Meet the Maker
Dorian Small
Owner, Bluestem Build, LLC
Dorian Small comes from a family of doers and makers. When he was old enough to walk, Dorian's dad decided he was old enough to come to work, picking up shards of brick and wood from construction sites. He soon began apprenticing in multiple trades and developed a passion for the process. Dorian has been building cabinets, furniture and remodeling homes for nearly twenty years. A native of El Reno, Oklahoma, he has called Norman home since 2002. He attended the University of Oklahoma, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology. When he isn't in his shop, he can be found running the trails at Sutton Wilderness, climbing 14ers in Colorado, or playing his guitar on the front porch.
About Bluestem
Tallgrass prairies have been central to the identity of the land in Oklahoma for hundreds of years. Prairie grasses like Big Bluestem (andropogon gerardi) fed bison and cattle, and provided sustenance and inspiration to the native peoples who lived in this area. Unfortunately, less than ten percent of the prairies that existed 500 years ago still exist today, and grasslands across America have fallen victim to land development. Efforts to preserve these natural resources are underway--Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in northeastern Oklahoma is the largest contiguous tallgrass area in existence. We are inspired by the heritage of Oklahoma and her grasslands, and strive to continue the traditions of sustainable growth and timeless construction.
Learn more about conservation in Oklahoma at: