Areaway

Areaway An areaway is a sunken area, often found in urban environments, that provides access, light, and ventilation to a building's basement or cellar. Areaways are typically located at the front or side of a building and are often enclosed by a railing or fence for safety. They are a common architectural feature in many older cities, particularly in brownstone and row house neighborhoods.

Design and Function

Areaways serve several important functions:

• Access: They provide a secondary entrance to the basement, which can be used for deliveries, maintenance, or as an emergency exit.
• Light: By allowing natural light to enter the basement, areaways help to reduce the need for artificial lighting and improve the overall ambiance of the space.
• Ventilation: Areaways facilitate air circulation, which helps to prevent dampness and mold growth in the basement.

Construction

Areaways are typically constructed from durable materials such as brick, stone, or concrete. They may include steps leading down to a basement door, and the floor of the areaway is often paved to ensure proper drainage. Some areaways are covered with grating to allow light and air to pass through while preventing debris from accumulating.

Safety Considerations

Safety is a critical concern for areaways. Properly designed areaways should include:

• Railings: To prevent falls, railings or fences should be installed around the perimeter of the areaway.
• Drainage: Effective drainage systems are essential to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to flooding and structural damage.
• Lighting: Adequate lighting is important for visibility and safety, especially in the evening or during inclement weather.

Historical Significance

Areaways have historical significance in many urban areas. They are often associated with Victorian architecture and can be found in historic districts. Preservation of areaways is important for maintaining the architectural integrity and historical character of these neighborhoods.

Related Architectural Features

• Light well
• Window well
• Basement
• Cellar door
• Egress window

See Also

• Brownstone
• Row house
• Victorian architecture
• Basement
• Light well
• Window well