Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the completion of a new $6 million visitor center at the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Graycliff estate in Derby. The 4,400-square-foot facility is intended to provide year-round programming, events, and amenities, in tandem with the recently renovated historic home and grounds.
The new visitor center project – managed by LeChase Construction – was made possible thanks to $1.25 million from the New York State Council on the Arts, $1 million from Empire State Development, more than $1 million from the New York Power Authority, and $550,000 allocated by the office of then-State Senator Sean M. Ryan.
Built between 1927 and 1931, the 8.5-acre property at 6472 Old Lakeshore Road is now restored to its 1930s appearance.
“Frank Lloyd Wright’s genius brought beauty and grandeur to Buffalo and Western New York in the early 20th century. With the completion of multiple restoration projects and the addition of a visitor center, that legacy is preserved for the 21st Century and beyond,” Governor Hochul said. “Buffalo and Western New York is known as one of the top regions in the world for its premier architecture and Graycliff is one of those gems — I encourage everyone to visit Graycliff and learn more about this magnificent Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece.”
Graycliff is currently celebrating a century milestone since it was constructed, which makes the addition of the new visitor center even more significant.
- Expanded gift shop with grab-and-go coffee area
- Improved visitor amenities including expanded restroom facilities
- Light-filled open space offering views of the historic houses for workshops, lectures, and educational programs, as well as private rental opportunities
- Integrated technology enhancing historical interpretation and accessibility
- Administrative offices with dedicated space for volunteers
Graycliff Executive Director Anna Kaplan said, “This project was absolutely critical to Graycliff’s future. We can now welcome visitors year-round with proper amenities, expand our educational mission, and create sustainable revenue streams that will support preservation for generations to come. This visitor center fundamentally transforms what we can offer and ensures this architectural treasure remains accessible and vibrant for the next hundred years.”
Additional anticipated development phases at Graycliff include restoring the historic orchard and vegetable gardens, as well as installing landscape pathways.
Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Graycliff Visitor Center immerses guests in the architectural history of one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most stunning designs. Governor Hochul is a strong supporter of heritage tourism because she has seen firsthand how projects like Graycliff act as a significant economic driver. Visitors to historic sites support local dining, lodging, and retail, creating jobs and fostering community pride.”
^ Photographs of the Graycliff Estate restoration project
Graycliff Conservancy Board President Charles LeFevre said, “This has been years in the making, and I can hardly believe we’re finally here. The commitment of our community, our funders, and our team never wavered, even when challenges mounted. This visitor center isn’t just a building – it’s proof of what’s possible when people come together around a shared vision for Graycliff’s future.”
City of Buffalo Mayor Sean M. Ryan said, “Graycliff is one of Western New York’s most remarkable architectural landmarks, and I was proud to secure $550,000 as a state senator to help close the funding gap and move the visitor center toward construction. Investments like this strengthen our region’s growing architectural tourism economy while preserving the places that define our shared history and identity. The new visitor center will allow Graycliff to welcome more guests year-round, expand educational programming, and continue drawing people from around the world to experience Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy here in Western New York.”
To experience Graycliff in its fully restored glory and to reserve your place on a tour, visit www.experiencegraycliff.org or call (716) 947-9217.