Finding a new home that captures the essence of the one you’re leaving behind can feel like an impossible task. But for Patricia Woodcock, it wasn’t just about finding a house—it was about finding a place where family traditions could continue to thrive. After raising five children in a renovated carriage house in Cazenovia, Patricia knew what she wanted: a home that felt just as warm, welcoming, and full of life. And she found it in Fayetteville, NY, at 5221 Leverett Lane—a 1931 Colonial built by renowned architect Charles Umbrecht. But here’s where it gets intriguing: this wasn’t just any Colonial. Umbrecht, a German immigrant, designed New England-style homes that The Post-Standard once called ‘collector’s items,’ and this one is no exception. With its unique angles, timeless elegance, and thoughtful design, it’s anything but cookie-cutter. And this is the part most people miss: the home’s ability to seamlessly blend history with modern comfort, from its gleaming moldings and grand staircase to its gourmet kitchen and spa-like primary bath. Patricia’s son, Jonathan, recalls the family’s first home in Cazenovia, which his dad renovated while they lived there. ‘All our stuff was in an 18-wheel tractor trailer on the front lawn,’ he laughs. But once it was finished, it became the heart of their family—a place for Sunday dinners, big celebrations, and countless memories. Fast forward to 2018, and Patricia moved to Fayetteville to be closer to her grandchildren, who had settled in Onondaga County. Her new home? A three-bedroom, 2,646-square-foot Colonial that felt just as ‘perfect’ as the one she left behind. It even had a Wegmans nearby—a small but significant detail for anyone who knows the joy of a well-stocked grocery store. The house sits on nearly an acre of wooded land, with a backyard tennis court that’s become a Woodcock family tradition. Two of Patricia’s grandkids recently competed in the state finals, thanks to hours of practice on their grandmother’s court. But here’s the controversial part: Jonathan claims he’s still the family’s best player. What do you think—is he just being nostalgic, or does he have a point? Inside, the home is a decorator’s dream. Patricia, who loves to fill her space with Stickley furniture, vintage décor, and wallpaper, found plenty of room to showcase her style. The formal living room features a wood-burning fireplace, while the cozy wood-paneled den—her favorite spot—has a gas fireplace and a hidden panel leading to a half bath. The gourmet kitchen, with its white cabinetry, granite counters, and high-end appliances, was the perfect place for Patricia to continue her tradition of homemade pasta, red sauce, and meatballs for Sunday dinners. Her grandkids especially loved the wooden trap door in the island that drops trash into a hidden bin—a quirky detail that adds charm. The lower level, dubbed ‘grandkid central,’ is a finished space where the little ones can run wild. It includes a family room with an office nook, another gas fireplace, and even a workshop. Outside, the property is a private oasis with lush landscaping, a fenced-in area for dogs, and a two-car garage. But the real question is: can a house truly replace the one where so many memories were made? For Patricia, this Fayetteville Colonial came close—so close that she’s now building a new home in Skaneateles to continue her family traditions. As for 5221 Leverett Lane, it’s on the market for $769,000, with an open house scheduled for Sunday, December 21, from 10:30 to 12:30. Will it become someone else’s ‘perfect family home’? Only time will tell. What do you think makes a house truly feel like home? Is it the architecture, the location, or the memories you create within its walls? Let us know in the comments!
