Fort Worth's educational scene is about to witness a major upgrade with Fort Worth Country Day embarking on the construction of a brand-new $25 million facility for its youngest scholars. Dubbed the Annie Richardson Bass Lower School, this modern marvel will cater to grades one through four and is slated to open its doors in Spring 2025 on the school's sprawling 104-acre campus.
Sparing no expense, the new 32,720-square-foot structure is a testament to the school's commitment to the trifecta of academic excellence, arts enrichment, and athletic rigor. The self-contained development boasts everything from floor-to-ceiling windows and science labs to a state-of-the-art library, complete with a nostalgic touch - a fireplace, reminiscent of the original structure demolished for the project, as per the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Ensuring safety remains a priority, the facility integrates features like a single-entry point and a storm-resistant safety shelter reinforced to endure up to 250 mph winds. "It will have a strong connection to our campus’s amazing outdoors, while also giving our faculty and students first-class spaces to inspire the highest level of elementary-appropriate learning,” Eric Lombardi, head of school at FWCD, described the project's intent, as conveyed by FWTX.com.
More than just classrooms, the building introduces enhanced learning zones with covered outdoor spaces, sports courts, and playgrounds tailored for child interaction and development. Lake Flato Architects is leading the design efforts, while Linbeck has taken the helm as a general contractor, ensuring a seamless fusion of aesthetics and functionality that characterizes an adept approach to educational environments.
Generously funded by the "Forward Together" campaign, which raised $31 million through contributions from 100 school families and 70 faculty and staff members, the project not only signifies a leap into the future for current students but also pays homage to the institution's legacy, as noted by Whitney Creel, alumnus and donor to the project. "That makes me very excited because it’s new, but we are also holding on to our heritage and kind of keeping the staples of things that stay in your memory forever," she expressed, per the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
