HABITAT DESIGNS 

Bio

Jonathan founded Habitat Designs LLC in 2008 with a passion for creating homes that feel rooted in their environment and thoughtfully crafted for the people who live in them. His experience leading award-winning design-build teams has shaped a collaborative, detail-driven approach that balances design vision with constructability.

Living on San Juan Island Jonathan has thoroughly enjoyed raising his  two daughters with my wife, Vail, a practicing  Real Estate Broker. further grounding our work in the local community and its values. Jonathan brings local insight, strong builder relationships, and a deep appreciation for island landscapes to every project.

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Design Philosophy

With a deep belief that thoughtful design, rooted in its environment, can enhance lives and create lasting value, Habitat Designs approaches each project with care, curiosity, and intention. Our process begins with a close examination of context—site, climate, culture, and client goals—allowing us to develop design solutions that feel authentic, appropriate, and enduring.

We utilize advanced 3D design technology to clearly communicate ideas and deliver architecture that is both inspired and well-resolved. Habitat Designs LLC has earned a reputation for quality, innovation, and a collaborative design process that leads to successful outcomes.​

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Design–Build Partnership

Our design approach has been strongly influenced by years of experience leading the design-build team at Ravenhill Construction, the award-winning San Juan Island firm. A decade spent designing, budgeting, and managing custom home construction provided a comprehensive understanding of the full design-build process.

This collaborative, team-oriented approach—working closely with owners and builders—brings clarity, efficiency, and confidence to each project. Habitat Designs LLC continues to partner closely with the current owners of "Ravenhill"  on custom design-build projects.
Examples of this collaboration have been published in Premier Builder magazine, as seen in the links below:

"West Side House"

 "Tower House"

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Local Contractors & Collaborators

Habitat Designs has developed long-standing working relationships with a select group of vetted local island contractors. By thoughtfully pairing each project with the right builder, we are able to create a smooth and effective design-to-construction process.

Our collaborative team approach has led to the successful completion of many exceptional homes. Current builder partners include Zehner Construction, Rift Cut Construction, Ross Remodeling, Wilson Construction (Shaw Island), and Aldort Construction (Orcas Island). Conscious collaboration and teamwork are fundamental principles guiding every project.

Our work is further enhanced through close collaboration with Joe Cooper Designs.  specializing in cabinetry, casework, and custom furniture. Joe brings an exceptional level of craftsmanship and attention to detail, resulting in interiors and finishes that are carefully tailored to each client and project.

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Green Building

Habitat Designs is a "Built Green" certified professional practice, with extensive experience in energy-efficient and environmentally responsible home design. Jonathan also led the "Natural Balance Home" to a "LEED" Platinum certification—the highest level of green building certification.

In addition, Habitat Designs is a Greenshores for Homes™ verifier, specializing in environmentally sensitive shoreline development. While we enjoy envisioning new custom homes, we are especially passionate about reimagining existing residences. Reuse, renovation, and performance upgrades align naturally with our green building sensibilities and commitment to responsible design.

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Community Development

Habitat Designs has proudly supported the San Juan Island Home Trust, assisting in the certification of the Sunrise Development to the Evergreen Sustainable Development Standard.

We are also actively involved in the Brickworks Community Stage, an ongoing community project that will provide a much-needed music and performance venue in the heart of Friday Harbor. 
Project updates can be found at @ fhbrickworks.com

 

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