Imagine… Making the Most of Small Spaces on Whidbey

Living in a small home on Whidbey Island can be an absolute delight—if you design it right. Cozy doesn’t have to mean cramped. With a few clever choices, even the most compact spaces can feel open, airy, and perfectly you. Over the years, I’ve learned that when you embrace the art of space-savvy design, you create more than just efficiency—you create joy.

Here are some of my favorite ways to turn small homes into big lifestyle wins:

Multi-Functional Magic

Furniture that works double duty is a lifesaver. Think sofa beds that host overnight guests, coffee tables with hidden storage, or dining tables that moonlight as workstations. On Whidbey, where homes often carry stories and quirks, it’s about blending function with charm—without adding clutter.

Look Up!

When square footage is limited, the walls are your best friends. Tall bookshelves, wall-mounted hooks, and storage that climbs to the ceiling make a space feel intentional and give you breathing room. Vertical lines also draw the eye upward, which tricks the brain into feeling like the room is larger.

Lighten the Palette

If you want a room to feel bigger, lean into light, neutral colors. Whites, creams, soft grays—these shades reflect our island light beautifully. Add pops of color with pillows, rugs, or art so the space feels fresh but not overwhelming.

Mirrors, Always

It’s not a gimmick—they really do expand a room. A mirror across from a window doubles your view of the water, trees, or garden, and reflects light all day long. I’ve used mirrored backsplashes in kitchens, and it’s a game changer.

Keep It Sleek, Keep It Simple

Less is more. Clean-lined furniture and minimalist choices keep a small home from feeling cluttered. Instead of three bulky chairs, choose one well-designed piece that makes a statement and leaves room to breathe.

Define Your Zones

Even the coziest home needs structure. Rugs, lighting, and furniture placement can create “zones” inside an open plan—like a dining nook, workspace, or reading corner. It adds layers without adding walls.

Custom Storage is Worth It

If you’ve got an awkward nook or staircase, let it work for you. Built-ins can hide clutter and make every inch count. This is one place where investing pays off.

Invite the Light In

Nothing makes a small home feel bigger than natural light. Sheer curtains, uncluttered windows, and reflective surfaces let the sun do the heavy lifting. If you can add a skylight or light tube, even better.

Sliding Doors for the Win

Hinged doors eat up space. Sliding doors (especially glass ones) keep things flexible and keep light moving between rooms. They’re one of my favorite small-home tricks.

Personal Touches, Always

At the end of the day, your home should reflect you. A well-loved chair, art from a local gallery, or a basket that’s both beautiful and functional—it’s the personal touches that make a small home feel big on heart.

Ready to Rethink Your Space?

Small homes on Whidbey aren’t a limitation—they’re an invitation to get creative. With thoughtful design, you can maximize function without sacrificing beauty.

If you’d like more inspiration (or want to peek inside some of the homes I’ve designed and loved), visit amygulden.com. It’s full of resources, projects, and ideas to help you imagine what’s possible in your own space.

Whether it’s 800 square feet or 3,000, the art of home is about how it makes you feel.

—Amy Gulden