Korner’s Folly

413 S. Main St., Kernersville
336/996-7922
www.kornersfolly.org [1]

HOURS: Thurs.–Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 1–4 p.m.

COST: $8 adults, $4 children 6–18, free children under 6

Jules Korner designed this home as a bachelor pad and showroom for his interior design work. It dates back to 1880 and has living quarters, an art studio, office, billiard room, ballroom, carriage house, and stables.

To show off his design skills, Korner designed the home in multiple levels with ceiling heights ranging from 6 feet to 25 feet, differing door heights and widths, 15 fireplaces, pivoting windows, trap doors, and hiding places.

The odd architecture caused a relative to comment, “That will surely be Jules Korner’s folly.” Rather than being offended by the comment, Korner embraced its quirkiness and began calling the home Korner’s Folly—he even went so far as to set the name in tile outside the front door.

Though the home was completed in 1880, Korner continued to redesign and renovate its 22 rooms, adding a number of odd murals, tiles, and artwork.

A nonprofit organization owns and maintains the home, preserving the unique dwelling as a tribute to its former owner.