New York Consolidated Laws, Multiple Dwelling Law - MDW § 175. Alcoves

1. Every alcove, except a cooking space or foyer, shall be deemed a living room and shall open into an immediately adjoining living room which opens directly on a yard or street and in buildings not over two stories in height, such living room may open directly on an outer court or on a court, not less than four feet in width, extending from street to yard. Such an alcove shall be separately lighted and ventilated, and of such size as provided for other living rooms, unless it has an opening at least thirty-two and one-half square feet or more in area opening into a living room immediately adjoining.

2. No part of any room shall be enclosed or subdivided at any time, wholly or in part, by a curtain, portiere, fixed or movable partition or any other device unless each enclosed or subdivided part meets all of the requirements for a separate living room or a lawful alcove.