By Bronwen Battaglia
I never imagined that we'd be covering a laundromat. Then again, I never could have imagined one as spectacular as the new Lake Effect Laundromat on Main Street. The idea for this luxury launderette has been brewing with owner Matt O'Connor for years. From ambiance, amenities, and state-of-the-art technology, he has thought of every detail and puts a fresh spin on the chore of laundry by creating a relaxing atmosphere with comforts of home.
As patrons enter, automatic frosted glass doors ease the burden of lugging a heavy basket of clothes and make the Laundromat wheelchair accessible. An Arts and Crafts palette of nine colors was used to create a soothing environment. Framed prints by Buffalo artists Michael Morgulis and John Fliss adorn the walls, as do flat-screen TVs. Seating includes upholstered sofas and armchairs. Patrons can also relax in the sound-proof fireplace lounge which is a hot bed of technology offering two Internet stations, free wireless access, and twelve simultaneous television channels broadcast on a grid of TVs. Technology isn't limited to the adult patrons - a gated children's play area offers video games and toys. Other features are separate men's and women's bathrooms, an ATM, security cameras, and on-site presence of managers Terry and Adam.
Then there are aromas of freshly brewed Spot coffee and other locally-made treats. The Laundromat's Bistro offers a selection of Spot's signature drinks, Butterwood desserts, Bijou's salads & wraps, and Gramma Mora's burritos, all at under $5. Patrons may enjoy these treats on bar stools at the window or at a table in the awning-covered snack area that houses drink and candy vending machines.
And finally, the laundry accoutrements/There are over 80 sleek coin-less washers and dryers operated with rechargeable Easy Cards. Some washers have capacities up to 80 pounds for bulky comforters. There's a detergent vending machine, a sink with a stain station, and wide tables for folding clothes.
The Laundromat offers shoe repair, dry-cleaning drop-off, and wash-n-fold services. They have plans to host special events such as Rock & Roll Nights, Football Days, Wednesday College Pizza Nights, and Soap Opera Days. Matt says that in addition to apartment renters and college students, they will satisfy another niche market - the Yuppie or homemaker who wants freedom from hours of laundry. Patrons can get a week's worth of clothes done in about an hour while lounging, sipping coffee, watching TV, or going online. For serious multi-taskers, car vacuum cleaners in the large rear parking lot allow patrons to clean their cars while their laundry is cycling.
The Laundromat's location between Sister's Hospital and the Tri-Main Center is sure to boost this strip of Main Street anchored by the nearby headquarters of Greater Buffalo Savings Bank.
As the ultimate testimonial, owner Matt even does his own laundry here. Come down and take Lake Effect Laundromat for a spin.
The Lake Effect Laundromat | 2311 Main Street 716.832.5200 | Open 7 days 7am - 10pm