
Darra Kubera, Carmina Wood Morris, DPC
In Buffalo, our historic architecture speaks to the growth of our industries, the impact it has had on our residential stock, and the resurgence currently taking place. The opportunity to resurrect culture in a current time of growth and confidence in our city sets preservation as a top priority.
Throughout Carmina Wood Morris, DPC (CWM)’s fifteen years as an AEI firm, they have completed numerous historic preservation projects. From rehabilitating the Louise Bethune designed Hotel at Lafayette in 2012, completing the reconstruction of the 1888 Webb Building into 32 loft apartments and a day care center, creating lofts at the Lafayette Ave. Presbyterian Church in 2014 that allowed the church to maintain its structure as well as its community service, to bringing back life to an abandoned daylight factory building at the Bethune Lofts; these are just a few of the many projects that have propelled the firm to become known as historic preservation specialists.
The Preservation League of New York State has even recognized the firm with an “Excellence in Historic Preservation” Award for five projects- 10 Lafayette (The Tishman Building), Remington Lofts on the Canal, LAPC Lofts, Hotel at Lafayette, and the Webb Lofts. CWM is currently continuing their work in restoring Buffalo with the Phoenix Brewery Lofts project, ‘The Crescendo’ at 1502 Niagara, and the Bosche Building at 918 Main St.
With the right team in place, you can likely find a solution that manages all interests and results in the project being created. The Historic Tax Credit programs at the State and Federal level are to thank for the restoration of major commercial buildings. It is important to maintain these tax credits, as many historic projects are being completed by individuals who are investing without much help. The passion and commitment that many have for preserving our region’s buildings is irreplaceable and the rebirth of our city hinges on our ability to support these individuals.
Carmina Wood Morris has developed a distinct reputation for their design and technical skills. The principals of CWM: Steven Carmina, AIA; R. Christopher Wood, PE; Jonathan Morris, AIA; Pamela Timby-Straitiff, CID IIDA; and Michael Bray, AIA; credit the success of their firm to the attention to detail, aesthetics, and service given to each project and client. They are a dynamic team collaborating to achieve innovative solutions, grounded in core values, respected in their profession and community. For more information on the firm, visit www.cwm-ae.com .
Darra Kubera is the marketing coordinator of Carmina Wood Morris, DPC, Buffalo, N.Y.