Calendar of Events

January 25, 2022

 Laura Heim, FAIA LEED AP

With the recent flooding of cellar and basement apartments in NYC as a result of Ida, particularly in Queens, providing apartments in these spaces has become even more debated.  Located in a storefront office in Sunnyside, Laura Heim Architect has worked on numerous residential properties in Queens dealing with the issue of legal cellar/basement use. Her own office cellar has been impacted. While in concept, making existing illegal basement and cellar apartments up to code and safe could aid in alleviating the housing shortage, the reality is that there are numerous hurdles to accomplishing this goal while providing safe and healthy spaces.  This class will address the basic zoning and code restrictions which make the legalization of existing cellars and basements in many cases difficult and costly, if not impossible.  The high standards set by the building and zoning codes have evolved over time to protect the health and safety of New Yorkers. Join us as we delve into this complex issue facing NYC in detail.

$15 Friends of HDC / $25 General Admission