KAI designed a light and flexible space for the Reby Cary Youth Library in Fort Worth, Texas.

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 library 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.

The design team worked closely with award-winning artist Creative Machines to create an interactive, suspended public art installation from the ceiling called “Only Connect”. The remarkable installation is made up of over 20,000 glass marbles and features cascading LED lights that can be controlled by visitors by manipulating its lighting colors and patterns through the simple touch of a button using sensor points distributed throughout the library.

Design: KAI
Contractor: FPI Builders
Photography: Wade Griffith