Not Just A Quick Fix
Ellicott Commons has landed its second official commercial tenant (Utilant - software provider was the first). The business is a salon and day-spa called Fix. When I first heard that a salon was moving in I was not too sure... but Rocco assured me that I would be impressed when I saw it. Unfortunately the floors were being finished today, so I couldn't get in to take a photo, though I did get a chance to peek inside. The 1000 sq.' space has frontage on Ellicott which is cool enough... but it's the glass indoor/outdoor hallway through the building that really shined. The interior of the spa space is being built-out using earth-friendly bamboo that looks bright, clean, and modern. The layout is somewhat narrow, which is fine because the entire operation will be viewable from the underpass… thus creating a voyeuristic experience for those walking by. The underpass alone is worth walking through just to be able to envision what this building will be like when it attracts additional (4000sq.' still available) tenants... it's really sweet. There's really nothing else like it in the city. (See this interesting view) (See work in progress)
I asked Rocco about the salon and he told me that it is his hope that this modern commercial business will act as a beacon to other entrepreneurs looking for space downtown. Since the build-out is so impressive (so far), the space acts as a functioning demo for more commercial tenants. The upscale look of the place definitely broadcasts to other prospective business owners the direction of the build-outs. Of course The Washington Market is just a few doors down and there are upscale apartments above… so a salon/spa will most likely be a good fit.
Rocco was our guest (myself and Mark Scott) at WBFO, and at one point I asked Rocco what he envisioned across the street at the massive M&T parking lot. He said that he thought a tall parking ramp with retail on the first floor would be perfect for half of the lot. He then added that the second half of the lot should be dedicated green space in order to attract people for such things as farmers' market, live music, or just a place to walk the dog.
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Dgard
Another small step for downtown! All of the recent retail activity is a positive sign that our downtown core is stable and slowly growing.
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GDC
This is a great location for a Spa. Here in NYC we have many spa's offering the "Quick Fix", a 20-30 minute Facial or other service for the typical officer worker in a hurry. I wonder if FIX is going to have simular for the Buffalo lunch crowd?
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Jay
Wow a park fronting genesee between wash. and ellicott would be amazing. Put apartments/condos on the other half and give them views of the park and you're all set.
Nice development with the salon. If downtown had a slightly larger retail/commercial base, I would move down in a heart beat.....redevelopment of the mandt lot would do it for me.
On an aside the market arcade theater and the tralf are two very cool, underutilized assets. I good to them all the time and love it....would love it better if i could cross the street and be in my kitchen.
Keep it moving!
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gluclose
I agree that a park in that location would be an excellent addition to downtown. Originally the Market Arcade building was designed as a gateway from Main St. to the Washington Market right where the M&T parking lot is now. It would be great if it were to become a gateway from the theatre district on Main St. to a park and more retail development along Washington and Ellicott.
Good Work.
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