Designed by Jaimie Baird
NEWS | ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN
A mid-century modern house in Lincoln, Massachusetts, projected by renowned architect John Quincy Adams, has been expertly revitalized with a new interior design led by Jaimie Baird. Nestled in a serene nature reserve, this 1952 home serves as a peaceful retreat for the resident family, blending indoor and outdoor spaces in perfect harmony.
Before beginning the interior design process, the home required essential structural renovations due to its age. The family made the thoughtful decision to preserve the original design’s intent of connecting the interior and exterior while modernizing the layout with a fresh, contemporary aesthetic. One of the key updates was the expansion of several windows, creating sweeping views of the nearby river and surrounding forest, further enhancing the seamless integration of nature and living spaces.
In both the four-bedroom main house and the adjacent heating cabin, Baird’s design drew inspiration from the natural surroundings and the home’s historical roots. Understanding that the family frequently hosts guests, she placed a strong emphasis on communal areas. “Creating spaces for gathering was essential,” says Baird to Architectural Digest magazine. She commissioned a custom dining table designed to seat 14 people and selected mid-century modern inspired seatings such as the Apollo Bar Stools by Duistt, ensuring maximum comfort. The large windows throughout the home guided her furniture arrangement, allowing for a continuous visual flow between the indoors and outdoors. The lighting design was also intentional, offering soft illumination that remains subtle from the outside.
Although the home boasts nearly 10,000 square feet of living space, it retains a warm, inviting, and casual atmosphere. The design’s color palette was inspired by a 1970s raw fiber tapestry created by the late artist Romeo Reyna for the designer Steve Chase. Hung above the sofa in the living room, the tapestry’s rich textures and earth tones, including browns, reds, greens, and taupe, influenced the selection of furniture, rugs, and patterns seen throughout the house.
Key design elements also include wallpaper in the bedrooms and office, marble countertops with striking veining, custom oak cabinetry, terracotta tiles, and metallic accents. These features add a sophisticated contrast to the overall mid-century modern decor. Throughout the project, Baird maintained a careful balance between honoring the past and embracing the present, resulting in a home that feels both tranquil and timeless.