cellarbasement

A cellar or basement is a space in a building that is located partially or entirely below ground level. Cellars are typically found in older homes and can serve a variety of purposes. Basements are more common in modern construction and are often designed to be habitable spaces.

Historically, cellars were used for storage, particularly for food and wine, as the cool, dark environment helped preserve perishables. They could also house heating systems like coal furnaces or boilers, and were sometimes used for laundry facilities. The term "cellar" often evokes a sense of a rudimentary, unfinished space.

Basements, while also used for storage and utilities, are more frequently designed with the intention of being finished. This means they can be converted into additional living areas such as bedrooms, bathrooms, family rooms, or home offices. Insulation, flooring, and finished walls are common features of a finished basement. An unfinished basement, conversely, typically features exposed foundation walls, a concrete floor, and may contain plumbing or electrical systems that are not yet concealed.

Access to cellars and basements is usually provided by stairs from the main floor of the building. In some cases, especially with basements, an exterior entrance or bulkhead may also be present. The structural integrity of the building relies heavily on the foundation walls that enclose these subterranean spaces.