Uniland Development completes Avant: A mixed-use project in Buffalo; Architect was Steiglitz Snyder Architecture

Avant, located on 200 Delaware Ave., is the newest mixed-use project from Uniland Development Co. On July 8, the 150-suite Embassy Suites Buffalo opened without fanfare on the first seven floors of Avant. A grand opening celebration will be held in August. The hotel features a lap pool, fitness center, banquet facilities and four restaurants. The flagship restaurant, Della Terra, will feature Northern Italian cuisine, as well as an extensive wine list for lunch and dinner. "We have had a tremendous interest in reservations for the last several months. While our plans called for an easy opening, the hotel is nearly sold out for the next several weekends," said John Gurren, general manager. Local salon industry leader Capello will open a 1,500 s/f salon and spa at Avant later this summer, offering spa and pampering packages, as well as hair and spa services, to hotel guests and to Cappelo's dedicated downtown following. Last month, the law firm Damon & Morey became the first office tenant at Avant, moving into the 11th and 12th floors of the building. Condominiums are being sold on the top three floors, with 28 residences. "The first four residences we sold were over $1 million each. Two of our buyers to date have bought two residences and combined them, so we now have a community of 26 units," said Michael Montante, Uniland vice president. Nearly half those residences have been sold, he said. "We are looking forward to having our condominium model complete in mid-August," said Judi Griggs, Uniland spokesperson. "Our first residents will be closing on their new homes in early fall." A condominium showroom is open by appointment at Uniland's 285 Delaware office building. The challenge to reuse the former Dulski Federal Building and create a progressive architectural statement in the Central Business District was mastered by Steiglitz Snyder Architecture. The Steiglitz team has worked with Uniland for the past two years to assure the best possible hotel, office and residential experiences under Avant's shared roof. Avant began a commitment to sustainable design with the largest recycling project of clean materials in WNY history. Hundreds of tons of concrete, aluminum, glass and other materials were hauled away to create a core of steel frame and concrete floor. Each design and construction decision has been carefully considered for enduring environmental value. Months were taken to investigate the most environmentally appropriate and functional glass for the curtain wall system. The life cycle of the building and the livability for owners, tenants and guests are paramount to each decision made. Founded by Carl Montante, president, Uniland Development Company celebrates its 35th anniversary in WNY this year. Uniland has built more than 12 million s/f of property in the region, owning and managing approximately six million s/f. For more information, visit: www.uniland.com; www.embassysuitesbuffalo.com or www.avantbuffalo.com.