by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Apr 20, 2026 | Building Conversions, Brownstones & Townhouses, NYC DOB
In New York City, some of the most undervalued townhouses on the market are former SRO properties. While these buildings offer significant upside, converting them back to single-family homes requires careful coordination of legal, regulatory, and construction factors.... by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Jun 9, 2020 | NYC DOB, Apartment Renovations
The Special Tribeca Mixed Use District (TMU) has special rules governing the size and configuration of Lofts with regards to enlarging, extending, combining, and subdividing lofts. These rules will supersede the Zoning Codes of the Underlying District. Special... 
by Jorge Fontan | Last updated May 21, 2026 | NYC DOB, Construction Practices, General Architecture
A Certificate of Occupancy is one of the most important legal and technical documents for any building or home in New York City. The Certificate of Occupancy establishes how a building may be legally used, occupied, and configured under NYC Department of Buildings... by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Mar 15, 2026 | Bathroom Design, Apartment Renovations, NYC DOB
Bathroom renovations in NYC are far more regulated than most homeowners realize — and accessibility requirements can significantly influence layout, fixture placement, and overall design. New York City building codes are complex, even for seemingly straightforward... by Jorge Fontan | Last updated Mar 16, 2026 | Apartment Renovations, NYC DOB, Renovating
Renovating a kitchen in New York City often requires approvals from multiple parties. In addition to complying with the NYC Department of Buildings, homeowners in condominiums and co-ops must also follow their building’s alteration rules. Depending on the scope of... by Jorge Fontan | Last updated May 18, 2026 | NYC Zoning, New Home Design, NYC DOB
In New York City, residential zoning districts often require side yards or minimum open areas between buildings. On narrow properties, side yard requirements can significantly affect the width, layout, and overall feasibility of a new home or residential enlargement....