Vancouver Innovation, Technology and Arts Elementary School (VITA)

Designing a flexible, future-ready STEAM learning environment to elevate student engagement and support active, project-based instruction.

Introduction

Vancouver Public Schools envisioned a next-generation K–5 STEAM school that would break away from traditional classroom models. Their goal was to create highly flexible “learning studios” that encourage exploration, collaboration, and project-based learning. Hyphn was engaged to design and outfit these active learning environments, ensuring that the furnishings would support the district’s new instructional pedagogy and elevate the student experience.

Objectives & Scope

Support project-based, active learning pedagogy
Create interconnected, flexible learning studios
Enhance student engagement, involvement, and experience
Integrate indoor/outdoor learning opportunities
Align furnishings with VITA’s space-exploration theme

Approach

Hyphn collaborated closely with Vancouver Public Schools and LSW Architects to understand the functional and experiential goals for the new STEAM program. The team developed a comprehensive furniture strategy focused on mobility, durability, flexibility, and student agency. Through thoughtful programming and intentional design discussions, Hyphn ensured the furnishings not only supported instructional needs but also reinforced the school’s thematic vision of space exploration.

Outcomes & Impact

The resulting environment provides students and teachers with adaptable, inspiring learning spaces that can be easily reconfigured for projects, collaboration, and hands-on exploration. Interconnected studios, outdoor learning extensions, and thematic design elements contribute to an aspirational environment where students are encouraged to think creatively and dream big.

Key Takeaways

Flexible, mobile furniture empowers students and teachers to shape their learning environments.
Thematic design and furnishings can reinforce school identity and inspire student curiosity.
Integrated indoor–outdoor learning spaces expand opportunities for hands-on exploration.

“Our goal for this facility was more flexibility and more variety with student seating as well as offering more non-traditional furnishings to support the non-traditional pedagogy of the facility. The entire experience and process with Hyphn made my job easier and delivered polished, modern furnishings for the school.”

Whitney Henion
Capital Project Lead (former),
Vancouver Public Schools