Member-only story
How To Be A Good Neighbor In A High-Rise Apartment Building
A little awareness goes a long way when packed into a vertical space
Nobody wants to be “that neighbor.” You know, the one everyone wishes would move.
Well, actually, that’s not true. Experience tells me some people couldn’t care less if they’re “that neighbor.” But you care. I figure it’s safe to assume you care, since you bothered to read this article.
I’ve lived in high-rise apartment buildings in urban settings for 24 of the past 26 years. Below I have gathered some things to keep in mind to be a well-liked and well-respected member of your community.
All creatures in your apartment are neighbors
About ten years ago, a family of four with two young children moved into my building. After a peaceful first month, they rewarded their kids with a present: Two toy poodle puppies.
Every morning at 4:15, almost on the dot: BARK BARK BARK BARK BARK!
I had to be at work at 8:00 those days, which meant my preferred sleep schedule was to go to bed about 11:30 and get up about 6:30. The dogs routinely took away a quarter to a third of that sleep, leaving me groggy at work.
