nortThere’s no place like Greater Gainesville.
Over two weekends this November – 11-12th and 18-19th – the Builders Association of North Central Florida (BANCF) will host its biannual Parade of Homes™ in Greater Gainesville.
This event, showcasing the latest innovations in home design, technology and amenities, will be free of charge and open to the public. From prospective first-time homebuyers to those looking for some remodeling and renovation inspiration, the Fall Parade of Homes™ will have something for everyone.
One of Gainesville’s most prominent and exciting communities will take center stage at the event. The Town of Tioga, a green, innovative and walkable neighborhood, plans to set the standard even higher for what living in GG is all about.
Two stunning homes will represent the Town of Tioga in this year’s parade – The Camden, by Barry Bullard Homes, and The Haven, by Tommy Waters Custom Homes. These two Gainesville-area builders are among the select few constructing homes in Tioga and contributing to its inimitable style.
The Haven
“It all started because I really wanted to do something different,” said Tommy Waters.
Waters, the owner of Tommy Waters Custom Homes, aimed to take a unique approach to this project. The five-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bath house is nearly 4,000 square feet and features a pool and spa, three-car garage and an open stairwell.
However, his favorite part might be the kitchen.
“It’s definitely not traditional.” Waters said, “But I think the kitchen is something you’ll really take with you after seeing the house.”
Finely crafted cabinets from a German company contribute to the contemporary style Waters was after. From slide-outs and electric retracting doors to lights inside the cabinets themselves, it is details like these that earn the Haven its name.
No stranger to the Parade of Homes™, Waters set a record as the youngest builder ever to build and show a home for the event. Starting under the tutelage of his father, who was the original owner and founder of the company, Tommy Waters has been an industry insider since he was 17 years old.
In keeping with the family tradition, Waters’ son and daughter are now instrumental in the company. His son, Derek, is the project manager, while his daughter, Carly, manages the office for the business. Waters hopes they will be the future of Tommy Waters Custom Homes.
“I certainly think it’s going to be a talkative piece,” Waters said.
The Camden
Barry Bullard knows Gainesville.
The owner and founder of Barry Bullard Homes calls it his hometown and the home of his business headquarters. The University of Florida alum has literally helped build Gainesville – hundreds of homes have been constructed since Barry Bullard Homes opened its doors in 1979.
And he is not slowing down.
Working with Tioga for the past four years, Bullard’s most recent design is The Camden, which represents 40 years’ worth of talent, skill and hard work. Its inclusion in the Parade of Homes this year will be a privilege for anyone who gets to see it.
“This is a first-time plan that we’ve done,” Bullard said. “We designed it to take advantage of the common area on the west side of the lot, letting us open up the house to face that.”
The four-bedroom, three-bath home is a little over 3,000 square feet and features a study, a summer kitchen and a bonus loft room. Open and spacious, the Camden has 10 and 12-foot ceilings and an abundance of windows to let in natural light.
This remarkable event promises to celebrate exceptional homes, vibrant community spirit and the beauty of the season. Whether searching for a dream home or simply looking for a delightful way to spend a day, the Fall Parade home tour in the Town of Tioga is an experience not to be missed.