The terminology used to describe various types and sizes of the apartments in Manhattan is quite diverse and specific. Some are universal and easy to understand, others are innovative and purely regional. In many cases, the same term can refer to two extremely different apartments. The following glossary is meant to aid you in your search, clarifying the terms currently used in the Manhattan marketplace.
Studios
One-room apartment with separate bath
Sometimes (but not always) separate kitchen
Size varies
Alcove Studio
Same as above but with separate area for dining and/or sleeping
Often configured in L shape
Sometimes with additional area separated with archway
Convertible 2, 3, 4
apartment with an alcove off the living room or extra space that could be converted into another bedroom
Integer indicates the number of rooms it can be converted to
One-Bedrooms
Separate bedroom and living area
May have separate kitchen
Sometimes with additional area for dining
Size varies
2-Bedrooms
Two separate bedrooms plus a living room
May have separate kitchen
Sometimes with additional area for dining
Bedroom sizes vary widely
3-Bedrooms
Three separate bedrooms plus a living room
May have separate kitchen
Sometimes with additional area for dining
4+-Bedrooms
Four or more separate bedrooms plus a living room
May have separate kitchen
Sometimes with additional area for dining
Loft
Big, open space
Usually converted from a commercial building
High ceilings, large windows
Mostly found in commercial neighborhoods
OTHER COMMON TERMS
+Dining room
Addition to the kitchen used for dining
+Maid's room
Separate bedroom for the maid
May have bathroom
+Office space
Separate room/area used as an office, for business etc.
+Sleep Loft
Add-on structure usually found in apartments with high ceilings
Usually holds a double-size mattress
Comfortable for sleep
Good for Share
An apartment convenient enough to share with roommate
