As you’ve heard me mention many times now, I’ve been dreaming about island life. My mind wanders even more as the rain dries up and the days get longer. This little cottage on Lagoon View Drive recently hit the market on Whidbey Island, and I’ve been longing to get my hands on it.
We even went up and snuck a peek at it last weekend. It’s small, for sure – only 576 sq ft with an open living/dining space, just one bedroom, and a compact bath, plus the ceilings are pretty low. But, the view!
I can easily imagine lounging on the porch with a glass of wine and a great book, sun warming my cheeks, every so often gazing westward past the blooming tulip tree towards Port Townsend and the Olympic Peninsula. It’s not just summer that appeals; kicking back in the living room and watching the storms roll in through the large picture window is an equally dreamy idea.
The garage is aching to be converted into a writing retreat. I would add a folding glass wall in place of the door to bring in more light and take full inspiration from the view. The carport would make a terrific covered open air dining space, with little twinkle lights suspended above and maybe an outdoor chandelier.
The living space suffers from an odd diagonal separating the carpet from vinyl parquet. Ideally, the whole house would get new pickled wood floors, and I would immediately give all that wood paneling a coat of fresh white paint. The vintage kitchen cabinets can stay, but the drawer pulls need updating, along with adding a new mini-farmhouse sink and fresh countertops.
As much as I’m a fan of the slipcovered coastal look, I think I would stay true to the era of the house and furnish with some fun mid-century pieces in beachy colors.
Heathered Basketweave Rug – Chunky Woven Sectional – Finn Armchair
Raffia Coffee Table – Ivory Shagreen Side Table
I’m certain that RF wouldn’t pick pink as an accent color, but it pairs well with blues and reminds me of pearly, iridescent shell linings.
Poppy Ikat Grid Pillow – Poppy Mongolian Lamb Pillow – Harmonea Pillow
Mirrors aren’t usually my go-to accessory, but this room could use one opposite the picture window to reflect the view. Plus, plenty of lighting for those short, dreary winter days.
Brinkley Mirror – Concrete Pillar Table Lamp – Mulberry Tripod Floor Lamp
Of course, there has to be a big basket filled with throws for chilly midsummer evenings spent out on the deck, or for keeping cozy in the winter months.
Maneka Indigo Throw (TL) – Eco-Wise Wool Throw (TR)
Coral Wind Farm Patterned Throw (BL) – Leather Handle Iron Basket (BR)
Plus, there has to be a small spot for dining. This diminutive drop-leaf is just right for the space, and these chairs are the perfect colors. Any one would do, or a mix of all four!
IKEA PS 2012 – Mackinder Dining Chair
Hey RF, I’ve practically moved us in! When are we going to sign the papers??
year of months 