The Hotel Lafayette, built in 1904 and designed by America’s first female architect, Louise Blanchard Bethune, has undergone a magnificent re-birth with credit going to developer Roco Termini, who had the vision of what could be, and Carmina Woods Architects, who had the talent and abilities to bring this Buffalo gem back to life.  Workers are dashing to finish the restoration work preparing for the grand opening at the end of April.  The craftsmanship reminds us all of the talents and abilities of proud workers from years gone by, now an almost lost art.  The process of determining the accurate colors and the wonder of finding clues from the past, makes this project sound like a wonderful, mystery tale.  A labor of love for Carmina Woods Morris Interior Designer and Villa Alum Lee Fustino, she led a private tour for Villa Maria faculty, friends and students.  I was awe struck by the magnificent attention to detail and incredibly proud of my former student.  To think there might have been a chance that this beautiful structure might never have shone again is truly sad.  This is yet another world class project that the city of Buffalo can be proud of.  Many of the original details were saved and those beyond repair were painstakingly replicated, from fireplaces, to floors, and from ceilings to chandeliers.  This is truly an experience to wander the hallways and venture into the ballrooms.  Murals were discovered under layers and today’s guests can feel the magic of yesteryear.  The wedding theme is a perfect fit for the hotel.  Set to offer floral, decor, bakery and other services, this is a destination location for any celebratory event.

Detailing on the windows is a classic fleur de lis design.  The multitude of unique spaces promise a destination location for everyone.  Many chandeliers were restored and others were well matched.  The ceilings are as beautiful to look at as the art work!

Lee did an excellent job leading the tour.  Here she stands by an example of scagliola which has been recently completed.  This was a very typical surface treatment in its era.  Another building that is rich with scagliola is the Shea’s Performing Arts Center. What will follow is a series of images from the visit.

The colors and pattern in the floors is created with these small mosaics that would have been laid individually. Original ironwork was located, and then served as a model for replacement in other areas of the hotel. The grand ballroom has unique detailing and is already reserved for many weddings and special events. Enjoying the tour is Interior Design Faculty member Paul Brinkworth and his wife Cindy.  In the background is Carmina Woods Morris Interior Designer and Villa Alum Todd Piotrowski, who also was integral in the hotel project.  To compliment the historic public spaces of the hotel are luxury hotel rooms, designed with a contemporary twist and a nod to history by Michael Poczkalski from Room.  Each room features a unique and authentic historical image, depicting Buffalo in its glory when it was the City of Light.  Fireplaces in the suites serve as dividers between a lounge area and the private sleeping quarters.  Congratulations has been deeply earned by a team of dedicated groups as well as individuals.  Bravo!