American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What type of tenement was notorious for the poor living conditions it imposed on its residents, particularly in New York City?

1. Flat Tenement

2. Dumbbell Tenement

3. Courtyard Tenement

4. Mansard Tenement

The correct answer is: Dumbbell Tenement

The correct answer is the Dumbbell Tenement, which gained notoriety in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially in New York City. This type of tenement was characterized by its distinctive shape, resembling a dumbbell, which was intended to maximize the number of apartments within a limited lot size while attempting to improve ventilation and light access. However, despite the design's intentions, dumbbell tenements often resulted in poorly designed living conditions. The narrowness of the building's cross-section created cramped and poorly ventilated units, and the layout typically included shared staircases and bathrooms, contributing to overcrowding and sanitation issues. These tenements became associated with high levels of poverty and lack of basic amenities, making living conditions extremely difficult for residents. This historical context illustrates the challenges faced in urban planning, especially during periods of mass immigration and rapid urbanization, as cities struggled to provide adequate housing solutions.