Meet the Disney Couple Who Now Live in a Fort Wilderness Cabin
Earlier this year, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds unveiled new cabins, which give guests a modern twist on rustic living.
However, shortly before the new lodgings debuted, we also reported that Disney had sold off the old cabins, which fans could purchase.
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As it turns out, one Florida couple did just that. Now, they are living out every Disney fan’s dream.
Meet Grace and Jacob Kocher
Grace and Jacob Kocher were looking for a new house, when the perfect opportunity arose.
“When Disney’s Fort Wilderness cabins came up for sale, it immediately sparked our interest despite its age and, of course, its use as a resort hotel,” Grace told PEOPLE. “We knew early on that this would be a puzzle, but it was a project we felt more comfortable with than just buying a new tiny home that was double the price.”
Photo: Florida Today
As longtime Disney fans, the Kochers saw the project as extra meaningful. After all, the 500-square-foot cabins had been home to thousands of Disney guests’ fondest memories over the past two decades. Grace even grew up staying at the cabins during her family’s trips to Walt Disney World.
Moving In
Eventually, the couple purchased the cabin on Facebook Marketplace for $49,900. After previously searching for a small home and finding “a lack in quality, craftsmanship, and character in new builds,” they are thrilled with their new cabin.
Photo: PEOPLE
“We both loved finding hidden treasures, like the original resort phone and the bath products on the shower wall,” says Grace. “It was fun to see the old furniture, dishes and curtains in the cabin, but truly, no matter how much we change the cabin to be our own, it remains nostalgic just in how it was created.”
While the Kochers were infatuated with the Disney magic of their new home, they quickly realized they had their work cut out for them.
The cabin’s kitchen before and after renovations. Photo: Reel and Wildflower via PEOPLE
“There was a big learning curve to the process, such as learning how to set up the AC ductwork through YouTube videos and researching the correct way to block, level, and strap down the cabin,” Grace explains. “These cabins did not come with a spec sheet or really any information on the layout of the unit. So, we had to familiarize ourselves with the venting, the pipes, and the general electrical system to move forward.”
Follow the Kocher’s on Their Journey
The couple hopes to finish their renovations by the end of the year. Fans can follow their adventures on their Instagram page!
View this post on Instagram
“While we have painted and renovated to fit our style, add more storage, and generally make it livable for full time use, our vision will always keep the coziness of the cabin at the forefront,” Grace shares. “Some of the furniture and lighting may change, but the general nostalgia will remain the same for us.”
FEATURE IMAGE: Disney
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