Grace Farms

Sciame was the Construction Manager responsible for the new construction of Grace Farms, a cultural and humanitarian center located on an 80-acre estate in New Canaan, Connecticut. The project was designed by SANAA, the Tokyo-based Pritzker Prize–winning firm known for the New Museum of Contemporary Art.

Grace Farms is an expansive campus-like layout that winds around the natural settings and trees. The individual buildings are connected by a covered walkway supported by steel columns and wood trusses. Minimal glass enclosures make up each building that includes a sanctuary, gymnasium, and dining hall. The glass is curved insulated units that contain no vertical supports so that each building seems to disappear into the natural setting.

Geothermal wells and an intricate underground mechanical system provide cooling and heating to each building. The landscaping includes restoring the estate to a natural northeastern ecosystem through native plantings and prairies. A meandering path wraps around the site connecting the main building to athletic fields and an old barn restored for classroom and administrative use.