What We Build
A Short List.
Done Exceptionally Well.
Island Built focuses on project types that benefit most from early, deeply-involved project management. We do not try to be everything to everyone.
New Custom Homes
A custom home on San Juan Island is one of the most complex residential projects you can undertake. Ferry-dependent deliveries, a limited trades pool, compressed building seasons, and a permitting environment that rewards local knowledge — these realities define the project before a single board is cut. We navigate all of it.
- Pre-design feasibility and site analysis
- Budget development before plans are finalized
- Architect and design team coordination
- San Juan County permitting and agency management
- Full construction management through certificate of occupancy
- Finish and punch-list to owner-builder standards
Whole-Home Remodels
A whole-home remodel done right is nearly as complex as new construction — and on an island, the logistics are often harder. Sequencing matters. Trade availability matters. Every decision made before the walls open affects everything that follows.
- Pre-construction scope and budget development
- Design team coordination
- Permitting and county approvals
- Full site management with consistent crew
- Material sourcing with island logistics factored in
- Transparent budget tracking and regular client communication
Additions & Significant Expansions
An addition that truly belongs — in scale, material, and detail — to an existing home requires a builder who pays attention to the whole, not just the new square footage. We approach additions with the same early-engagement process as our new home work.
- Primary suite additions
- Guest quarters and ADUs
- View decks and covered outdoor living spaces
- Garage additions with connected living space
- Second-story additions and vertical expansions
Pre-Construction Consulting
Not every client is ready to build tomorrow. Some are in the research phase — trying to understand what’s actually possible on their lot, what a realistic budget looks like before committing to an architect, or what questions they should be asking before signing anything.
- Site visits and initial feasibility assessment
- Budget range development before architect is engaged
- Design-bid-build process guidance
- San Juan County permitting roadmap
Navigating San Juan County
San Juan County’s regulatory environment adds layers that mainland projects don’t carry. Critical areas — wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat corridors, frequently flooded areas, geologically hazardous slopes, and marine shorelines — affect a significant portion of island properties. Misjudging their boundaries early can stall permitting for months.
David has worked inside that system, not just around it. His time on the San Juan County Planning Commission means he understands how the Shoreline Master Program, critical areas ordinances, and the county’s growth management framework are written, what they protect, and how to structure a project for efficient approval.
A Word on Project Size
Island Built maintains a $50,000 project minimum and focuses on new construction and significant remodels. We are not the right call for emergency repairs, handyman work, or projects where price is the only driver.
Island Built is based on San Juan Island and serves projects across the archipelago — Orcas, Lopez, Shaw, and accessible outer islands. We build ferry schedules, barge deliveries, and subcontractor travel into every project plan from day one.
Bring Us Your Vision Before You Finalize Anything.
We ask one thing before a first conversation: bring your vision, your site, and your honest sense of what you want to spend. We’ll tell you what’s realistic, what it will take, and whether Island Built is the right team.