Photo by Michael Persico

“Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without” is an adage Lindsey Scannapieco truly lives by. The founder and managing partner of Scout, a Philadelphia-based design and development practice, is behind one of the city's most celebrated adaptive-reuse projects: the Bok Building, a 340,000-square-foot former trade school she transformed into the Village of Industry and Art (VIA). Opened in 2025 after a light renovation, VIA is home to artists and makers, community organizations, entrepreneurs, and small businesses.

This summer, Scout is bringing even more life to this stretch of Broad Street in Center City. Sounds of Philadelphia, an outdoor sound installation on VIA's facade, features a playlist of music written, recorded, and inspired by Philadelphia for two hours each day through Sept. 22.

"What I love about Philadelphia is that connecting with strangers over culture and expression is so much a part of the rhythm of daily life. You're walking down the street and someone's dancing, someone's singing, people are just in it together," Lindsey, a Philadelphia native, has said. "That's the Philadelphia we wanted to bring to the front steps of VIA," a place where artists, advocates, and entrepreneurs create culture every day.

Here, Lindsey shares her thoughts on successful projects, her dream job, and the small moments that bring her joy.

What has your career path taught you about life?

Life and careers are winding paths. Things you never thought you would do, you may end up doing and actually enjoying. 

In my work, I also have learned the deep power of community.

What does a successful project look like to you?

Great spaces feel interesting, curious, and open in all the right ways. What I’m always trying to build is a space that elevates and provides space for our creative community to shine.

What would be your dream project?

A big old building with lots of interesting stuff and a massive storage area. To work with lots of great artists with an unlimited budget and to be able to consider reusing, repurposing, and reimagining in the most thoughtful and organized way.

What’s something you’ve always wanted to learn but haven’t gotten around to?

I’m a terrible surfer, but I love being batted around in the water. I aspire to be a great swimmer as I age, so maybe that’s the easier track. 

I would also love to draw better. I communicate ideas in blobs, and I'm always enamored by architects who can hand-draw beautifully quickly.

What’s been the miracle in the mundane for you lately?

I have a young baby, and I love seeing him discover the world. He is the best at showing me the miracle in the mundane: the first taste of a good summer tomato, the joy of a recognizable face, laughing while splashing water. The delight of the world—and finding those moments even in difficult times.