(BIM Engineer)
Deborah Berke Partners revitalized the central section of the nationally recognized Richardson Olmsted Campus by transforming it into a boutique hotel known as the Henry Hotel. This project honors the historic building originally designed by Henry Hobson Richardson and embraces its rich history. Formerly the Buffalo Asylum, the building had long been abandoned before this BIM architecture project breathed new life into it, contributing significantly to Buffalo’s urban renewal efforts and reinforcing the city’s ambition to become a prominent design hub in the United States.
The newly added glass and steel entrance acts as a striking beacon, seamlessly connecting the surrounding landscape with the concealed parking areas. By night, strategically placed lighting transforms the entrance into a glowing lantern, while illuminated towers make the building visible from afar. This entrance features a light, transparent architectural style that contrasts sharply with Richardson’s traditional brick and stone facade, introducing a distinctly modern element to the historic structure.
Inside, the grandeur and scale of Richardson’s original design have been carefully preserved. Sensitive modifications, including selective additions and removals, were made to accommodate the building’s new function. The hotel lobby now houses a food market and mobile furniture to allow for flexible use, alongside a restored staircase that maintains a connection to the building’s heritage.
This 191,000 square foot (17,745 square meter) project features 88 guest rooms, conference facilities, a fine dining restaurant, and a convenient coffee bar. The original small wards were combined and transformed into modern, comfortable guest rooms, while the wide, well-lit corridors were retained. To accommodate bathrooms within guest rooms, wall protrusions resembling built-in cabinets have been thoughtfully integrated into the corridors. The custom carpets in cool gray and green tones with abstract patterns subtly evoke the natural scenery inspired by Olmsted’s landscape designs.
Each guest room includes a niche that serves as a dressing area, complete with a mobile work desk. The furniture throughout the rooms is spacious and understated, highlighting the building’s architectural scale and character. Above the headboards, custom soundproof panels feature Richardson’s original design motifs, while local Buffalo artists have contributed unique elements that add regional character to the spaces.
On the top floor, large loft-style suites boast high, open, sloping ceilings with exposed beams, revealing the building’s internal structure and emphasizing its historic industrial charm.
Design Drawings:
▲ General Layout Plan
▲ General Layout Plan
▲ Third Floor Plan
▲ Fourth Floor Plan
▲ First Floor Plan of the Main Building
▲ Third Floor Plan of the Main Building
▲ Fourth Floor Plan of the Main Building
▲ Sectional Drawing of the Main Building
Project Information:
Architect: Deborah Berke Partners
Location: Buffalo, New York, USA
Category: Additional Projects
Lead Architects: Stephen Brockman, John Midgette
Design Team: Gunnar Burke
Architect: Flynn Battaglia
Historic Building Conservation Consultant: Goody Clancy
Landscape Architect: Andropogon
Building Area: 191,000 square feet (17,745 square meters)
Project Year: 2017
Photographer: Christopher Payne
Suppliers: Armstrong, Tubelite, Autodesk, Durkan Carpet, Porcelanosa Grupo, Signature
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