Restrained Maximalism at the Historic Chesapeake Bay Retreat

A Historic Home Reimagined for Modern Living

Nestled along the scenic shores of the Chesapeake Bay, a stately 1920s summer retreat has been transformed into a vibrant yet livable family residence. The project, led by acclaimed designer Corey Damen Jenkins, demonstrates how restrained maximalism can breathe new life into a historic property while maintaining its architectural integrity.

The home, built in the tradition of American Colonial Revival architecture, originally reflected the grandeur of its era. However, the current owners envisioned something more approachable—an interior that would celebrate history but also feel warm, inviting, and suitable for a growing family. Jenkins, celebrated for his polished traditionalism infused with modern energy, delivered a design that honors the past while embracing the present.

Corey Damen Jenkins and His Design Philosophy

Based in New York, Corey Damen Jenkins has made a name for himself by blending elegance, color, and whimsy in a way that feels both timeless and refreshing. His approach prioritizes a client’s individuality, ensuring their tastes and collections remain at the heart of the project.

“What I always tell my team,” Jenkins explains, “is that a client’s vision, taste, and collection are like bricks in a wall, and we are the mortar holding it all together. In the end, you should see the client’s personality, not ours.”

This philosophy is on full display in the Chesapeake Bay retreat, where antiques, family heirlooms, and curated contemporary touches seamlessly coexist.

The Concept of Restrained Maximalism

At the center of this redesign is Jenkins’s use of restrained maximalism. This concept balances bold colors, textures, and layers with thoughtful discipline. Rather than overwhelming the eye, Jenkins creates rooms that feel curated and deeply personal without sacrificing harmony.

From sunshine-yellow wall coverings to scenic murals and antique furnishings, every space celebrates character, but nothing feels excessive. The secret, Jenkins says, is restraint—an understanding of when to push design boundaries and when to step back.

The Welcoming Front Hall

Visitors are immediately greeted by an uplifting and energetic front hall. Here, the walls are wrapped in a cheerful yellow grasscloth by Kravet, glazed with plaster by local artisans to add a soft patina. The choice reflects the homeowner’s love for yellow, creating a sense of joy and optimism the moment you step inside.

The furnishings include a pair of reupholstered armchairs in a blue-striped fabric, a bespoke skirted loveseat, and a gilded Aerin floor lamp. Blue-and-white floral draperies tie the color story together, while two antique wooden swans hold pride of place on a console table near the entrance.

This balance of new and old is the perfect introduction to the home’s design narrative.

A Staircase Leading to Stories

A plaid stair runner in sky blue by Patterson Flynn carries the coastal palette upwards, guiding guests to the second floor. Along the way, the walls showcase carefully curated decorative elements, including a vintage sunburst mirror and a delicate flock of crystal swallows from Lalique.

Every detail is intentional, marrying historical references with modern luxury.

The Library of Calm and Character

Upstairs, a second-floor library highlights Jenkins’s ability to mix storytelling with comfort. The walls feature a scenic mural in hues of teal and mossy green, evoking the serenity of coastal landscapes. A leather-topped table, vintage chairs, and a cluster of antique seating create a cozy yet sophisticated environment for reading and reflection.

This space embodies the core of restrained maximalism: layered textures, curated antiques, and a bold mural balanced by an atmosphere of calm.

The Guest Rooms: Sunshine and Simplicity

Jenkins returned to the homeowner’s love for yellow when designing one of the guest rooms. Wrapped in a two-toned botanical wall covering from John Rosselli & Associates, the room radiates warmth and cheer. To keep the bold wallpaper from overwhelming the space, Jenkins paired it with simple linen drapery and a crisp white ceiling.

“The best maximalism is governed by restraint,” Jenkins notes. The room proves that even busy patterns can feel elegant when balanced with simplicity.

Outdoor Rooms and Waterfront Views

One of the most striking features of the property is its connection to the natural environment of the Chesapeake Bay. Covered porches serve as outdoor rooms, extending the living spaces into the landscape.

The rear terrace, overlooking the water, stays true to the coastal-inspired palette with blue and white furnishings. An installation of antique Moroccan plates adds unexpected charm, bridging cultural artistry with the maritime setting.

A Home That Celebrates Personality

Throughout the home, Jenkins skillfully incorporated the clients’ existing pieces. A Louis XVI daybed, vintage mirrors, and family antiques blend effortlessly with new commissions and bold design choices. This not only preserves personal history but also ensures the home feels authentic to its owners.

The goal was never to create a designer showpiece, but rather a living home—one that reflects the family’s personality, supports their daily life, and honors the spirit of the Chesapeake Bay.

Why This Chesapeake Bay Retreat Matters

The transformation of this historic summer home offers important lessons for homeowners, designers, and design enthusiasts alike:

• Respect the past: Historic architecture provides a strong foundation that can be enhanced, not erased.

• Embrace personality: Using existing collections and favorite colors ensures a design feels personal and lasting.

• Practice restraint: Maximalism is not about excess—it’s about thoughtful layering, balance, and harmony.

• Celebrate nature: A home that acknowledges its surroundings feels rooted and timeless.

Corey Damen Jenkins’s Broader Impact

This Chesapeake Bay retreat is one of ten featured projects in Jenkins’s new book, Design Reimagined. As a companion to his debut monograph, the book highlights his unique talent for creating polished traditional interiors that embrace boldness without losing touch with livability.

His work continues to inspire both professionals and homeowners who seek to merge history, elegance, and modern comfort.

Final Thoughts

The historic Chesapeake Bay retreat redesigned by Corey Damen Jenkins stands as a stunning example of restrained maximalism in practice. It proves that grand historic homes can be reimagined for modern living without losing their soul.

Through bold color choices, curated antiques, and respect for personal history, Jenkins has created more than just a home—he has crafted a sanctuary where family, history, and nature harmonize.

For anyone considering a renovation of a historic property, this project offers a masterclass in balance: knowing when to celebrate abundance and when to let restraint guide the way.