![Basement wall design to BS8110:1997, BS8002:1994. BS 8004:1986 etc. 1 Basement wall design to BS8110 1997 BS8002 1994. BS 8004 1986 etc.](https://excel.civilmdc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Basement-wall-design-to-BS8110-1997-BS8002-1994.-BS-8004-1986-etc..png)
A basement wall is thus one kind of retaining wall. But the term usually refers to a cantilever retaining wall, which is a freestanding structure without lateral support at its top. These are cantilevered from a footing and rise above the grade on one side to retain a higher level grade on the opposite side.