I grew up in the 'Burgh believing that EVERYBODY had a commode in the cellar.
(Sometimes it didn't work for one reason or another, but at least it was there.)
It wasn't until I was much older that I realized that this was a somewhat "unique" luxury that was popular in the region. Many other areas of the nation don't do it (as much) unless they've actually remodeled and "finished" their basement with perhaps a game room and a "powder room" (with an actual bathroom sink/mirror and maybe even a shower).
But a standalone commode next to the washing machine?
LOL! People look at me like I'm nutz when I mention that!
Here in VA (and probably lots of other places), you can't even do that free-standing commode thing - additional commodes must be in their own little room if they are not part of a bathroom. Found that out talking to our plumber.