Inside Nikki Glazer’s Mid-Century Cottage in Old Greenwich, Connecticut

From the outside, Nikki Glazer’s mid-century flat-roof cottage in Old Greenwich, Connecticut, looks deceptively simple. It doesn’t need to shout—inside, the space reveals itself slowly, in a mix of utilitarian charm and artful eclecticism. Here, design feels lived-in, thoughtful, and functional, with every corner curated to support work, relaxation, and entertaining.

Glazer, an entrepreneur and the founder/director of GrayBarns, splits her time between real estate development, creative consulting, and pop-up activations for retail brands. But life here is about more than work. After years in San Francisco and Brooklyn, she gradually returned to the town where she grew up, drawn by green space, quiet, and a view of the water that recalls her childhood. “It’s a big boomerang,” she says.

The cottage, built in the 1950s, has a quirky charm that instantly drew her in. A stainless steel kitchen—likely from the same era—still works perfectly, allowing her to cook and entertain without missing a beat. “Little things that make it feel special, things you wouldn’t find in a cookie-cutter home,” she says.

Glazer’s approach to her home is as much about function as it is about aesthetics. She reconfigured the open living and dining spaces to feel more livable, maximized the outdoor patio for gatherings, and outfitted the home with furniture collected over the years. Hosting is in her blood, and the space reflects it: long meals around her dining table, outdoor brunches, pie dinners, and even lobster boils inspired by childhood summers. Alfresco gatherings flow seamlessly into indoor spaces, where comfort and practicality meet thoughtful design.

Personal touches abound. Her bedroom features a cozy corner chair overlooking the water—a favorite spot for morning coffee or evening reflection. Art fills the home, often from friends or meaningful gifts: a photograph by Anouk capturing the American West, a prized Muhammad Ali print from her brother’s gym, and vessels for cut flowers gifted by her mother. Each piece carries a story, connecting past and present in ways that feel effortless.

Despite the home’s modest size—about 1,500 square feet—Glazer has created a layered, tactile environment. Warm textiles, natural fibers, and a touch of beachy whimsy complement the mid-century bones, reflecting influences like Jake Arnold, John Bambick, and Axel Vervoort. There’s a rhythm to the space, a balance of quiet corners and social hubs that allows her to live, work, and entertain with ease.

For Glazer, the best memories are simple but unforgettable: a big birthday dinner in the backyard, mornings tending her plants, paddleboarding or swimming in the summer, and evenings exploring the rocky shoreline. “It’s the slow, intentional moments that make it feel like home,” she says.

In the end, this cottage is a reflection of her life philosophy: utilitarian yet artful, curated yet comfortable, and always ready to welcome friends, family, or a quiet moment alone. It’s a home meant to be lived in, where the water is never far from view, and every detail serves a purpose.