Inn Buffalo off Elmwood

I recently stayed at a chain hotel, and it reminded me of all the reasons I usually avoid them. First and foremost, it was just so beige, and without a shred of character. The same cannot be said for the Inn Buffalo, which is a lovely amalgamation of architectural styles that all work well together.

Dating to Buffalo’s heyday, the home was constructed in 1898 by local architects Lansing & Beierl, who incorporated elements of Arts & Crafts, Queen Anne, and Richardson Romanesque architecture in their design. Built for a man of means, inventor and businessman Herbert Hills Hewitt, no expense was spared for his home. It was not only visually stunning, with custom tilework and exotic woods, it incorporated all the latest technology, including electricity and central heating.

Like many mansions, time took a toll on the property. By 1943, the home was converted to a rooming house, a function it would serve for the next 50 years. Unlike so many other similar homes, many of its original features were kept intact, including the magnificent woodwork, tile, stained glass and duel source lighting fixtures.

In 2012, the current owners purchased the property at public auction, and immediately began to return the grand home to its former glory. In 2015, Inn Buffalo off Elmwood opened, featuring nine bedrooms.

Property highlights include: the basement billiards room, with its original tile corner sink; damask and silk wall tapestries on the main level; and blond mahogany woodwork upstairs. We stayed in the Sarah Dutro suite, which featured exquisite mahogany built ins, original fixtures, and a stunning onyx fireplace. There is also a large modern shower room, with multiple jets.

For those interested in the city’s architecture, Inn Buffalo is located among many gems, including one designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Wonderfully walkable, Elmwood is also the perfect base to explore Buffalo’s many parks and museums. I certainly look forward to returning to the Inn.