a love letter
to old florida
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Composed of 1,143 acres of lush Myakka landscape, Triangle Ranch had remained in the hands of one of Florida’s original Pioneer families for over a century before becoming a designated Florida Forever conservation area. Now, under the care of a new owner and the Conservation Foundation, the Ranch has been restored to its optimum ecological function and has become a living showcase for Florida’s natural beauty. Nestled amongst Triangle Ranch’s pristine wetlands and along the winding Myakka River lies a cluster of structures entrenched in Old Florida charm.
Sweet Sparkman was charged with creating two modest 12 x 12 Florida Cracker-inspired cottages to complement a 1936 pecky cypress cottage rescued from demolition and relocated from Siesta Key. Each cabin has its own unique characteristics and charm emphasized with small-scale simplicity. Described as a “victory for nature,” each cabin was designed and constructed with harmony and respect for the surrounding natural forces. A classic elevated block foundation perches each cottage safely above the flood plain and couples an authentic look with energy independence through passive solar design.
client/owner
Private Client
Project information
location
Myakka, FL
size
1,143 Acres
Status
Completed in 2021
FOUNDER
Jerry Sparkman, AIA, NCARB
Jerry Sparkman, a founding principal of Sweet Sparkman Architecture & Interiors, has been crafting resilient, thoughtful designs since the firm's inception in 2002. His work reflects a deep understanding of the coastal environment, emphasizing the integration of local culture, history, and long-term community growth. Jerry’s design philosophy—“respect the land and the people, and the rest will follow”—is exemplified in projects like The Bay Park in Sarasota, where he has merged innovative design with environmental stewardship to create vibrant public spaces. His portfolio spans high-end residential projects, public parks, higher education facilities, and community spaces, all shaped by active listening and a meticulous approach to financial, physical, social, and environmental factors. With a belief that nature provides unlimited inspiration, Jerry continues to create spaces that harmonize with their surroundings while meeting the needs of diverse communities.
Carlos Flórez, Associate AIA
Born and raised in Bogotá, Carlos Flórez earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the National University of Colombia and gained his initial professional experience working in residential and commercial projects. During the last 14 years, Carlos has been working in Sarasota on numerous commercial projects, including the addition and renovation of the Florida Studio Theatre, several residential projects from single-family homes to condominiums, and the improvement throughout the state of multiple facilities of the Florida Department of Health.
Carlos enjoys movies, history, traveling, and swimming. He loves spending time at home with his wife and their two daughters.
Designed in Collaboration With Hello June Creative.
Ⓒ Sweet Sparkman Architecture & Interiors 2025, All Rights Reserved. License: AR0015832