Press

The term porte-cochere comes from the French phrase meaning “carriage porch.” Throughout New York City, many buildings with these covered entrances date to the prewar era, when horse-drawn carriages were the primary mode of transportation. While automobiles long ago replaced horses, the porte-cochere has endured as a hallmark of luxury residential design.

Its continued popularity is notable at a time when New York City is actively reducing its dependence on cars through initiatives such as congestion pricing, expanded bike and bus infrastructure, and zoning reforms under former Mayor Eric Adams' City of Yes plan, which eliminated parking requirements for many new developments.

Even so, porte-cocheres remain a highly sought-after amenity in luxury residential buildings. Recent developments such as The Henry, 255 East 77th Street, and One Williamsburg Wharf all feature covered arrival courts or driveways that provide residents with a seamless transition from vehicle to home. Many porte cochere buildings also offer on-site parking garages, adding another layer of convenience.