Community Center

The City of Buffalo faced a challenge: how to transform an outdated office building into a vibrant, inclusive Community Center that meets the needs of residents of all ages and abilities. The existing structure lacked accessibility features and flexible spaces, limiting its potential to serve as a true community hub.

To address this, the city partnered with Bolton & Menk to reimagine the building’s purpose and functionality. Our design team began by actively listening to stakeholders to understand their goals and priorities. We developed creative, cost-effective solutions that emphasized accessibility, inclusivity, and multi-use flexibility. Early design concepts explored the strategic placement of a new elevator to meet ADA requirements, while maximizing the adaptability of each space to support a wide range of community activities. Throughout the process, we collaborated closely with H+U Construction, who provided real-time budget management to ensure the project remained financially viable.

As a result of this partnership, the City of Buffalo began construction in fall 2025 on a Community Center that reflects the values and needs of its residents. The renovated facility will offer a welcoming, functional environment that fosters connection, engagement, and opportunity for all members of the community.