Creative Structures Services (CSS) has wrapped-up conversion of a historic Buffalo library into luxury apartments and is diving into a similar project on Kenmore Avenue. The general contracting, project management and development firm headed by David Pawlik and Russell Kyte transformed the former Fairfield Library at 1659 Amherst Street into five apartments and a small amount of office space.
The Fairfield Library had been vacant and neglected since 2005. The library was designed by William Sydney Wicks for the Unitarian Universalist Church. It was built in 1897 and was also occupied later by another congregation before being taken over by the City for a branch Library in the 1920s.
Today, the building’s five apartments are fully occupied and there’s a waiting list for availabilities. The one and two-bedroom apartments range in size from 510 sq.ft. to 1,150 sq.ft. Three of the units have two levels.
“We’re really excited about how it came out,” says Pawlik. “We’ve had neighbors tell us how pleased they are with the renovation.”
The apartments which rent for between $800 and $1000 feature granite counters, energy star appliances, ample closet space and hardwood floors in the main living areas. On-site parking is provided.
“The historic fabric of the building was incorporated into the units,” says Pawlik. “It was a challenge but it was a good challenge.”
CSS is both a general contractor and developer. The firm has carved a niche in North Buffalo converting historic buildings into residential and office space.
Several years ago they rehabbed a former church at 700 Parkside Avenue into The Lofts at Warwick, a dozen high-end apartments and 5,500 sq.ft. of office space. The company recently started work on KLP Commons that will see the Buffalo Covenant Church at 786 Kenmore Avenue turned into 13 apartments.
Pawlik sees unlimited potential in North Buffalo and is constantly on the hunt for new projects. He’s currently looking at reuse options for a vacant school property.
“I’m not as focused on the inner core of the city, others are doing a great job with that,” says Pawlik.
KLP Commons will be completed this fall.
Get Connected: Creative Structures Services, 716.882.1226; Fairfield Commons Information, 716.675.3000
