Whatcom County: Sunnyland
There’s no such thing as the perfect neighborhood. Everyone has different needs and desires. But for Tina and Kirby White, Sunnyland has it all. Sunnyland is where they live, work, and play.
A few blocks away from their home is their restaurant, Homeskillet. It’s a breakfast and brunch place that has gained wild popularity, even outside its Sunnyland borders—Homeskillet is known as Sunnyland’s “worst-kept secret.”
The Whites were looking for a restaurant within walking distance of their home, as they already had easy accessibility to Kulshan Brewing, Cash and Carry, and Trader Joe’s. Even downtown is only a 10-minute walk. When a nearby space opened, they created Homeskillet. At that time, they were not financially ready to open a business. But a Sunnyland friend and business owner took a chance on them and helped out.
Four years, 11 months, and three weeks down the line—not that they’re counting—Homeskillet has become the restaurant it is today. The location of Homeskillet has deepened the White’s connection with their neighbors and others in Sunnyland. Neighbors will yell their names or “Homeskillet!” as they’re walking their dogs, will stop to chat, or pull them into Kulshan to talk and drink a few beers.
Homeowners since 2002, they’ve found that “as soon as artists move in or eclectic individuals move into a neighborhood, then suddenly it becomes an area that people want to move into,” says Kirby. That’s what’s happening in Sunnyland.
Sunnyland once lagged behind the Lettered Streets and Columbia in popularity because of its industrial areas and the lack of “hangout” spots. But now people are looking to Sunnyland for its quaint houses and walkability. Sunnyland was once an overlooked, affordable place. Not any more.
In the 15 years that the Whites have been residents, Sunnyland has changed. The people are what make this neighborhood what it is, say the Whites. Sunnyland has grown to become a place where people care about each other and their community
On the Market
1539 Grant St., Bellingham $319,000 | MLS# 1096224
Steps from downtown Bellingham is this two-bedroom, one-bath home. The living room’s arched ceiling, the sizable bedrooms, and the full bath situated between the two bedrooms give the house a spacious feel despite its 864 square feet.1539 Grant St., Bellingham $319,000 | MLS# 1096224 Steps from downtown Bellingham is this two-bedroom, one-bath home. The living room’s arched ceiling, the sizable bedrooms, and the full bath situated between the two bedrooms give the house a spacious feel despite its 864 square feet.
STATS
Number of Homes: 996
Average Days on Market: 30
Median List Price: $320,000
Schools: Sunnyland Elementary School, Parkview Elementary School, Whatcom Middle School, Bellingham High School
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