Grace Farms Recognized by ENR New England and AIA
by: Kelly Sheridan
Grace Farms River Building was named the ENR New England 2016 Project of the Year in the Cultural/Worship category, and was also recognized with a 2017 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Award.
In the 1940s, Grace Farms was a patchwork of small-scale farmsteads in Connecticut. Grace Farms has since revitalized its 80 acres to open space for people to experience nature, encounter the arts, pursue justice, foster community, and explore faith.
Langan performed geotechnical engineering services for the River Building, an 85,000-GSF structure nestled into the rolling landscape of Grace Farms. This building includes a sanctuary, library, office, living/dining space, foyer, and gymnasium. Phase I included the demolition of the center section of an existing horse barn, renovation of existing parts of the horse barn, construction of a new courtyard between the parts of the barn and the associated site work. Phase II consisted of the construction of various new structures connected by the covered walkway in the center of the site.
ENR New England Best Projects awards recognize outstanding construction and design in the region. Projects are evaluated based on the ability to overcome challenges; the project’s contribution to the industry and community; safety; and construction and design quality.
AIA’s 2017 Architecture program celebrates the best contemporary architecture, recognizing projects that improve their communities.