Those of us overly familiar with Niagara Street, near Rich Products, might have noticed a recent scheduled demolition that helped to expose the entire facade of the semi-hidden Agway Warehouse (1100 Niagara Street). The outlying structures that were demolished were not part of the original 1880s-90s structure, rather they were 1920s add-ons that essentially took away from aesthetic grandeur of the Agway.
The removal of the front and side building components followed a court-ordered demolition of the failing superfluous structures. The removal has revealed a much better view of the original circa 1890 Curtiss Malting building – both front (above) and south (below) sides.
Preservation architect Anthony James submitted the first phase of historic tax credit filings, which SHPO (State Historic Preservation Office) reacted well to. “No formal plans are in place at the moment,” says building owner Giles Kavanagh. “I’m committed to completing the project, which will be a public, not residential, space. The glory of the interior will be preserved and I hope to make it a place of pride architecturally for Buffalonians.”
In a perfect world, I asked Giles, what he envisions for the building? “The main hall will be a huge, gorgeous events space. Maybe wine bar in basement, with gallery cum receptions area in the front, water facing rooms. Roof is crying out for open air access.”
As Niagara Street undergoes crucial infrastructure improvements in coming months, this building will be a key factor in the redevelopment of the street. The interior is stunning and full of potential, with exquisite views onto the Niagara River (and the thruway unfortunately). It’s close proximity to Resurgence Brewery, Rich Products, and a series of new developments (including Busti and 1088), bodes well for the building’s future.
^ View onto the Niagara River
v View from the Niagara Thruway