Jasper Bay Residence
Bladderwrack Cabin
Courtyard House
Camp Nor'wester Office
LCLT Affordable Farm Worker Housing
Cherry Tree Residence
Juniper Studio
Basecamp
Whiskey Hill Residence
Lopez Food Center
Camp Nor’wester Henderson Commons
Ferry Road Remodel
Lot 3 Residence
Mud Flat Home
Peninsula Residence
Mackaye Harbor Family Retreat
about
Founded by Nitsan Yomtov, Ets Architecture is a full-service architecture and consulting 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. Straddling the line between architect and builder, collaboration is the heart of our relationship with our clients, contractors, and tradespeople through both architectural design and construction consulting.
Ets Architecture was named to the inaugural Forbes America’s Best-In-State Residential Architects list in 2025, recognizing the firm’s impact, reputation, and excellence in residential design.
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 holds a degree in Architecture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
As an islander, Nitsan has a deep understanding of the region’s ecology, character, and the unique challenges of building in remote, sensitive landscapes. His projects range from net-zero homes and off-grid cabins to civic spaces like the Lopez Island Food Center and facilities for Camp Nor’wester - all rooted in a reverence for community, craft, site, and climate.
Design and making are central to both his professional and personal life - expressed not only through architecture but also through functional ceramics and his ongoing role as the primary laborer on his wife’s flower farm.
Ian Donnelly — Lead Architect
Ian is a licensed architect in Washington State, holding a B.Arch from Syracuse University. He honed his skills at William Zimmerman Architects in Seattle and Zijdekwartier Architecten in the Netherlands - both formative experiences that fostered lasting friendships - before discovering a deep connection to Lopez Island and joining Ets Architecture.
Ian’s work has ranged from single-family renovations to multi-family developments, reflecting his appreciation for timeless, adaptable, and durable design that enhances comfort and enriches the human experience.
Outside the studio, Ian enjoys exploring the world with his young family and creating spaces that bring loved ones and communities together.
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.
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.
Approach
Rooted in a place-based design / build process, our approach prioritizes three guiding principles:
Regionalism
We have a strong connection to place and we utilize local resources, labor and materials. This includes an under- standing 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 construction 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 provide regular project updates to boards and committees. This approach has supported civic and community projects across the San Juan Islands, from Lopez and Orcas to the Outer Islands.
Where applicable, we 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 integrate green building systems and passive strategies to maximize efficiency and resilience in island settings. 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.
NEWS
We send newsletters every few months, sharing meaningful updates about our design work and community partnerships. Below are our last three public updates.
Looking Back on 2025
Finished work, work underway, and other updates.
Recognition from Forbes Magazine
Ets has been included in Forbes’ inaugural America’s Best-In-State Residential Architects
2025 Summer Update
A Focus on Community Spaces