Cobblestone Lofts: The Work Begins
As announced, Avalon Development and Savarino Construction have started work converting the former BenLin Warehouse complex into Cobblestone Lofts. The property is located at the corner of Perry and Mississippi Street behind HSBC Arena. Phase one involves renovation of a four-story midblock building into 18,000 sq.ft. of office space. Savarino Construction will be moving its headquarters into two floors of the structure.
The centerpiece of the project, the renovation of the five-story corner building into 36 condominiums, will begin in June. The one and two-bedroom units will be priced in the $150,000 to $250,000 range. Units will feature balconies, exposed concrete brick accent walls, exposed ductwork, polished concrete floors, gas fireplaces, hardwood floors in the kitchen, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Indoor and secured parking will be available. 20,000 sq.ft. of retail space is also planned.
The renovation of the 1930's era complex represents a $15 million investment in the future of Buffalo. This is the second Cobblestone District residential project. The Lofts @ Elk Terminal, the pioneering 72-loft project by First Amherst Development, has plans for an additional 48 units.
Photos courtesy of Rue B.
Another example of the "Just do it " developers that have finaly found a place in Buffalo. Now we just need to get thos massive parking lots filled in.
great to see movement on project. Can we keep elected officials out of area and let developers lead the way. Rather than quick fix stupid projects...like casino...we should see retail and additional housing projects soon.
those parling lots will be tough to fill in....you've got to convince the owners that whatever goes in there is more profitable than 40 nights a year, packed with $9/car lots
Note: This is the lot the Seneca Nation is negotiating with the Sabres to purchase. Reported asking price: $20 million. Use: One giant parking ramp.
What a shame it would be to see the cobblestone district dedicated for auto storage for the next several decades. If the Indians get their way, that is what will happen.
The cobblestone district is a shovel ready neighborhood waiting to happen. It has new streetlamps, new sidewalks, restored cobble streets, and close proximity to downtown.
The city owns title to the land. It will take leadership to change its current use.
Since the article does not do so, I would like the public to know that the project is being designed the the Buffalo Architectural, Engineering and Interior Design Firm of Carmina & Wood, P.C. located at 487 Main Street.
See what happens when Chris Jacobs digs into the family's jewels?
Though I hate to put myself in the position of a cynic, I notice that this project has actually *added* to the already overly-abundant off-street parking through the demolition of usable buildings, pictured here. I guess we can't ask for everything!
Guys, parking is key for this project and since they dont own and cant lease the lot next door, they mus create parking. If people are paying 250k for condos, they arent going to park on the street.
I certainly hope we don't have to continue knocking out half of every block downtown every time something gets renovated.
And by the way, the city owns that parking lot and leases it to the Sabres. Don't they already have a ramp? Why does the City allow so much land to be devoted to a parking lot that isn't even filled to capacity during special events, even as parts of a historic district are allowed to tumble because of a "lack" of parking?
Response to Joe
Parking is absolutely required for this kind of downtown living. These will be condominium units and the owners need dedicated and secure parking. The parking areas will be creatively gated and landscaped unlike the parking lots across Mississippi. There will still be a necessity for visitor parking on street. Hope this helps.
I hope when they say 20,000 sq. ft of Retail Space, that it does'nt mean Restaurant Space. Let's get unique retailers in this area as it grows to a new residential and entertainment district.
Just look at industrial communities like Williamsburg, Brooklyn and Long Island City, Queens. It could happen here in Buffalo's Cobblestone District too.
Nice job. I'm planning to come back here in the future.
What a great investment guys. This area is currently deserted and needs some life 24/7. Can't wait to see the final results. I hope this spurs other developments on the surface lots surrounding this block.