Grace Farms is tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood in New Canaan, Connecticut but this architectural masterpiece is not to be missed if you’re in the area. Grace Farms was built as a gift to the local community (entry to the property is free), and it welcomes visitors from all over the world. Guests are welcome to explore the grounds and its various modern structures. On any given day, you’ll find travelers taking photos and enjoying a cup of coffee or a bite to eat in the Commons Café.
Grace Farms officially opened to the public in 2015, and it sits on 80 acres in New Canaan, near the New York state border. 77 of those acres are being retained as open meadows, woods, wetlands, and ponds. It was designed by the Japanese architecture firm, SANAA, who also designed the New Museum in Manhattan. New Canaan, which is also home to the Philip Johnson Glass House, has a history of being an architectural hot spot. If you visit, both Grace Farms and the Glass House are definitely worth exploring.
Grace Farms is beautiful at all times of the year, but I love the greenery in the summertime. The modern architecture and the natural landscaping creates a unique juxtaposition. Since the buildings have so many windows, you can really take in the property whether you are inside or outside.
The light filled Commons Café is perfect for lunch or a cup of coffee– the menu offers a variety of seasonal and locally-sourced options. In the winter, the cafe is warm and cozy with a view of the property blanketed in snow. I love setting up at one of the long tables with my laptop and spending the afternoon getting some work done. In the summertime, the café is a respite from the heat and a lovely place to enjoy an iced tea while taking in the lush surroundings.
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