Non-Conforming and Non-Complying in NYC
Hamoun Niknejad2026-04-01T04:29:32+00:00When you start any project like renovation, enlargement, legalization, or a change of use project, zoning can be the most complicated part of it. Many owners assume that if a building has existed for years, it’s confirmation to have it the same as before, even after alteration or modification.There are two zoning terminologies, non-conforming and non-complying, that you need to be aware of before starting any project, especially in New York City. They sound similar, and people sometimes use them...
New York City Occupancy Group
Hamoun Niknejad2026-04-01T15:27:33+00:00When people talk about New York City building rules, one of the terms that comes up often is occupancy group classification. This is a basic but very important part of the NYC Building Code because it helps determine how a building or space is classified based on its main use.In simple words, the NYC Department of Buildings uses occupancy groups to organize buildings and interior spaces according to how they function. That classification affects many parts of a project, including...
Minimum Room Size
Hamoun Niknejad2026-04-01T15:27:14+00:00When planning or reviewing a residential layout in New York City, one of the basic code questions is whether the rooms meet the minimum legal size and width requirements. These rules matter more than many people think. A room may look acceptable on paper, but if it does not meet the minimum dimensions required by the NYC Building Code, it can create problems during design review, filing, renovation, legalization, or construction.For architects, interior designers, property owners, and developers, understanding these...
What is a kitchenette vs kitchen?
Hamoun Niknejad2026-03-12T20:38:51+00:00If you’ve ever looked at a NYC listing and thought, “Wait… what’s the difference between a kitchen and a kitchenette?” — you’re not alone. Real estate ads throw these words around like they mean the same thing. And sometimes, even on drawings, people label a space “kitchen” when it’s really closer to a kitchenette.But when you’re renovating, filing with the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB), or developing small apartments, the wording and the layout can matter. Not because