Pomfret School – Venue for Innovation, Science, Technology, and Academics (VISTA)

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Location
Pomfret, CT
Project Type
Ground-Up
Duration
18 Months
Square Footage
22,000 sf
Partners
Annum Architects

The Venue for Innovation, Science, Technology, and Academics (VISTA) is a cutting-edge facility that redefines science and technology education at Pomfret School. Positioned on the main academic quad, this three-story building houses state-of-the-art labs for Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Environmental Science, and Innovation, with each level offering open Science Commons to encourage collaboration, idea-sharing, and exhibition of student work.

Constructed with precision to align with the existing campus architecture, VISTA features a façade of regionally sourced, multi-tone terra cotta metal panels that complement the materiality of surrounding buildings. Large glass expanses bring natural light deep into each lab space while visually connecting indoor activities to the wider campus. The building’s footprint is slightly adjusted from the previous Monell Science Building to provide expansive views of Pomfret’s grounds and playing fields.

The project incorporates advanced structural systems to support its highly adaptable lab spaces and multipurpose areas, including The Hub—a central gathering space designed for both all-school events and science-focused activities. Adjacent to the Innovation Lab, the outdoor Maker Yard extends hands-on learning beyond the classroom, while a nearby hillside is reconfigured as an outdoor amphitheater, creating a natural, tiered setting for larger gatherings and classes.

Through thoughtful design and construction techniques, VISTA is built not only as a high-performance educational facility but also as a lasting architectural contribution to Pomfret’s 500-acre campus. The building’s infrastructure integrates adaptable systems and environmentally responsible materials, ensuring it will serve as a premier center for science and collaboration for generations to come.

Outdoor shot of modern VISTA building in distance
Chuck Choi
Outdoor shot of modern VISTA building in distance
Chuck Choi
Students working in lobby area of VISTA
Chuck Choi
Students in lobby area of VISTA
Chuck Choi
Students working together in VISTA
Chuck Choi
Scientist working in lab at VISTA
Chuck Choi
Students in classroom at VISTA
Chuck Choi
Students working and talking in VISTA
Chuck Choi
Students working in hallway of VISTA
Chuck Choi
People standing in field with modern VISTA building in distance
Chuck Choi
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Outdoor shot of modern VISTA building in distance
Outdoor shot of modern VISTA building in distance
Students working in lobby area of VISTA
Students in lobby area of VISTA
Students working together in VISTA
Scientist working in lab at VISTA
Students in classroom at VISTA
Students working and talking in VISTA
Students working in hallway of VISTA
People standing in field with modern VISTA building in distance