Mid-century classic in Lincoln up for grabs

Inspired by behaviorist B.F. Skinner’s book “Walden Two” — about a community striving toward a utopia and with a strict edict of “no capes, colonials, or ranches” — the Lincoln community of Brown’s Wood was to be an experiment in 1950’s modern living.

The families that bought the roughly two dozen plots of land were staunchly protective of the land they took on, their planned community, and the architecture of their unique homes, which survive to this day in this private, wooded Modernist sanctuary.

If this is an auspicious introduction to the 1957 Walter Pierce mid-century modern beauty at 37 Laurel Dr. in Lincoln, it’s only because the home deserves it. Lovingly expanded on by subsequent owners while retaining its original character, the home presents a rare opportunity to join this ongoing experiment.

While Walter Pierce is better known for his work in Lexington’s Peacock Farm, 37 Laurel Dr. is a significant style departure, embracing the International style. Big glass walls that draw the tree-filled lot in as part and parcel of the home, elements of post-and-beam and thoughtful framing, and a whimsical architectural staircase are just a few of the home’s moments of design joy.

There are practical details: three bedrooms, two bathrooms and close to 3,200 square feet are complemented by an extensive, more than 1-acre lot and ample patio and deck space to enjoy the serene surroundings.

Laid out across three floors with a family room on the lower level, the home’s main floor includes two bedrooms, a huge, sunny kitchen, a living room with a stacked fireplace that extends to the second floor, and an inspiring dining room with a view of the treeline and sliders to a deck and a paved patio. The second floor is entirely dedicated to the master suite, which enjoys a generous sitting area around the double-stacked fireplace, and access to its own private deck.

A detached garage and ample parking at the home’s cul-de-sac location, plus a membership share in exclusive Valley Pond for swimming and (non-motor) boating complete this singular property.

Virtual tours are available at modernmass.com. To find out more about the home or to arrange a showing, contact Bill Janovitz with The Janovitz + Tse Team at Compass, 781-856-0992.

Home Showcase:

Address: 37 Laurel Dr., Lincoln

Bedrooms: 3

List Price: $1,400,000

Square feet: 3,190

Price per square foot: $439

Annual taxes: $12,433 in 2019

Location: Historic, architectural enclave

Built in: 1957

The Appraisal:

Pros:

Iconic mid-century modern design
Tight-knit community

Cons:

Unique layout

from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/2X7WVmT