were developed of block covered with concrete and were in many cases at least five stories high notwithstanding regulations restricting them to 68 feet (21 meters), under Augustus, and afterward 58 ft, under Trajan. The road level distinctively housed craftsmans' studios and business foundations. The homes above were arrived at by an inside normal flight of stairs, getting light and air from the road and an inward court. Numerous insulae were surrounded with open or encased overhangs of wood or cement. Siphoning gadgets could raise water just to bring down condos; occupants of higher lofts needed to utilize public water and sterile offices. Modest development and a restricted water supply caused regular breakdowns and serious flames.
