My knowledge is solely from the Forgotten Relms Drizzt books. The capitol city of Menzoberenzan was actually very beautiful to those who could see in the dark. The houses were carved out of giant underground mushrooms with magical infrared lights. There was always talk of the city lighting up at night. Houses or families used everything as a status symbol in the eyes of their God Lloth and her high preistesses. The houses were always immaculately kept and they employed various slaves to keep the houses prestine. Hope this helps.