Buffalo River Landing represents the next chapter of an historic 2.25-acre site that once held the Erie Freight House, a circa 1860s warehouse from a pivotal period in Buffalo’s past. Abandoned for decades, the freight house fell into a state of disrepair that made its safe rehabilitation impossible. Buffalo River Landing kicks off a rebirth of the site that honors its historical significance. As part of the plans, the freight house’s brick foundation will remain and be visible from the water’s edge.
CJS Architects incorporated the look of nearby industrial sites into the new design. Two stair towers are sheathed with polycarbonate paneling and back-lit with LED lighting. The façade is a Coreten steel wall panel system with aluminum clad windows.
The five-story building is constructed of a hour-story wood stud bearing wall and open web truss system over a composite steel and concrete on metal deck podium. The podium covers secured ground floor parking for 67 vehicles and supports 64 one-bedroom and 14 two-bedroom units on the upper floors. A small amount of office space and a fitness center are located on the second floor. Set back from the water’s edge, the project includes public access along the riverfront including a kayak launch.
