A Former Victorian Schoolhouse Becomes an Eclectic English Home

Architect, interior designer, and artist Jacu Strauss has created a home in the English countryside that feels like a living collection of art, history, and unexpected discoveries.

Located in the village of Bewdley in Worcestershire, his home occupies a former Victorian schoolhouse built in 1850, which he lovingly renovated to celebrate its original architectural character while introducing a distinctly contemporary point of view.

Inside, soaring ceilings, exposed timber beams, and beautiful natural light set the stage for an eclectic mix of antique portraits, classical statues, contemporary furniture, and one-of-a-kind finds collected from around the world.

From a pair of chairs used during King Charles III’s investiture ceremony to a hidden television disguised as artwork, every corner reveals something unexpected. Jacu’s approach to design is all about contrast, experimentation, and personal expression.

By blending old and new, rough and smooth, and simplicity with carefully curated collections, he has created a home that feels both visually captivating and deeply personal. His favorite spaces balance practicality with moments of delight, proving that even a smaller home can feel magical when every detail has a purpose.