DUSTY OAK ARCHITECTURE, PC
A WESTERN NEW YORK
RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE FIRM
01 about
Dusty Oak Architecture, PC is a boutique firm specializing in residential architecture, including new construction custom homes, tiny homes, cabins, additions, renovations, covered patios, and modifications for ADA accessibility.
02 portfolio
03 clients
Our clients' vision is at the heart of everything we do. We work closely with homeowners to bring their architectural dreams to life, creating spaces that reflect their unique style and functional needs.
Home is where the heart is, and we understand that it's not just a place to live, but a place to create memories. We believe that everyone deserves a beautiful and comfortable home to relax and unwind in. Whether you're entertaining guests or raising a family, your home should be a reflection of your personality and style. Let us help you create a space that you'll love for years to come.
Designing a home that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing can be a challenge, and many people face difficulties when searching for architecture firms that can help them achieve their vision. Good design should be available to everyone, regardless of their budget and size of project. Poor design can lead to awkward spaces, obstructions, and limited maneuverability, which can be frustrating for homeowners. Some people may be frustrated with the inadequate layout and lack of space, making it difficult to age in place if they have a disability. It's important to address these issues and ensure that good design is incorporated in every project.
At Dusty Oak Architecture, PC, we recognize the significance of having a home that is both well-designed and functional. Whether you're seeking to socialize with loved ones, make modifications for an aging or disabled family member, or simply declutter your space, we're here to assist you. We are committed to delivering tailored solutions that cater to your specific needs and surpass your expectations. Get in touch with us today to discover how we can design your new home or turn your existing home into the space you've always envisioned.
04 testimonials
We're excited to share some testimonials from our valued clients, highlighting their experiences and satisfaction with our service.
"I had an idea for a small patio roof/exterior wall addition that I wanted to add onto my existing outdoor patio roof. The space had its limitations and I needed someone who could design a perfect addition for what I had to work with. The owner, Olga, responded to my home quickly and designed a great patio roof and exterior wall addition. Olga really listened and understood my design needs. The project went smoothly, even with having a difficult building department in the town I live in. I constructed the project myself and Olga was always available to answer any of my design questions throughout the process. I would and already have highly recommended Dusty Oak Architecture to anyone I know."
- Lancaster Homeowner
"Dusty Oaks designed our beautiful dream home from ground zero. We had a specific vision for our home and had a hard time trying to figure out how to put it all on paper. Olga was able to go through our design boards and pictures that we showed her and custom designed our home perfectly to our liking. She was a pleasure to work with and always responsive, knowledgeable and responsive in a timely manner. She was always eager to answer our questions and was easy to keep in touch with and it was almost like she was designing for herself. The end result came out even better than we envisioned!"
- Grand Island Homeowner
"We worked with Olga/company on a few different projects. Recently we renovated a master bathroom. Olga was a pleasure to work with and had a plethora of original ideas. Presented everything very well and clearly. Very responsive and we're looking forward to working with her on the next project."
- Utica Homeowner
05 the process
Finding an architect for your new home or renovation project can be a daunting task. However, below are some basic steps you can take to initiate the conversation and start your design journey.
01
Consultation
To start the process with Dusty Oak Architecture, PC, let's schedule a consultation to review your project. We'll discuss your goals, project size, design considerations, schedule, expectations, and budget.
02
Agreement
Once we have had a consultation and determined that we are a good match, we will create a proposal for our services. Our promise to you is to be mindful of your budget, to explore various design options and opportunities for excellent design, and to be accessible and responsive to any inquiries throughout the entire process.
03
Design Process
Depending on the project type and complexity, the design process may vary in duration, but below is a general overview of what you should expect.
Schematic Design Phase
​Architect gathers client needs, wants, requirements, inspiration, and develops a schematic floor plan. Schematic floor plan is reviewed with the client and changes to the floor plan are made then. Sometimes options are presented. The design moves into the next phase (design development).
​
Design Development Phase
The floor plan is finalized and the architect develops the elevations (how the house looks). Sometimes different options are presented. Once the client approves the final floor plan and elevations, the design moves into the next phase (construction documents).
​
Construction Document Phase
The architect develops the design into a set of construction documents that can be used to get prices from possible general contractors and are buildable documents. Drawings include: specifications, foundation design(structural calculations), floor/wall/roof framing(structural calculations), beams (structural calculations), building sections indicating the construction of the house, typical wall sections, appropriate construction details, door and window sizes, wall bracing plans, code compliance checklist, energy code compliance.
​​
04
Construction
​​Bidding & Permits
Construction Documents can be used to get pricing from potential contractors. Drawings are printed and provided to the client. The client selects a builder or contractor and the project is submitted to the town/village for a permit. The architect will provide responses to any questions that come up during the bidding and permitting phase. The project moves into construction.
​
Construction Administration
The architect is involved on an as needed basis. Sometimes the contractor has questions that come up during construction, which may require a site visit. Sometimes the town has specific questions to be addressed. The architect makes sure that the construction is in accordance to the construction documents since the drawings are a legal document. Any deviations from the construction documents require approval from the architect.
FAQs
(frequently asked questions)
06 FAQs
1 / I found a floor plan and home design online, can I use it?
If you find a floor plan online you really like and won't change it in any capacity, you will need to purchase the design since it is most likely copyrighted. However, New York State requires that every project is reviewed and stamped by a licensed architect or engineer. The drawings you purchase would have to be redrawn by whomever is the architect/engineer of record. The design is reviewed and designed for the climate with appropriate structure and applicable New York State codes. Purchasing drawing plans online may save some time that is usually needed for schematic design and design development, but a lot of time is still needed to draw and review construction/permit documents and specifications to ensure it could be constructed appropriately for this climate zone and jurisdiction.
2 / How much does it cost to build a new home?
The cost to build a home varies based on the square footage, complexity, and finishes in the home, as well as if a lot is already purchased and prepared for building a home. Homes in the WNY area range from $150/sf to $300/sf (but could be less or more depending on a number of variables list above). You can divide your construction budget by these numbers to get a square foot range or vice versa(multiply your desired square footage by these numbers to get a construction cost range).
3 / How much does it cost to hire an architect to design a custom home?
The cost to hire an architect varies based on the square footage and complexity of the home. Some architects develop a fee based on a percentage of the construction budget, where as other architects may develop a fee on a $ per square foot basis. At Dusty Oak Architecture, PC, our approach is tailored and a fee is developed and provided after an initial meeting to review the project and is based on the anticipated time, effort, and client expectations to complete the project.