Gilbane Building Marks Milestone in New Dining Facility at The Fessenden School

Celebrating a New Chapter in Dining at The Fessenden School

NEWTON, Mass., Dec. 22, 2025 - Gilbane Building Company, recognized nationally for its leadership in constructing K-12 facilities, recently celebrated a significant milestone with the topping-off of a new dining facility at The Fessenden School. This event marks a critical step in the school’s pursuit of modernizing its campus while embracing sustainability.

The new dining facility, which promises to enhance both student life and community engagement, is a part of the school's broader initiative that includes renovating Sanderson Hall. The goal is to create a space that nurtures connections among students, faculty, and families, all while highlighting environmentally friendly practices.

A Vision for the Future

Michael Grossman, Chief Operations Officer at The Fessenden School, expressed the project's importance, stating, "This project is a huge priority for the school and is going to support Fessy boys for generations to come. Thanks to Gilbane's dedication and attention to detail, we can see this vision coming to life today."

Gilbane’s Managing Director, Dan Gilbane, emphasized the significance of safety and community involvement in their projects. He remarked, "We are committed to not just building structures but enhancing the communities we are part of. Delivering unique solutions like mass timber is part of our strategy, showcasing our commitment to sustainability."

This innovative dining hall will accommodate a wide array of needs, serving over 1,000 meals per day. An all-electric kitchen will support eco-friendly operations, while the flexible dining room layout will cater to both boarding and day students, as well as faculty and families. The design features two dining zones allowing for diverse meal services throughout the day, with a central servery fostering family-style dining traditions.

Architectural Excellence

Covering nearly 20,000 square feet, the facility will incorporate a renewable mass timber structure, aligning with the Massachusetts Specialized Opt-In Stretch Energy Code for sustainability. Its exterior will complement the school's historic aesthetic while introducing various materials for visual appeal. Additionally, outdoor enhancements like a patio along with refreshed landscaping will create inviting gathering spaces.

Renovation Plans for Sanderson Hall

In addition to the dining facility, the renovation plans for Sanderson Hall will transform the 8,000 square foot building into a vibrant student center. This revamped space will serve as a multifunctional hub, offering areas for events involving faculty and parents, student activities, and administrative offices. The renovation will foster a lively, engaged community atmosphere within the school.

Commitment to Sustainability and Tradition

These bold initiatives reflect The Fessenden School's unwavering commitment to enhancing the educational experience, enriching community ties, and ensuring that modern facilities uphold the school's values of tradition and environmental responsibility.

About Gilbane Building Company

Founded in 1870, Gilbane Building Company is a pioneer in construction management, providing a wide range of construction and facilities-related services. With more than 45 global offices, Gilbane continues to drive forward in various markets, focusing on quality, safety, and community impact. For more details, visit Gilbane's website.