A small cabin that lives big

Outdoor extensions

Living space doesn’t have to mean four walls and a ceiling.

The Johnstons think of the veranda as another room. “The concrete steps off the veranda extend the house further,” Mary says.

“And in the summer, people sit on the granite rocks below.”

Design ideas for small spaces

Lots of open space

“I love my kitchen,” Mary says. “It’s small and open and really efficient.”

One of the couple’s favorite things is the appliance-free island they made from a stainless steel-and-butcher block work space they bought at a restaurant-supply store and covered on three sides with plywood.

“It was incredibly inexpensive, and it’s become one of the central gathering spots in the house,” she says.

• On Sunset.com: Before & After: 17 amazing makeovers

Design ideas for small spaces

Living space

“Spatial economics is the idea that you should be able to live within the radius of your interaction,” Ray says.

In other words, no extra rooms and no wasted space.

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Cozy nook

“In a small space, the most satisfying thing is variety,” Mary says of the built-in bookshelf on the wall above the staircase.

The inviting alcove is both a convenient throughway and another place to hang out.

• On Sunset.com: Before & After: 17 amazing makeovers

Design ideas for small spaces

Small sleeping quarters

This area can't rightly be called a bedroom, so the Johnstons call it the “bed cabinet.” It’s a foot larger than a queen-size bed on every side.

“We were a little experimental,” Ray says. Unless there’s company, the doors are left open to the view.

The sleeping loft above the living room creates more spaciousness.

Design Johnston Architects, Seattle (206/523-6150)

Design ideas for small spaces