A design-forward architecture studio Built on trust and COLLABORATION.

OAK Design Studio is a design-forward, collaborative architecture studio offering full-spectrum design services for commercial and residential projects. Licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, our design process highlights the client as a collaborative partner in creating thoughtful and beautiful spaces.

Our design process focuses on finding creative solutions that surprise and delight, displaying the unique aspects of each project and client.

betsy kersten / principal architect

With 17 years of experience in the industry, Betsy's career encompasses a wide variety of project types and locations.  Through each project, she’s learned to enjoy every aspect of the design process and seeks to find opportunities for great design at every turn.

After earning her Master’s Degree, Betsy began her career in Los Angeles, where she developed an appreciation for custom luxury design in both residential and commercial projects.

Over the past 13 years, Betsy has loved living and working in Kansas City. While working at a large commercial firm, she learned the value of the design process and team collaboration.  Since opening OAK Design Studio, she has enjoyed guiding her clients through every stage of the project, and working closely with her clients throughout the design process.  Her goal with every project is to help you find the delight in great design.






kelsey schwaller / architect

Kelsey is proud to call Kansas City her home, and has ten years of industry experience here.

After earning her Master’s in Architecture and building knowledge through a career in educational design, Kelsey transitioned to the non-profit sector where her love for people thrived. She worked with a local nonprofit to design affordable single- and multi-family homes, and worked closely with homeowners to educate them on both construction and home maintenance.

Kelsey was thrilled to join OAK Design Studio in 2024. With every project, she looks for the human connection - how will the space support both the small nuances and the big adventures of life? She believes great design should do both.






After a good number of years in the construction and remodeling industry, I can say comfortably that Betsy has been the easiest architect to work with. Not only is she incredibly knowledgeable about her craft, she is also able to be flexible to accommodate the client's needs. She delivers a great product that on more than one occasion has gotten compliments from fellow builders and the city officials.

Chad D.

Betsy was a dream to work with from start to finish! Her architectural and interior designs were creative and catered to our preferences, while showing consideration for our practical constraints. I loved how Betsy brought her designs to life with detailed 3D renderings to aid my understanding of the options. Betsy also managed our expectations and the project’s timeline well, and she went above and beyond by helping us navigate working with a contractor for the first time. I have already recommended her services to several friends and neighbors.

Amanda W.

Betsy with OAK Design Studio was a pleasure to work with on my recent addition project in Prairie Village. Her communication from the beginning was relaxed and approachable. The most important thing I felt she added to my project was that she saw the value in collaborating with me to achieve my design vision. She worked quickly and efficiently on both renderings and plans. After the initial drawings were delivered she remained available during the project. While I didn’t reach out often she always took my calls and helped me bounce ideas when that was going above and beyond what I had hired her for. I highly recommend her to others and have even shared her contact for those needing architectural services on upcoming projects.

Austin S.

DesignKC Award Winner

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