Project Site

Rehabilitation plans are moving forward for the Richardson Olmsted Complex (the former Buffalo State Asylum for the Insane), comprised of the H. H. Richardson-designed buildings and Frederick Law Olmsted-designed grounds.

The 91 acre rectangular site extends from Elmwood Avenue to Rees Street, and Rockwell Road to Forest Avenue. To date, approximately 40 acres and the historic buildings have been designated for this project; the Richardson Center Corporation is pursuing ownership of this area.  The remaining 41 acres will be retained by the Office of Mental Health, primarily for the Buffalo Psychiatric Center to carry out its mission of services to adults with mental illness.

The rehabilitation of the Richardson Complex and Olmsted grounds is a long term project that will require dedication and involvement for years.  The Master Plan is complete and provides guidance for near term and long term reuse plans.  A mixed use campus will start with a core set of integrated uses - Architecture Center, regional Visitor Center, boutique hotel and event/conference space – in the iconic towers administration building and two flanking former wards.