Firmly Planted Family
Community Center Renovation and Code Review
Swerhone Architecture is back working with Firmly Planted Family (FPF) to help transform a 50,000-square-foot office building in Vancouver, WA, into a vibrant community learning center. After assisting with their previous location, Derrick is excited to be part of this next chapter, made possible by FPF’s continued growth. The new facility will serve as a full-time resource center, offering tutoring, training, and enrichment programs in academics, the arts, trades, and athletics—all designed to support families as they learn and grow together.
FPF CEO Jay St. John and co-founder Heidi have spent the last 25 years building a strong, successful program. The current building upgrades are planned in three phases to support their continued growth.
Phase 1
As architects, our first job was to fit FPF’s operations and functions into the existing building. FPF shared their preferred layout, including how spaces should relate, flow from public to private, and support both group and individual use. The goal is to create a complete space plan that meets their current needs and allows for future growth. With more people using the space, new exit routes, security features, and access points are key to making the plan work.
At the same time, the building’s use had to comply with the City Zoning District regulations. FPF’s innovative model doesn’t follow a traditional classroom setup. Instead, it operates more like a Community Resource Center—classified as a Group Business use—focused on adult education and skill-building. Derrick is working closely with local building officials to secure approvals, review safety plans, and ensure the space is ready to welcome the community.
Phase 2
The next phase of work focuses on transforming the East Wing—an underused part of the building that previously served as a warehouse and storage space. Swerhone Architecture is helping convert this 5,000-square-foot area into a dynamic gymnasium, complete with new restrooms and storage to support active programs.
This wing will also include new studio spaces for art, industrial arts, and general classroom use—supporting hands-on learning across a range of subjects. To make the space comfortable and efficient, a new HVAC system and upgraded air handling equipment will be installed.
Together, these improvements will expand opportunities for students to develop both creative and physical skills, helping FPF continue its mission of whole-family education.
Phase 3
With Phase 1 and 2 complete, the building is fully occupied and operations are running smoothly. Phase 3 focuses on remodeling the south entry to create a secure, welcoming space for parents and families. Plans include a new “Family Room,” along with a bookstore, coffee shop, and secure check-in area. Swerhone Architect is designing these improvements using 3D modeling and will share the updated plans as they develop.
Location: Vancouver, WA
