Open House
A young family returns to Ocala and finds the charm of an old-fashioned farmhouse coming to life in their new home. By Belea T. Keeney
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Photography by John Jernigan
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ometimes it’s just that one thing that makes you fall for a house. A classic red metal roof protecting a cozy home. A magnolia tree that shades the back deck just so. The patina on a Victorian gate leading to a lush backyard. For Laura and T.J. Sherman of Ocala, their one thing was corner pocket doors. These five sliding glass doors are set in a corner on a covered porch. When open, the entire two walls of the dining area and hallway beckon to the porch and fenced backyard. These pocket doors help make the Shermans’ daily life in their new Magnolia Place home a delight. “I love that it’s open,” T.J. says. “We can have the outside inside. If you come by anytime that it’s below 70 degrees, those doors are open. They’re pretty much open all the time, and when I go to bed, I’ll close it.” Those unusual corner pocket doors are a key element in the modern farmhouse vibe of this home. T.J. is good friends with Ryan Gummer, who owns Secure Built, LLC Custom Home Builders in Ocala. It was natural for Gummer to work with the Shermans on this project—a modern farmhouse that appeals to all kinds of families. “Every family is unique,” Gummer states, “but we’ve seen a common desire for larger, open kitchens with flush countertop islands. The double wall oven has returned, large walk-in pantries with built-in organization systems are popular and of course the farmhouse sink is a must in any modern farmhouse.”