Halfcellars
A half-cellar, also known as a semi-basement or partial basement, is a type of foundation commonly found in older homes, particularly in the northeastern United States and parts of Canada. Unlike a full basement that extends below ground level on all sides, a half-cellar is partially sunken into the earth, with one or two walls typically exposed above ground.
These foundations often feature stone, brick, or concrete block construction. The exposed section provides access for
The design of a half-cellar likely arose from a combination of factors, including cost-effectiveness and the
While once a common building practice, half-cellars are less frequently constructed in modern homes, with full