A colonial lane house stands two-to-three storeys and abuts other homes on both sides. Rows of lane houses are found along downtown longtang lanes. The first floor entrance sometimes has a small lawn and some feature roof terraces or gardens. Narrow staircases connect the multiple floors so lane houses may not be the best place for young children. Closely packed neighbours and thin walls make lane homes noisy at times but the public spaces between the rows are a great place to interact with your neighbours and observe Shanghainese life. Rents start at ¥16,000 for 100-plus square metre homes.­­­­