The Cornwell House (also known as the Frank Lloyd Wright Waikii Ranch House) boasts a fascinating history, originally conceived by the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1954 for the Cornwell family in Pennsylvania. Decades later, in 1995, Wright’s timeless vision was brought to life in a stunning new location: the Big Island of Hawaii.
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Wright’s Vision Realized
Built meticulously according to his original plans, this unique residence stands as an embodiment of Wright’s genius. John Rattenbury, a key figure from Taliesin Associated Architects, was instrumental in bringing this unbuilt plan to fruition. The home features Wright’s signature passive solar hemicycle structure, encompassing three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings.
Today, the Cornwell House offers a rare opportunity to experience Wright’s architectural brilliance firsthand, as it is available for overnight stays. Guests can immerse themselves in the authentic Wright experience, surrounded by licensed reproductions of his iconic furniture that perfectly complement the home’s distinctive design. Beyond its architectural marvels, the property provides breathtaking ocean views and an inviting outdoor lava-rock hot tub, blending luxurious comfort with the serene beauty of the Hawaiian landscape.
Plan Your Visit
Location 📍
The Cornwell House is located in Waimea (Kamuela) on the Big Island of Hawaii. The property is situated on a three-acre gated lot between the Kohala Coast and the town center, perched over the Waiaka stream with panoramic views of three volcanoes: Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualalai.
To maintain the historical integrity and guest privacy of this Frank Lloyd Wright residence, the full location and check-in details are provided exclusively to guests upon a confirmed reservation.
Stay the Night 🛏️
The Cornwell House is available for overnight rentals. It features three bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, licensed reproductions of Wright-designed furniture, and an outdoor lava-rock hot tub. Check Rates & Availability to view additional photos and book your stay.
Make it a Trip 🧳
If you are exploring the architecture of the islands, a visit to the Cornwell House is best paired with a trip to Maui to see the King Kamehameha Golf Club. While the Cornwell House is Wright’s only residential design in Hawaii, the clubhouse on Maui offers a grand-scale commercial adaptation of his unbuilt residential work.
Additional Resources & Inspired Products
Find unique products, books, and gifts inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy at our Amazon storefront: Wright at Home!
- Hawaii the Big Island Revealed: The Ultimate Guidebook Paperback by Andrew Doughty
- Georgia in Hawaii: When Georgia O’Keeffe Painted What She Pleased by Amy Novesky (Author), Yuyi Morales (Illustrator)
