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Need some help here with the Building code.
Working on a full renovation of an existing 2-family brownstone with the first floor 7 steps above the sidewalk.
According to the architect even though we are keeping the front entry vestibule (with 34″ wide door) and the apartment entry doors at 34″ we are required to meet all of the requirements for an Accessible Unit (Section BC 1107)
Which basically includes a handicap size toilet and SUPER wide hallways.
Not to mention 36″ wide doors for the bathrooms and bedrooms.
This code change apparently goes into effect tomorrow (July 1st, 2008).

Does this make sense to anyone else?
Is this true and if so, doesn’t it make a residence feel more like an institution – or at least like a cavern?
With Space at a premium here, it seems to me that the code should be relative to the environment.
We are also currently being evaluated for landmark, which would make adding a ramp to the front a conflict of interests. Not that we would be required to add this at the time of renovation, but if the apartment is supposed to be accessible, then the intent would be that it could be added, even if it means destroying the 100 year old front vestibule….

Any thoughts here?