About
Founded by Nitsan Yomtov, Ets Architecture is a full-service architecture and design practice based on Lopez Island focused on regionally appropriate and ecologically responsive projects. This team of architects is grounded in a practical approach to design with over a decade of construction experience in the San Juan Islands, from swinging a hammer to project management.
Our origins as a design-build firm continue to inspire and inform our design process, as we seek solutions that embody the qualities of economy and craft. Spaces that embrace natural site characteristics and limit our impact on the environment are the backbone of our creative philosophy and practice. We take on projects of all scales, and are always looking for new design challenges and opportunities. While straddling the line between architect and builder, collaboration is the heart of what we do while engaging clients, contractors and trades-people throughout the design and construction process.
Team
Nitsan Yomtov — Principal, Architect
Nitsan is the founding Principal of Ets Architecture. His background includes over a decade of hands-on experience in the construction trades on Lopez Island, architectural work with renowned, award-winning firms, and a position as Director of Experiential Education at American Jewish University’s Brandeis Campus. He is a graduate of the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Architecture program.
Being local to the island, Nitsan brings a deep understanding of its ecology and regional character, along with experience navigating the unique intricacies of building in remote and sensitive landscapes. His work spans a range of scales—from net-zero single-family homes and off-grid cabins to civic projects including the Lopez Island Food Center and community spaces for Camp Nor’wester—always grounded in a respect for craft, site, and climate.
Design and making is integral to his practice and personal life, expressed not only through architecture but also in functional ceramics and his role as the primary laborer on his wife’s flower farm.
Ian Donnelly — Lead Architect
Ian is licensed in architecture in Washington State after earning a B.Arch from Syracuse University. He worked with William Zimmerman Architects in Seattle, and Zijdekwartier Architecten in the Netherlands, both treasured experiences and friendships, before falling in love with Lopez Island and joining Ets Architecture. Ian’s work has ranged from single-family renovations to multi-family developments. Ian appreciates a timeless, adaptable and durable architecture that promotes comfort and enhances the human experience. Ian loves exploring our world with his little family, creating space for loved ones and communities to come together and grow.
Cosmos Cordova — Designer
Cosmos grew up on Lopez Island before earning a degree in sustainable design from Western Washington University. Prior to joining Ets Architecture, he worked in construction on Lopez, gaining hands-on experience that informs his approach to design. Drawn to the balance of nature and community that defines island life, he is passionate about creating thoughtful, site-responsive spaces that reflect those values.
Approach
Rooted in a place-based design / build process, our approach prioritizes three guiding principles.
Collaboration
Clients are active participants in the design and construction of their project. By being involved, they are able to guide the course of the work towards the outcome they are striving for. Engaging with consultants, contractors, trades people and owners as early in the process as possible ensures a cohesive process and final product with all parties collaborating closely as a team.
Regionalism
We have a strong connection to place and we utilize local resources, labor and materials. This includes an understanding of the varying micro-climates and challenges of building in our unique pacific-maritime environment, a familiarity with the local regulatory agencies and code requirements, and an active role in supporting and participating in the local culture and growth of our community.
Ecology
We encourage the development and implementation of ecological building practices while designing intelligent, responsive projects. We strive to select materials, systems, and methods that promote efficiency, health, and longevity, while also being conscious stewards of the resources we utilize. With careful attention to solar exposure and site conditions, we position buildings to reduce disruption to the landscape, preserve natural systems, and foster a respectful, enduring relationship between architecture and its environment.
Construction Consulting
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For organizations undertaking large or first-time construction projects, we provide consulting services that help manage scope, schedule, and coordination. We track the work of contractors and consultants—reviewing costs, monitoring changes, and addressing problems as they arise.
Our team takes on a project management or owner’s representative role, attending weekly design meetings, virtual construction meetings, and on-site meetings, and coordinating utilities with consultants and contractors. We help align projects with funding requirements, collaborate with funding partners and are able to provide regular project updates to boards and committees.
Where applicable, we will also manage modular fabrication schedules, conduct pre-cover reviews, ensure scope alignment between modular fabricator and site contractor, and assist with module delivery and storage solutions.
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For families, building a home can be an exciting but complex process, and our team helps guide clients through site selection, feasibility studies, and pre-design planning to help create realistic and achievable goals.
Our background in both architecture and construction informs a practical, hands-on approach—bridging design intent with real-world building methods. We evaluate what can be built on a site, considering zoning, environmental factors, and buildable area. We work closely with clients to ensure their project aligns with regional conditions, ecological responsibility, and high-quality craftsmanship. Once the project is underway, we help track costs, coordinate with contractors and consultants, and navigate the construction process.
By providing ongoing guidance from concept to completion, we help clients make informed decisions, anticipate challenges, and create a home that is well-integrated with its site and community.