Goody Clancy

Richardson Olmsted Complex Historic Structures Report
Buffalo, New York

This complex comprises the National Historic Landmark designated buildings and grounds of the former Buffalo Psychiatric Center. The original buildings were designed by the famous American architect H.H. Richardson and built in the late 19th century, while the grounds were landscaped by Frederick Law Olmsted, widely known for his design of Central Park in New York City. Goody Clancy’s work leading the development of this Historic Structures Report extended our experience of working with prominent Richardson-designed buildings such as Trinity Church in Boston and Sever Hall and Austin Hall at Harvard University. The project involved in-depth historical research into the chronological evolution of the site, identification of significant character-defining features, exterior and interior existing conditions surveys, and recommendations for treatment of building features, materials and structure. A companion Cultural Landscape Report was initiated by Goody Clancy and completed by its consultant firm Heritage Landscapes as part of this project.

Relevant Project Information:

• HSR covered 100 acres of site area, 8 primary buildings and 4 ancillary buildings with an overview of nearly two-dozen other site structures.
• It involved comprehensive historical research into the evolution of 19th century asylums for the mentally-ill in America, and especially the ‘Kirkbride’ Plan typology.
• The project brought about a holistic appreciation for the complex—including its landscape and site buildings.
• It led to specific treatment recommendations for rehabilitating the building while preserving its varied character-defining features.

Sustainable Design:

• Laid out a preservation framework for the potential reuse of existing buildings.