About 3 years into my fore as a Registered Representative for Charles Schwab in Denver, CO I realized that my life was missing an outlet for creative expression.  I took a leave of absence to spend a summer studying architecture at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design. Working in the studio at 3 a.m. during my first week I knew that I had discovered a path that would enrich and shape my world.

While studying at the Boston Architectural College I had the opportunity to work for several firms of varying sizes.  I was exposed to a wide range of projects including large scale pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, dormitory residences, a community theater, as well as interior design for childcare facilities. 

Just before receiving my Master’s Degree in Architecture I had an opportunity to build a home near Telluride, CO that would offer exposure to residential design and mountain architecture that I quickly fell in love with.  I followed that dream to Truckee, CA and to my surprise, back home to Rochester, NY.  My experiences and skillset eventually aligned to those of Design Works Architecture where I am now a proud team member.

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Architectural design is a process of addressing a clients needs with the natural constraints of the building site. Add variables determined by municipalities, building code, and financial means and you have quite the puzzle to unravel. The defined constraints and collaborative input organically lead the project into a satisfying design process and a final product that will be enjoyed for generations.

I obtained my Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Architecture degree from Penn State University.  My career started at a large architectural engineering firm in Manhattan where I did commercial design for clients such as FedEx, The Washington Post and The United States Postal Service.  Upon moving to Rochester I continued working in the commercial realm for a smaller firm, but discovered my real passion is for residential design.  I first met Chuck when my husband and I bought a piece of land to build our dream lake home.  I collaborated with Chuck on the design knowing his expertise in timber frame construction.  We worked so well together that upon completion I began consulting for him for a few years before officially joining the team in 2016.  

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My passion for residential design stems from the connection to the site; encompassing views, celebrating them on the interior and embracing the ties between outdoor areas and indoor spaces.  With each project comes discovery – not only from the site but also from the client, which brings their own individuality and perspective to each design.

Kelly graduated from the University of Buffalo with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, where she gained valuable knowledge and skills in design, planning and drafting. With over 16 years of experience in the architecture industry, she has developed a strong foundation in the market sectors such as healthcare, K-12 schools, higher education, places of worship, and residential construction.

Throughout her career, Kelly has demonstrated a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and an ability to collaborate with team members, and clients. She is eager to continue growing professionally and contributing to the success of projects through innovative and functional design solutions.

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I believe that design should be functional, and aesthetically pleasing, while also meeting the needs and goals of the client and users.

Alex earned both his Bachelor's and Masters of Architecture from University at Buffalo and has served as an architectural designer for almost 15 years. Alex has professional experience in commercial design & construction. Gaining experience in residential design while working with Design Works Architecture, which has always been his passion. His expertise serve in various areas of commercial and all levels of educational building design & construction management, commercial building code conformance, conceptual design, adaptive re-use, and exterior restoration.

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A space is not just a space - unless it’s a closet. Design mindset of “Less is more”, creative hidden details, daylighting, and establishing an interior connection to nature to achieve a holistic design for the best user experience.

Jan has a degree in Fashion Design & Management from the School of Human Ecology at Cornell University.  After working in Manhattan as a Clothing Designer, Jan transitioned to residential design.  She got a certificate in Interior Design from the New York School of Interior Design.  She has worked alongside Chuck Smith designing residential projects in the Hudson Valley and for the design department of New Energy Works.

Rebecca first earned her Associates of Arts and Science in Interior Design at Monroe Community College and then transferred to Rochester Institute of Technology where she received her Bachelor’s in Interior Design. During her time at school, she interned for three and a half years in the New Store Planning Group for Wegmans Food Market. During this time, she was able to assist the designers in her group with millwork drawings, finishes and café furniture layouts for numerous store locations. Upon graduating from RIT, she expanded her commercial development and took a position working as an Interior Designer and Relocation Manager in Rochester. She oversaw various types of projects, such as K-12 schools, healthcare and government buildings. In April of 2016 she changed her career path and was welcomed to Design Works Architecture. Through the years, Chuck has played a key role in her residential construction development and interior detailing skill set. In November of 2019, she was supported by DWA to take some time away to support her growing family. By July of 2023, she was welcomed back to the talented team and has been collaborating on new construction and additions for our clients. 

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Rebecca's personal design philosophy is to design with a focus connection. How we feel and interact within a space is the premise for what we do. 

Austin earned his Bachelor’s of Interior Architecture from West Virginia University in May 2023. During Austin’s time in school, he has had various experience within residential design through internships, one of which being with Design Works Architecture.

During his time at West Virginia University, Austin earned a variety of awards and honorary recognitions. Austin earned his accreditation as a LEED Green Associate. Austin minored in entrepreneurship and is now assisting the marketing department at Design Works Architecture.

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Austin's personal design philosophy is curating interior spaces that represent and tell the stories of each client, enhancing people's daily lives through added functionality and intent of the user.