By Giovanni Centurione:
Add this to the list of exciting things to come in downtown - 'The Shop's at Buffalo Commons'. Located on the 500 block of Main Street (523 Main St.) this particular building has been posted on BR not too long ago for a similar project (Cornucopia). After reworking some of the occupancy formulas, the spaces are available again and this time, I believe everyone is about ready to see retail return to Main Street.
Buffalo Commons is a redeveloped building, thanks to local developer, Roger Trettel. The first floor is what we are primarily focusing on (the upper levels are still shared office space). The floor is designed with small storefronts (ranging from 12x12 - 12x15), each with a window and door, lighting, heat and Wi-Fi included. The lobby area includes; public restrooms, lounge area and an entrance/exit on both Main and Washington Streets.
After Roger showed me the place last month, and knowing of what else was happening on this block, I immediately knew that NOW is the time to bring in retailers!
Twelve spaces total, and the Main Street entrance space is currently occupied by local photographer Brian Garman who will remain, and who is looking forward to sharing the building with retailers. His work can be seen throughout the lobby walls.
Right now, our goal is to open May 1st of this year, but we are still looking for more businesses to fill the remaining spaces. The reason? To make this a true 'destination'. The concept is to have a variety of vendors; clothing (hip, trendy and vintage), jewelry, shoes, hats, beauty supplies, home decor, a spa, winery and others. Weekly events will be planned as well, focused on promoting local fashion/designers, fundraisers and work within the Main St. Studio (located two doors down). Brian's Gallery will be featured during art shows, block parties, and more. The entire space will be an indoor, year 'round market for individual vendors to share one large space. Each space is yours/theirs to have a storefront with a lobby showcasing additional room for displays and shows. The concept is to have all vendors working together under one roof.
Already on-board: e Cafe' will serve coffee, espresso, and sandwiches. Owner, Shawn Shearer says, "Food will be prepared from their Main @ Washington St. location and brought in every morning and will be a cross-promotion for both locations. There will be a few tables and chairs in the lobby for guests to relax and enjoy." Also, we have Lunar Clothing. a company that will be selling exclusive locally made t-shirts. Also two potential local retailers are interested in expanding here. (Stay tuned).
Planned hours so far will be Mon-Friday 11am-7pm (to attract the lunch and after-work crowds) and Saturday 10-5pm (but can change depending on the demand and flexibility of those operating inside).
By the time of the Grand Opening we will have new signage on the building, possibly awnings and planters on both Main & Washington Streets to lure foot traffic inside. And of course free parking on Washington Street after 5pm weekdays and all day on the weekends. Also planned (as we all know) is the return of auto traffic soon to this block of Main Street!
If you are interested in being a part of this amazing opportunity on an exciting new block, please contact me before the space fills up. All interested parties must have a business license and insurance. Rent ranges from $400-$500 and includes all utilities. I'm available during the week to give tours, and anytime to answer your questions.
This site is near to the Metro Rail, is visible from The Hyatt, the Electric Tower, Fountain Plaza (Rotary Rink), and is in close proximity to Genesee Gateway, Chippewa, Market Arcade.
Awesome. Looks great I'll have to check it out.