Providing a fun, safe, educational space just for kids

KAI was selected to provide architectural and interior design services on the Reby Cary Youth Library located in Fort Worth, Texas in the West Meadowbrook neighborhood. With the area evolving through an influx of young couples and families, the neighborhood lacked facilities specifically catering to children. The 8,000 SF, $5.49 million facility provides a well-rounded selection of informational books targeted to children’s educational and curricular-support needs. The library also provides open spaces for exploration, collaboration, socialization and learning.

During the design development phase, KAI immersed themselves into the community to gather public input in an effort to blend the building with the historical elements of the surrounding neighborhood. Named after the late Fort Worth educator who spent his life dedicated to learning, as well as breaking down racial divides, the Reby Cary Youth Library includes amenities such as a large open sensory garden to encourage neighbors to gather at the library, a maker space which utilizes technology for creative activities, and multiple study rooms. Instead of tall stacked bookshelves and hardback chairs typical of a traditional library, the facility has lower shelving and seating designed to encourage families to read together.

BIM technology was utilized to assist in the Owner’s visualization of the designs development for the library. The technology was specifically incorporated for conceptual renderings during the schematic design and design development phases. BIM technology was also utilized during the construction document phase to assist in systems coordination with other disciplines.

In addition to the core services provided, KAI was responsible for coordinating the civil, landscape, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing engineering, fire protection design, AVL/technology, and cost estimating services through our consultants.

The design team worked closely with an award-winning artist to infuse art into the building design, which allowed the Owner to reduce costs in the long run.