Iskalo Development’s renovation of the former Howard Shoes building at 5 East Huron Street is in full swing. The developer is currently looking for a retail or restaurant tenant for the one-story, 4,500 sq.ft. building.
Located at the corner of E. Huron and Washington streets, the building was constructed in 1946 as a Waldorf Lunch, a popular restaurant at the time which had 75 locations throughout the northeast. The building later became home to Howard Shoes which it remained for many years until the venerable shoe store closed a few years ago. Iskalo acquired the building in 2006.
“We see the building going back to its roots as a restaurant or lounge though its distinctive presence and great visibility would make it an outstanding retail location,” stated Paul B. Iskalo, President and CEO of Iskalo Development.
The building is located across the street from Electric Tower, the former Niagara Mohawk Building that the developer renovated for multi-tenant use. The property is one block from Main Street, the Hyatt, and Fountain Plaza office buildings. New residential developments including Holling Place, Ellicott Lofts, Ellicott Commons, IS Lofts, Oak School Lofts, Buehl Block and The Belesario are also nearby.
“With last summer’s re-opening of the Electric Tower and downtown’s continued resurgence, the timing seemed right to give the building a new chance at life,” says Iskalo. “We’re actively soliciting interest and are optimistic someone will come forward soon with a great use for the building.”
Upon its completion around Memorial Day, the shell of the building will have been restored including its distinctive terra cotta façade, new storefront windows, building signage and exterior architectural lighting. The interior of the building, with its highly distinctive terrazzo floors and ornate aquatic-themed wall frescos intact, will be finished to the needs of the tenant. Parking is available after 5:00 pm at the Electric Tower lot.
Iskalo Development Corp. is a full-service real estate investment and development company headquartered in Williamsville specializing in corporate and medical office, light industrial, retail, and mixed use projects located throughout Western New York.
Get connected: Iskalo Development, 716.633.2096
