Houses since the beginning of modern times have been used for living. Houses are mostly preferred because these structures are thought to be more stable as they are not heighted and the orthodox idea of having more space in terms of rooms, garden, parking lot and privacy.
They are thought to be less prone to natural catastrophes such as earthquakes. Idea behind the house is to raise a family but in recent times the joint family system is seen on a decline. Most houses now host 2-3 people as children grow up and move out in search of employment and other endeavors. Houses are expensive to maintain owing to their huge size. The community engagement in those areas is relatively low.
In recent times high rise buildings have the attention of the populace especially young generation as they are relatively cheaper. The idea of vertical housing is based on the premise of land saving when the population of the world is growing at a fast pace.
Another reason apart from being a cheaper alternative is that the cost of maintenance is very low and the area surrounding the complex is maintained by the management. Shared parks, pool, lobby and parking lots give residents a chance to engage more creating a sense of community between strangers.
A critique on high rises was on their structure and how the buildings are susceptible to earthquakes but modern technology has eradicated this problem. Building materials and construction techniques now are able to withstand earthquakes upto 9.5 richter scale.