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What Is an English Style Basement?

The English style basement is an architectural design where the basement's windows are partially above street level on at least one side and are located on the home's first floor. Often, the backyard is lower than street level and accessible through a door, while access from side streets requires using steps leading down to the basement. The design began in the United Kingdom, but eventually made it to the U.S. in the architecture of New York City's brownstone apartments. It has gained popularity among many young professionals who seek a more bohemian and eclectic style in their living quarters. "English style basement apartment" is a term also used to describe a brownstone that has this type of basement.

  1. Availability

    • Once only available in London, or older cities like New York City or Washington, D.C., English style basements are beginning to surface in brownstone apartment designs in many areas, including Maryland -- and even across the world in Tel Aviv, Israel. Trendy apartments on the East and West Coast are also picking up the design.

    Advantages

    • If you want stylish comfort, the English style basement apartment may provide the perfect living quarters. Easy to access, and more private than a massive apartment complex, the unique architecture is a definitive conversation starter. The placement of the windows provides more than adequate lighting and plenty of storage room or living space without the intrusion of tall windowsills.

      Older English style basement apartments were known to be cramped and mold ridden. This is no longer the case with modern remodeling and design changes. Today, more thought is given to living space needs and requirements, as well as health and safety issues. Many owners have installed air purification systems and dehumidifiers in their English style basement apartments to keep renters comfortable and lessen the chance of mold and mildew forming in the living quarters.

    Disadvantages

    • Because of the raised basement and windows, noise and dampness are two factors to consider. While remodeling is possible with insulation and soundproofing, it can be expensive. Dampness often leads to mold and can be a serious health problem if not handled properly. Basements are generally more humid than the rest of the home and mold will flourish if a humidification system is not implemented.

    New Developments

    • With improved technologies in the fields of insulating, soundproof glass and humidity control units, the English style basement apartment is becoming more of a choice in style without a sacrifice to sleep or health. Today's English style basement apartment designs offer far more in the way of comfort and practical living than when the style first became popular.

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Building Designs
  1. What Is a Non-Egress Basement?
  2. What Is a Federal Style Facade?
  3. What Is a Basement Header?
  4. What's a Non-Conforming Basement Bedroom?
  5. What Is a Walk-out Basement?
  6. What Is a Spanish Style House?
  7. What Is a Minimalist Style Chair?
  8. What Is Craftsman Style?
  9. What Is a Crawl Space Basement?
  10. What Is Drain Tile in a Basement?
  11. What Is an English Basement Apartment?
  12. What Is a Bi-Level Basement?

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