Is it possible to replace a sloped roof with a terrace (Brownstone, R6B Zoning)?

We are about to close on a 4 story brownstone, and I am wondering if it is possible to convert part of the 4th floor to a terrace. The building looks like a 3 story from the street, but there are 4 floors with the top floor ceiling sloping down to the top of the third floor on the front of the building. We would like to create a wall where the roof starts to slope and replace the rest of the floor with a rooftop terrace (facing the street). We will obviously have to consult an architect/contractor about the physical requirements, but I was wondering if anyone had any experience with this and knew whether it was possible in an R6B zoning district.

mofish

in Brownstoner Renovation 12 years and 3 months ago

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tododesign | 12 years and 3 months ago

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If you are looking for architect, we would be happy to meet with you and discuss your project. Call us at 917.622.2462\. www.tododesign.com

jcarch | 12 years and 3 months ago

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We’ve done a number of roof terraces, and you can absolutely do this.  The zoning’s definitely not a problem, as you’re not increasing the building height or bulk.  LPC would probably stop you, but you’re not in a landmarked district, so that’s not an issue. A few things to consider: First, how will this new section of flat roof under the terrace drain?  Many rowhouses with sloped roofs in the front have gutters and downspouts at the bottom of the sloped section of roofing.  You may be able to tie into that existing drainline.  But if there’s no drainage for the current roof, then you’ll need to run a roof drain line down through the house, into the cellar, where it can tie into the existing drain line that goes out to the street. Second, you’ll need a 42″ high guardrail around the terrace.  You may be able to use the existing walls to create a parapet, but if they’re not high enough you’ll need some new elements to keep things up to code. Third, are you sure you won’t adversely impact the existing rooms that sit behind the sloped roof?  If their floors extend under the slope, they’d lose some floor area when a vertical wall is built.   jcarch————————               James Cleary Architecture brownstoner.staging.wpengine.com/jamescleary

mofish | 12 years and 3 months ago

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It is not landmarked and the 4th floor is full height in the back and then slopes down towards the front of the building.

elbow | 12 years and 3 months ago

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It sounds like it could be done.   I have no idea what it would cost.  Does the fourth floor have a full height ceiling at the back of the house?  You’re not in a landmarked area are you?