Buildings located in specific districts within Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan that were used as manufacturing and/or commercial spaces can be converted into what is called “artist lofts”, these general residential spaces can be used as dwelling places under modified rules.
The Multiple Dwelling Law, Article 7B, more commonly known as the “Loft Law” governs these legal conversions. Residents of these dwelling places also needs certification as artist from the New York City Department of Consumer Affair before they can use the space as joint living-work quarter.
Here are some of the basics governing these types of conversion.
Site safety, structural standards, exits, heights and area limitations, fire protection and accessibility are governed by the New York City Construction Codes, while the NYC Zoning Resolutions dictates the community districts where these conversions are permitted as well as the regulations for use, bulk and regulations of application for modifications since artists lofts have additional restrictions.
It should also be noted that these conversions, ultimately requiring a change in the building’s use will also activate full compliance with the Energy Conservation Code for the spaces that will be converted and the whole building’s system as well. Efficiency levels for the building envelope, cooling/heating systems, lighting systems and the likes will need to meet required levels.
This is just an overview of the required parameters for these types of conversion, there maybe additional requirements in terms of zoning, construction code compliance, energy code, and other law compliance.