Townhouse

The word townhouse stemmed from the rich and affluent aristocracy of the United Kingdom, and referred to their temporary houses in the town, away from their sprawling country mansions. The elite would have numerous properties in the countryside that served as their residence or residences; however they needed a place in the town, namely the townhouse, for the so called social season and major events. These were events like major balls and the highlight of the social calendar – the events that these well to do people were expected to attend. The parliamentary sessions also required these aristocrats to utilise their townhouse, nearby for somewhat prolonged periods, when the parliament was in session.

The modern day term of townhouse is more applicable to the terraced type housing, as known in the United Kingdom. The term, townhouse today is quite widely used in the United States, Australia and some of the Commonwealth nations.