These apartments can be perfect for those who value convenience, are active urbanites, or commute daily.

However, living behind the street comes with its unique set of challenges. These apartments often face increased noise pollution, less privacy, and potential safety concerns related to higher foot traffic on the bustling streets below.

Convenience: At the Heart of the City

Apartments after the street frequently offer unparalleled access to urban amenities. Whether you need quick access to public transportation, desire vibrant nightlife, or simply love being within walking distance of various shops and restaurants, these apartments often check all the boxes for urban dwellers.

before and after shots of an apartment building

You Won’t Believe This Apartment Before & After

the room is being remodeled and ready to be used as a storage area for other items

Before & After: Ukrayna'da Küçük Bir Daire için Modern Yenileme

an empty room with wood floors and large windows

an empty room is shown before and after remodeling

before and after photos of a kitchen, dining room and living room in an apartment

before and after pictures of a living room with white walls, wood flooring and beige furniture

an empty room with hard wood flooring and large windows in the corner, before and after remodel

an empty living room before and after remodeling with wood floors in the middle

before and after photos of a kitchen with no cabinets, the room is white in color

an apartment building with cars parked on the street in front of it at night time

Another advantage is that apartments after the street often provide front-row views and easy access to the city's sights and attractions. This can significantly enhance your living experience and make it an exciting place to call home.

Noise, Traffic, and Privacy: Urban Living Realities

While living after the street has its advantages, it's essential to acknowledge the inevitable noise and traffic pollution. Regular street noise, honking cars, and the occasional late-night revelry can intrude upon your quiet time, potentially impacting your sleep and overall quality of life.

Moreover, the lack of privacy might be a concern, given the constant presence of passersby and potential peeping toms. Installing blinds, curtains, or frosted window treatments can help mitigate these privacy concerns. Again, thorough noise checks are crucial when deciding between apartments before or after the street.

Ultimately, the choice between an apartment before or after the street depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Take the time to explore different neighborhoods, evaluate various apartment layouts, and prioritize your needs to find the perfect urban sanctuary that caters to your unique preferences.