Residential Flats offers a wide-ranging and detailed survey of apartment block architecture at the dawn of the 20th century. After tracing the development of flat design from Roman times onwards, Sydney Perks uses real plans of apartment blocks in British, European and American cities for an analysis of building style, layout and usage. Noting examples of both good and bad design, he sets out his ideals for construction of flats of all types, from humble artisans' dwellings to the most lavish mansion blocks. Concluding with Perks' advice for would-be landlords or investors, Residential Flats offers a fascinating and informative picture of an important stage in the development of urban architecture.