Jacob Flitton
Owner & Principal Architect
Phone: (716) 646-8251
Email: jake@havenarchitecture.com
Years of Experience:
10- Haven Architecture : 20- Total
About Jake
I didn’t start out originally in Western New York, I’ve only been here since 2009. Yet more recently, my family and I have decided to settle down. We officially became proud residents of East Aurora within the last couple of years. My love of architecture began when I discovered Legos as a kid. I still play with them, and occasionally share the Legos with my kids. I never thought I would enjoy running a small boutique architecture firm, yet here I am, enjoying every minute of it. Haven Architecture, has been in the works in some form (unofficially) or another for a number of years. Yet officially being founded in 2015.
I originally hail from the State of Utah, Salt Lake City to be exact. I’ve been lucky enough to have practiced the architecture profession in a number of states throughout the country (Utah, Idaho, Arizona, Washington, Pennsylvania and now New York). I completed my undergraduate degree in architecture at the University of Utah, and then received my Master’s degree in architecture through the University of Idaho.
During the licensing process, a cross-country move brought us (my family and I) across the country to Western New York. The area and beautiful surroundings have grown on us, and with Haven Architecture blossoming into a successful business, Western New York, specifically the small town of East Aurora NY has become home to the firm.
Professional Licenses & Certifications
New York: #037972 (2015)
Utah: #9301715-0301 (2015)
Arizona: #67866 (2018)
Pennsylvania: #RA409246 (2020)
AIA Member
NCARB Certified
Eagle Scout
Professional Education & Experience
Education
Master of Architecture- University of Idaho, 2007
Bachelor of Architecture- University of Utah, 2004
Associates, Architectural Technology- Salt Lake Community College, 2002
2015- Current
Owner & Principal Architect
Haven Architecture
- Founded the practice with a mission to create meaningful, individualized spaces rooted in calm and clarity.
- Led architectural direction for residential, ADU, and small commercial projects from concept through construction.
- Established studio standards for documentation, design communication, client experience, and quality control.
- Managed consultant coordination, structural integration, and permitting processes.
- Expanded the practice during the pandemic to support increased demand for thoughtful living environments.
The Proust Questionaire
Taking inspiration from a popular nineteenth-century parlor game, we sat down with each member of our team and asked them questions about themselves and their inspirations.
Describe your education journey
Associates Degree- Architectural Technology: Salt Lake Community College. Bachelor’s
Degree- Architecture: University of Utah. Masters Degree- Architecture: University of Idaho
Describe your experience journey
Wide ranging from an over 200 custom home development to custom log homes to multi-million
dollar school projects. To now follow the entrepreneurial spirit and become self-employed.
Covid was the catalyst for me to spread my wings and take Haven Architecture from a side-gig,
to now a full time gig with a bright and exciting future. I feel like I have learned more
professionally as an entrepreneur than all my other professional experience.
Favorite Project you have worked on?
My favorite was nothing glamorous at all. It was a small re-build of a front porch. To see the
excitement and love these home owners had for their project and home, still brings goosebumps
and gives me the chills. It was honestly very touching.
One Sentence or word that captures your design philosophy or approach?
Hawaiian Shirts!!
What inspires your work? (People, places, things, experiences etc)
Oddly enough, a natural untouched environment with no built structures inspires and rejuvenates
me. However, my wife and kids are my true inspiration that gives me the strength to push
through all the hard days.
Why did you choose this field?
I actually feel like the field chose me. I can’t even imagine myself in any other field
Describe your design style in 3 words
Hawaiian Shirts, Yo (I had to make it to 3 words)
What would be your dream project(s)? (real or imaginary)
I’ve always wanted to design treehouses. However, designing custom doghouses to match the
owner’s house sounds like a lot of fun!
If your life had a soundtrack to it, what song would it be, or what artist?
Humble and Kind by Tim McGraw
What is your favorite building of all time?
That I have visited: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Falling Water. Seen in pictures only, Fay Jones’
Thorncrown Chapel. Both are surrounded entirely by nature.
Go to a stress snack?
Something crunchy. But I definitely have a weak spot for chocolate twizzlers.
What is something that sparks your creativity?
Kids. They have an unfiltered level of creativity. I love being with small kids who dream big and
only their imagination sets their limits.
What do you do when you are not working? (which should be 90% of the time because we don't promote workaholics)
I like to be outside- in nature. The more scenic the better.
What's a fun fact people wouldn't expect about you?
I was attacked by a flying squirrel inside my bedroom closet!
What is something you always have to have in your workspace?
I’d love to say a volleyball named Wilson, but it’s a tape measure.
Favorite spot in town?
My favorite spot is next to my wife. Wherever we are, if she’s by my side, that’s my favorite spot.
How do you bring your touch into your work?
Hawaiian Shirts. It’s not my touch that matters, it’s my listening and deciphering skills that matter.
What is your most unconventional source of inspiration?
My wife’s homemade pies. You won’t question me if you’ve had one of her pies.
Anything else you feel inspired to add?
I’m not the stereotypical architect. I don’t even own a black turtleneck shirt.