Top 5 Stories on Brownstoner This Week: The Legal Difference Between a Basement and a Cellar

In New York There Is a Legal Difference Between a Basement and a Cellar

Unbeknownst to many, the difference between a basement and a cellar, often misconstrued as an endearing colloquial difference, is, in fact, a nuanced legal matter.

At least half the story must be above ground to qualify as a “basement” in New York City. Otherwise, it’s considered a cellar and is not legally habitable — no matter how nice it looks. (Covering up the rubble walls and removing the shackles won’t cut it, sorry.)

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The View From the 65th Floor of Brooklyn’s First Supertall Skyscraper

A Downtown Brooklyn historic landmark, the Dime Savings Bank, is now the base for the borough’s first supertall skyscraper, which recently topped out at 93 stories and 1,066 feet, developer JDS Development Group and designer SHoP Architects announced in advance of a hard-hat tour today.

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Williamsburg Row House With Wide Plank Floors, Renovated Kitchen, Darkroom Asks $3.5 Million

This Williamsburg three-family still shows evidence of its mid 19th century roots with wide planked floor boards, a period newel post and bits of plaster detailing amidst more modern interior renovations.

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Bed Stuy Neo-Grec With Wood Floors, Mantels, Renovated Kitchen Asks $1.95 Million

This single-family brownstone in Bed Stuy offers some original details along with a renovated kitchen and baths. At 967 Greene Avenue, the two-story Neo-Grec dates to the 1880s. The two-story plus basement house includes the typical Neo-Grec exterior features of the period, including lintels ornamented with incised details and a fluting on the door surround.

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Candy Chutes and Clever Costumes Bring Spirit to a Brooklyn Halloween

The sidewalks of some Brooklyn neighborhoods saw the return of swarms of candy seekers as costumed revelers took advantage of the crisp fall day to enjoy a return to Halloween traditions.

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• Top 5 Stories on Brownstoner This Week: Graceful Arches Transform a Fort Greene Townhouse

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