Ellicott Development and Local Boys Restaurant Group are proposing to replace the Elmwood-Delavan Food Mart with a four-story mixed-use building. It will be anchored by a restaurant operated by Henry Gorino, additional retail space, and 21 apartments. Kideney Architects P.C., formed in 1926 making it the oldest architectural design firm in Buffalo, passed along these notes on their proposed design which was generally well received by Buffalo Rising commenters:
• 905elmwood exemplifies the new leadership of Kideney Architects’ passion and commitment to the growth and revitalization of the city, built upon an 88yr foundation of architecture in and around Buffalo.
• 905elmwood aligns with Buffalo’s Green Code, supporting walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods and strengthening economic centers. The building will fill a void along the Elmwood strip and hold an urban edge at a busy intersection.
• The design utilizes traditional materials and follows the Elmwood Village design standards, within a contemporary language and detailing. The material changes are deliberate; both to breakdown the building mass and relate to the program within. Expanse glass curtain wall is used in the more open and public spaces, and brick masonry with smaller punched openings conceal private living spaces beyond.
• A vertical wood screen provides solar control and/or a slight visual buffer to the recessed residential patios. The height of the building steps down from four to three stories as it abuts its residential neighbors on both Elmwood and Delevan. Parking is concealed behind the facility, accessed only off of Delavan Ave.
• A second floor space of the restaurant is becoming the calling card of the facility. Dubbed the “jewel box” it is an architectural feature in the Elmwood elevation, and offers open or enclosed dining space as well as a place to host private parties/events.
• The project and the architecture ultimately want to strike the right balance of being a good neighbor and setting a tone for development in this rooted yet progressive and vibrant community.