Construction is steadily advancing on a multi-building commercial development along Seneca Street on the eastern edge of Buffalo’s Larkin District, signaling continued reinvestment in one of the city’s most active mixed-use corridors. Four of the six planned two-story buildings are now in various stages of construction on formerly vacant parcels at 935 and 945 Seneca Street and 936 and 966 Exchange Street, just east of Smith Street.
The project is being led by Anchor Property Development, an affiliate of Buffalo Bungalow, and is designed to introduce flexible, small-scale commercial spaces that align with the character and evolving needs of the surrounding neighborhood. Once completed, the development will add new retail and service-oriented uses that support both local residents and the growing daytime population associated with nearby offices, light industrial spaces, and residential developments in the Larkin District.
Each of the six buildings contains approximately 1,008 square feet of interior space and has been designed to accommodate a potential mezzanine loft, providing tenants with additional usable square footage if needed. This adaptable layout allows the spaces to support a range of business types, from food and beverage concepts to personal services, creative offices, and specialty retail.
Site planning includes 15 shared parking spaces located behind the buildings, maintaining street-facing storefronts while preserving functionality for tenants and customers. The development team has emphasized pedestrian-oriented design, reinforcing the district’s walkable environment and strengthening connections between Seneca Street, Exchange Street, and nearby commercial nodes.
Tenant activity is already helping activate the corridor. Artigiana, an Italian bakery, has opened at 935 Seneca Street, bringing fresh food offerings and foot traffic to the area. Additional tenants have been announced, including 49 Coffee House and Eatery and Arrowhead Salon, both of which are expected to further diversify the mix of neighborhood-serving businesses once their spaces are completed and occupied.
The project was designed by Greenman-Pedersen Inc., with architectural elements that balance durability and contemporary aesthetics. Exterior materials include aluminum vertical siding, metal panel roofing, and wood-framed entrance canopies, creating a modern industrial look that complements the broader architectural language of the Larkin District.
As construction progresses on the remaining buildings, the Seneca Street project reflects continued confidence in Buffalo’s small-scale commercial development market. By transforming long-vacant lots into active storefronts, the development contributes to economic activity, supports local entrepreneurship, and reinforces the Larkin District’s role as a growing hub for business, dining, and community life.
Originally reported by Buffalo Rising.
