A unique piece of architectural history has come on the market in Cornwall, England, offering buyers a rare opportunity to own a property directly inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie School style. The former Fellover School, designed by Ronald Sims in 1961, sits on three acres of picturesque riverbank near Bodmin and represents a fascinating fusion of American modernist architecture with the English countryside.
Sims designed this remarkable structure shortly after returning to England from an extended stay in America, where he absorbed the philosophies and techniques of the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Some architectural historians believe Sims may have even worked directly in Wright's Illinois office during his time abroad. The influence is unmistakable in the building's characteristic low, horizontal roofline, prominently positioned central chimney, and extensive banks of windows that blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces.
Originally commissioned as a residential structure that would incorporate a small private school, the building showcases the Prairie style's emphasis on harmony with the natural landscape. The bucolic riverside setting perfectly complements the architectural approach, with the horizontal lines of the structure echoing the gentle contours of the Cornish countryside. The current owner has undertaken a respectful renovation to transform the property into a family home while carefully preserving the building's original character and architectural integrity.
The conversion process involved transforming the former school hall into the main reception room, a dramatic space that serves as the heart of the home. Original wood features have been meticulously maintained throughout the renovation, and the vast upper-level terrace remains a standout feature offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. However, potential buyers should be prepared for some necessary updates, including reclaiming parts of the building from the encroaching natural landscape and replacing aging elements such as cabinetry, carpets, and the scuffed teak parquet flooring.
The current layout represents a masterclass in modernist design principles, featuring bright, open spaces that flow seamlessly from one area to the next while maximizing views throughout the property. Visitors enter through a light-filled entrance hall that leads directly into the main reception room, where banks of timber-framed glazing were originally positioned at desk height to accommodate working students. The glazing now serves as a stunning architectural feature that floods the space with natural light throughout the day.
Shallow steps at the rear of the reception area lead to a comfortable sitting room that has been styled around a contemporary wood-burning stove. This cozy space features multiple windows and doors that provide direct access to the exterior, maintaining the Prairie style's emphasis on indoor-outdoor living. Adjacent to the sitting room, an open-plan kitchen flows into a lounge area distinguished by a granite hearth set into a distinctive curved wall that serves as one of the home's most striking architectural elements.
The property's library, accessed by two steps from the main living area, reflects the sophisticated tastes of its architect-designed origins. Built-in teak shelving lines the walls, creating a scholarly atmosphere that would befit any architecture enthusiast or book collector. This space exemplifies the attention to detail and craftsmanship that characterizes the entire structure.
A feature staircase leads to the upper level, where the principal bedroom occupies a prime position above the lounge. This master suite shares the distinctive curved wall feature and benefits from expansive windows that open directly onto the impressive upper terrace. The en suite bathroom, while perfectly functional, serves as a fascinating time capsule of 1960s design aesthetics, preserving the era's characteristic fixtures and styling.
The upper floor accommodates a total of three bedrooms, along with a renovated family bathroom that has been updated for modern convenience while respecting the building's overall design language. Additional accommodation is provided in an annex located off the garage, which houses two more bedrooms, a shower room, and a kitchenette, bringing the total sleeping capacity to five bedrooms across the property.
The three-acre grounds are as impressive as the architecture itself, featuring manicured lawns, mature woodland, and an impressive collection of modernist outdoor sculptures that complement the building's aesthetic. The property includes 180 meters of riverbank frontage, providing both privacy and direct access to the water. The landscape design reflects the same principles as the architecture, creating seamless transitions between different outdoor spaces while preserving the natural beauty of the Cornish setting.
Fellover School is currently listed for £1,650,000 (approximately $2 million) through The Modern House, a specialist agency known for marketing exceptional modernist properties. The listing represents a rare opportunity for buyers interested in architectural history, as properties directly influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright's work are extremely uncommon in the British market. The combination of architectural significance, stunning natural setting, and thoughtful renovation makes this property a unique offering for discerning buyers seeking something truly special in the Cornwall real estate market.
