BUILDING IN THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS

WHAT MAKES BUILDING IN THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS UNIQUE?

Building in the islands comes with its own rhythm. Views, topography, ferries, materials, weather — everything takes a little more coordination. But when handled thoughtfully, those factors become part of what makes island homes special.

Projects here require a careful balance between the site, the design, and logistics. Sloped lots, trees, shoreline setbacks, and utilities all shape how a home comes together. Getting those details right from the start is key to keeping the project on track and aligned with the character of the land.

Our role is to simplify that process — to make sure the design works not just on paper, but in the real context of island life.

OUR APPROACH TO REMOTE DELIVERY

Many of our clients live off-island or can only visit occasionally. We structure our process so communication stays easy and transparent from anywhere.

• Regular updates. Video calls, annotated drawings, drone photos, etc. keep you connected at every stage.

• Clear documentation. Detailed drawings and specifications reduce guesswork once construction begins.

• Local expertise. We work closely with island-based builders, engineers, and surveyors who know the logistics of ferry schedules, material deliveries, and county regulations.

• Planning ahead. Permitting and environmental coordination start early so surprises don’t surface mid-process.

The goal is simple: to keep things moving smoothly even when the site is a ferry or seaplane ride away.

PLACE BASED ARCHITECTURE

Good design in the islands means responding to what’s already there — the light, the views, the trees, the terrain. We pay attention to how the site feels throughout the day, how you move between indoors and out, and how materials will age over time.

Our island projects often use natural materials like cedar, steel, and stone that hold up well and fit the local character. We design to preserve key trees and views, work with the slope rather than against it, and maximize daylight while maintaining comfort and privacy.

The result is a home that feels connected — practical, durable, and right for its setting.

THE PROCESS / WHAT TO EXPECT

Every island project is unique, but the path generally follows a clear and consistent rhythm. Here’s what that looks like:

Site Review & Feasibility
We start by walking the property — in person or virtually — to understand its opportunities and constraints. This includes studying views, topography, trees, access, and local code requirements.
Island projects often involve shoreline regulations, septic systems, or ferry-dependent access, so we build those factors into our early planning.

Design Development
Once we understand the site, we move into design. We explore layouts, massing, and material direction, always aligning the work with your goals and the unique qualities of the land.
Because material delivery and construction logistics can influence decisions here, we keep the design grounded in what’s practical as well as beautiful.

Permitting & Coordination
We coordinate directly with San Juan County and any required consultants for shoreline, environmental, and septic permitting.
Timelines can vary, so we front-load documentation and communication to keep things moving smoothly.

Construction Documents & Bidding
When the design is set, we prepare detailed drawings and specifications. These documents make it easier for contractors to price accurately and build efficiently.
We often work hand-in-hand with island-based builders during this stage to confirm material availability and delivery timelines.

Construction Administration
As construction begins, we stay closely involved — reviewing progress, answering questions, and ensuring the design intent carries through.
Our clients often live off-island, so we supplement site visits with photo updates, virtual meetings, and clear documentation.

FAQ

Do you work with island-based contractors?
Yes. We prefer local teams familiar with the terrain, logistics, and permitting. When needed, we also collaborate with mainland contractors for specialized scopes.

How often are you on site?
We visit at key milestones and supplement with regular virtual check-ins, photo updates, and detailed reports.

What should we expect for permitting timelines?
They vary by site and scope. Projects with shoreline or environmental review take longer; we build those steps into the schedule from the start.

How do you handle shipping and access challenges?
We plan for them early. Larger or specialized materials often require advance coordination with barges or ferries. We’ll help sequence deliveries to minimize disruption.