曾几何时，复式楼房是许多中产家庭的置业优选。那时，复式住宅以其独特的空间结构，营造出一种大气开阔的居住氛围，仿佛拥有了两层楼的生活空间， 令人心驰神往。人们憧憬着将下层设计成会客、用餐和佣人起居的场所，而上层则作为私密的休憩空间，容纳卧室和书房，这种功能分区明确的居住体验， 在当时颇具吸引力。 然而，时过境迁，近几年"逃离"复式楼的人群却日益增多。今年春节前夕，我偶遇了多年前的同事老孙，他于2018年初在上海闵行区购置了一套复式房，如 今却对当初的决定懊悔不已。在老孙看来，复式楼存在着一些难以回避的硬伤，使居住体验大打折扣。 首先，居住体验感差强人意。当初选择复式房，本是期望获得优于普通住宅的居住体验，但现实却往往令人失望。首当其冲的问题便是层高。通常复式楼的 整体层高仅有五米多，若一层占据三米，二层便仅余两米出头，在一层或许毫无压迫感，但踏上二层，低矮的空间带来的压抑感便会油然而生。 其次，居住成本居高不下。复式房的装修需要专业的设计团队和施工人员，这使得装修费用远高于普通住宅，动辄五六十万元的装修支出，让许多原本就背 负着贷款的中产家庭倍感压力。此外，复式房通常位于中高档小区，物业费、取暖费、维修基金等费 ...

Core Insights - The appeal of duplex apartments has diminished as many individuals now approach them with caution, warning against falling into a "sweet trap" [1] - Initially, duplexes were seen as a way to achieve a desirable living space in urban areas, offering more area at a lower price per square meter [2] - However, the reality of living in a duplex often falls short of expectations, with many residents feeling cramped due to the design [3] Design and Space Issues - Many duplexes are designed with a small footprint, leading to a sense of oppression as the space is divided into two levels [3] - Renovation costs for duplexes frequently exceed initial budgets, with some developers requiring homeowners to construct the duplex structure themselves, adding unexpected expenses [4] - The advantages of duplex living may only be realized in situations with fewer occupants, as increased visitors or family members can exacerbate space constraints [5] Ventilation and Lighting Challenges - Duplexes often suffer from poor ventilation and lighting, typically featuring only one large window, which can lead to discomfort [7] - The upper level's lighting relies heavily on artificial sources, making it difficult to ensure a pleasant living environment [7] Height and Comfort Considerations - Height issues are significant, as some designs compromise the first floor's height to accommodate the second, resulting in cramped areas like kitchens and bathrooms [7] - An ideal duplex should have a height of at least 5.5 meters to ensure a comfortable living experience [7] - The decision to choose a duplex should be based on height and budget considerations, with a recommendation to opt for a comfortable two or three-bedroom apartment instead [7]

Core Viewpoint - The popularity of duplex apartments has significantly declined, transforming from a sought-after property type to one that is difficult to sell and live in, primarily due to various inherent disadvantages [1][3][21]. Group 1: Advantages of Duplex Apartments - Duplex apartments were initially favored for their ability to maximize living space, allowing for a more spacious feel compared to traditional flats [3][5]. - They offer distinct areas for socializing and privacy, making them suitable for families with multiple generations [5][7]. - The design allows for multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, catering to larger families and enhancing convenience during peak hours [7][9]. Group 2: Disadvantages of Duplex Apartments - Poor sound insulation is a significant drawback, leading to disturbances between floors, which can negatively impact the living experience [9][11]. - The actual living space can feel cramped, with limited airflow and natural light, affecting overall comfort and health [11][13]. - The installation of stairs can be inconvenient and poses safety risks, especially in smaller spaces [13][15]. - High renovation costs are associated with duplex apartments, often exceeding 500,000 yuan for a 150 square meter unit, making them less accessible for average families [15][17]. - Living costs can be elevated, particularly for apartment-style duplexes, due to commercial rates for utilities and restrictions on cooking methods [17][19]. - Many duplex apartments lack property certificates and have shorter ownership terms, which can deter potential buyers [19][21]. - The current real estate market is sluggish, leading to poor liquidity for duplex apartments, with many owners facing losses when trying to sell [21].

Core Insights - The article discusses the shift in perception regarding duplex apartments among middle-class families, highlighting the drawbacks that have led to a reconsideration of their desirability [1][3]. Group 1: Living Experience - Duplex apartments were once seen as a symbol of status and taste, providing a villa-like living experience, but this perception is challenged by the reality of living in such spaces [3][4]. - The living experience in duplex apartments is often disappointing due to the compressed upper space, which can be as low as 2 meters, leading to feelings of oppression, especially for taller individuals [4][6]. Group 2: Design Challenges - The design of stairs in duplex apartments poses significant challenges; steep stairs can increase the risk of falls for children and the elderly, while gentler slopes consume valuable indoor space [4][6]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The liquidity of duplex apartments is poor; while they may be easy to purchase, selling them is difficult due to limited demand from high-net-worth individuals who prefer newer properties [6][7]. - A typical 180 square meter duplex can be expensive, making it unaffordable for many middle-class families, and the market for second-hand duplexes is limited, leading to potential depreciation [6][7]. Group 4: Cost Considerations - The renovation costs for duplex apartments can be substantial, often ranging from 700,000 to 800,000 yuan, due to their larger size compared to standard apartments [7]. - Ongoing costs such as property fees, heating, and maintenance are significantly higher for duplex apartments, which can lead to financial strain for owners [7].

Core Viewpoint - The appeal of duplex apartments is diminishing due to high costs, unsatisfactory living experiences, and low liquidity, making them less ideal for middle-class families [1][5]. Group 1: High Costs - The renovation of duplex apartments is significantly more complex and expensive compared to regular homes, with costs for a 150 square meter duplex often reaching 600,000 to 700,000 yuan or more [1][3]. - Ongoing costs such as property fees, maintenance funds, and heating expenses further increase the financial burden on owners, surpassing that of ordinary residences [1]. Group 2: Living Experience - Many owners find that the actual living experience in duplex apartments does not meet their initial expectations, with issues such as poor lighting and ventilation due to the design [3]. - The design of stairs in duplex apartments often poses safety risks for children and the elderly, as they tend to be steep or narrow, which can lead to accidents [3]. Group 3: Investment Risks - The secondary market for duplex apartments is underperforming, with limited appreciation potential and difficulties in selling [3]. - The ambiguity between duplexes and villas leads high-net-worth individuals to prefer standalone villas, while middle-income families are deterred by the high total price, resulting in a "buy easy, sell hard" scenario for duplex owners [3][5].

Core Viewpoint - The popularity of duplex apartments is declining as more homeowners express dissatisfaction with their living conditions and the challenges associated with owning such properties [1] Group 1: Reasons for Initial Popularity - Duplex apartments offered excellent lighting and expansive views, especially for top-floor units, enhancing the quality of life for residents [5] - They provided a tranquil living environment, with minimal noise disturbances and better privacy due to the absence of neighbors above [9] Group 2: Challenges Faced by Homeowners - High renovation costs and challenges arise from the need for extensive design and construction, often leading to quality issues and unexpected expenses [11] - The inconvenience and safety risks associated with staircases are significant, particularly for families with elderly members or young children [12] - Sound insulation issues can lead to disturbances from noise traveling between floors, negatively impacting the living experience [18] - Poor ventilation and lighting can occur in poorly designed duplexes, making the living space feel oppressive [20] - Water leakage risks are prevalent in top-floor units, with aging waterproofing leading to costly repairs that homeowners must bear [24] Group 3: Market Trends and Future Outlook - The market for duplex apartments is shrinking as demand shifts, with many potential buyers unable to afford them and wealthier individuals preferring new properties, resulting in decreased liquidity and difficulty in resale [28]