FAQ & Reviews | deanarchitects

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions:

Q: When it comes to the design for my project, how much input will I have?
A: You are the one hiring us. We work for you. Our team will listen to your wants and needs and will draw up plans based on what YOU want. Of course the concept has to be structurally sound, up to code and have the ability to be approved by local building inspectors, which is one of the issues that architect Mark Dean will help with.

Q: How much does it cost for blueprints (drawings) from Dean Architects?
A: It depends on the project, but our architect will let you know what the cost will be after your initial consultation, which is free. If you do choose our company to draw your plans, we ask for 25% down. The rest is paid as the drawings progress. We accept cash, checks and credit cards.

Q: How long does it take to have plans drawn up?
A: On average for a residential project it takes about two weeks for our designers and the architect to have a set of schematic floor plans and elevations ready to go. An additional two weeks is needed for the construction documents. For commercial projects, the timeline depends on scale of the project.

Q: I am building in Buffalo, can Dean Architects do my drawings, even though you are located in Depew?
A: We can do drawings for projects located anywhere in New York, including Buffalo, Lancaster, Williamsville, Cheektowaga, Darien, Amherst, Springville, Ellicottville, Rochester and anywhere else in western New York and beyond. We just finished a BBQ restaurant project in Lake Placid. Architect Mark Dean is also licensed in architecture in Florida, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Q: If I need a variance for my project, will your firm help me with that?
A: Yes we will! Mark Dean will either talk you through it, or go before the required boards to get you the variance. He attends many town, village, and city boards to get projects approved.

Q. I don't know any builders, can your firm help me find someone?
A: Yes we can. We work with several builders and contractors that we trust and know will build your project with care and respect. If you prefer, we can offer you several names, so you can pick the one that you find most qualified for the job.

Q: I found a house plan online that I like, can I bring that to you for drawings?
A: Yes you can. While we don't work with the online companies, we can draw a plan for a home very similar to the one you found on the computer. As a matter of fact, if you find something you like, such as the style of a home, design of windows, a kitchen island, bathroom design or anything else, bring those pictures with you and we can incorporate what you like about the picture into your design.

Q: I want to build an addition to my home, we have old blueprints from when it was built do you need them?
A: We don't need them, however, they may help us to draw your addition. And in some cases, they can even save you time and money. So let us know if you have a set. By the way, you should always save your architectural drawings, you never know when they may come in handy.

If you have any questions, please contact our office and we will do our best to answer them.

Beautiful Building

Our office building, located at 3284 Walden Ave., looks stunning against the sunset in this photo.

Testimonials

Pat B wrote this nice review: This past fall I was given Dean Architects as a reference from my brother. I had never hired an architect before so I did not know what to expect. I certainly knew my job was small and did not expect to be a priority. That expectation was shattered. Being a neophyte I had many questions and concerns. Each time I called I was treated as if I was Dean’s only client. My case manager Jason is a consummate professional, who is both courteous and knowledgeable. My questions were always answered in a timely fashion and I was always made to feel welcome to contact Jason when I felt it necessary. It would be nice if more companies performed like Dean Architects.

Judy D says: "Prompt courteous service. Town never questioned one single drawing prepared by Mark Dean/AJ. We made a few modifications and Mark prepared the new drawings without an additional cost, prepared letters to the town and everything went smoothly. Contractors, construction workers and "People in the know" commented on the detailed/precise drawings and were very impressed. If you want the job done right, this is the guy to hire."

Julia C says: "They were extremely helpful and very patient with us throughout the process of completing our plans for a home addition."

This comes from a repeat client named Jeff, who rated the service he receives from us as excellent and he says he would do business with us again! He also wrote, "Dean Architects are and is one of the best architects I have dealt with."

This one comes from Gregg, who also rated the service by Dean Architects as excellent!! He noted that he would do business with us again and wrote, "They did what they said they would on time, on budget. Always accessible and responsive. Great people!! Highly recommended."

Robert & Demaree say: "This was our first experience working with and architect on an older home and we could not be more pleased. You and A.J. [Brose] were always prompt with your responses throughout the process. The attention to detail and your genuine desire to address our needs and concerns were exceptional and most appreciated. High marks to you and your staff...many thanks!"