Erin Kristine of Studio Sunday and Nicky Gurowicz of New Leaf Interiors transformed a 3,500-square-foot second-floor office for Primacy Financial’s Buffalo Southtowns location at Seneca Street in West Seneca, NY. The suite was thoughtfully tailored to reflect the evolving needs and rebranding efforts of Primacy Financial, a firm that helps individuals gain clarity on their values and financial goals, enabling them to shape meaningful, long-term plans. To fulfill the client’s goals, the pair approached the design with a blend of residential cues and commercial-grade solutions. Drawing inspiration from Buffalo’s architectural legacy and rich cultural history, the space needed to serve a dual purpose: to reflect the values and aesthetic of the Primacy brand while meeting the practical demands of a busy office that values in-person meetings and interaction. The resulting design fosters a sense of comfort and familiarity while ensuring each element supports productivity and collaboration.
The connection between Primacy Financial and the project’s design lead, Erin Kristine, began through an existing relationship. Primacy’s founder remembered that Kristine was in the interior design field and reached out on a whim. As he juggled the responsibilities of running a financial advisory firm, he recognized the need for a trusted partner to oversee the complexities of design and project management.
At the heart of the office is the conference room, a space central to Primacy’s operations that was intentionally designed with a high level of care. Unlike underused conference rooms found in many office environments, this space is frequently used for staff meetings, one-on-one client consultations, virtual calls with satellite teams, and even catered events. Knowing this space serves as the heart of the office, Erin recognized the need for sound control and a visually cohesive feature, leading her to sample both Kirei and another acoustic supplier. From the start, the ridged, linear look of the Zen Panels was central to the design intent. When the alternative supplier failed to deliver early in the process, the design team pivoted to Kirei, whose product fulfilled the aesthetic vision and provided essential sound absorption under a short time constraint. Installed on both the ceiling and focal wall, the Zen Panels became a defining visual statement that guided the design throughout the rest of the suite.
Installed on both the ceiling and focal wall, the Zen Panels provided essential sound absorption, reducing noise and echo to foster an environment conducive to communication and concentration. The panels also guided the design language throughout the rest of the suite. Their linear, tactile quality inspired the design of the adjacent custom reception desk, which features tambour wood detailing that echoes the form of the panels. Positioned near the conference room and visible through sleek DIRTT glass partitions installed by Millington Lockwood, the desk serves as a transitional element that unites the space’s functionality and style. The reception zone also includes integrated lighting that enhances the texture of the tambour millwork and complements the ambient lighting scheme used throughout the office.
The project’s palette was intentionally grounded in neutral tones, brought to life with accents of dark blue. The blue, pulled from a silk-screened graphic wallpaper used on a partition wall near the beverage station, adds richness and depth to the otherwise soft and calming space. A variety of materials—wood, glass, neutral textured wallcoverings from Wolf Gordon, and graphic wallcoverings that nod to Buffalo’s legacy architecture—contribute to the layered, tactile experience that defines the interiors. The mix of matte and gloss finishes throughout the space provides subtle contrast and visual rhythm, offering dimension without overwhelming the small footprint. Even the furnishings were carefully selected to strike a balance between softness and structure, creating an inviting yet professional atmosphere.
While the final design appears effortless, the project came with its share of challenges. Early in the process, an alternative acoustic supplier failed to deliver, putting both the schedule and quality at risk. The design team quickly pivoted, selecting Kirei for their sustainability-forward product line and, more importantly, for their exceptional customer service. The Kirei representative proved essential, offering timely guidance and expertise that ensured the project remained on track. Zen Panels, made from 51% post-consumer recycled plastic, align with the client’s desire for environmentally responsible design, as each panel helps divert hundreds of plastic bottles from landfills.
The result is a space that truly reflects Primacy’s values and aspirations. From the functional elegance of the conference room to the thoughtful detailing of the custom reception area, every element was designed with the client’s work style and identity in mind. The outcome is so beloved that the firm’s founder often chooses to work from the conference room instead of his private office—a testament to the space’s versatility and appeal. The Buffalo Southtowns office now stands as a testament to how thoughtful design can support not only a business’s operational needs but also its culture and community presence.
Editor’s Note: Erin Kristine is principal designer and founder at Studio Sunday.