The town of Kernersville, in Forsyth County is home to what just may be the strangest house in America. Encompassing works of art, architectural design elements and odd furniture, this unusual dwelling was the masterpiece of its builder, an interior decorator, furniture designer and painter named Jule Gilmer Körner. It was originally built to showcase his talents – a bit of a calling card for prospective clients. The unusual fruits of his labor still stand today and you can tour it in person and see for yourself the most whimsical house in North Carolina.

Built from 1878 - 1880, the home was quickly named Körner's Folly after a neighbor attempted to make fun of the dwelling. The owner liked the moniker so much that he named the house as such. The interiors of Körner's Folly are a bit over the top. The Reception Room is adorned with paintings, fantastic embellishments, and unique furniture designed by Körner.
TripAdvisor/management
The home's central staircase is a complete work of art, as is nearly every square inch of this eccentric home.
TripAdvisor/management
Keeping in the fashion of Victorian style, there are all sorts of hidden design delights in Körner's Folly. Below, is a photograph of an opening on first floor, looking up to the second floor through the stairwell.
TripAdvisor/cheryl h
Speaking of the stairwell(s), all of them led to the very top floor of the home which houses a small theater where Körner hosted actual community performances.
TripAdvisor/management

Related Stories

7 Waterfront Retreats In North Carolina That Are Perfect For Warm Weather Adventures

7 Waterfront Retreats In North Carolina That Are Perfect For Warm Weather Adventures

 This Speakeasy Hidden Inside A Bar And Social House In North Carolina Is Perfect For A Date Night

This Speakeasy Hidden Inside A Bar And Social House In North Carolina Is Perfect For A Date Night

 The Little-Known Story Of Collards In North Carolina And How They Are Are Making A Big Comeback

The Little-Known Story Of Collards In North Carolina And How They Are Are Making A Big Comeback
Called Cupid's Park Theater, it's been fully restored in recent years and even hosts the occasional performance. As you can see from the odd walls and ceilings, the design of the home was quite out of the ordinary. It's said that no two doors or windows are exactly alike.
Facebook/Körner’s Folly
As you tour this whimsical house, you'll be delighted at the creative flair its designer exercised, like placing a fireplace — under the stairs!
TripAdvisor/cheryl h
And not adhering to societal standards for ceiling heights. The ceilings in the home range from 5.5 feet to 25 feet.
TripAdvisor/cheryl h
The design and the embellishments of Körner's Folly make this the strangest and the most whimsical house in North Carolina — and you'll want to visit!
TripAdvisor/cheryl h
Körner's Folly is open for self-guided public tours Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Facebook/Körner’s Folly
Admission is a mere $10 for adults, children aged 6-18 are $6, and children 5 and under are admitted free. The house is located at 413 S Main St., Kernersville, NC 27284.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles