Learning technology company D2L (formerly Desire2Learn), the company behind online learning platform Brightspace, is going analog with its latest stunt by showcasing how it would reimagine a different learning platform: the classroom desk.

With the help of industrial designer Miles Keller and creative AOR Zulu Alpha Kilo, the company has unveiled its own, one-of-a-kind desk that is entirely customizable to meet the needs or desires of each individual student. Zulu conceived of the desk, while Keller helped the agency make it a reality.

“The D2L desk uses hinged panels made from Nordic wood – inspired by traditional school desks – that can be moved to create different shapes, accommodating students who might prefer to lay back and read, those who like to work alone or in pairs, or even students who might want something new each day,” explains Brian Murray, chief creative officer at Zulu.

“It’s a desk that’s different for every kid, because every kid is different,” adds Keller. “I’m hoping that with a little refinement, we might eventually see desks like this in classrooms around the world.”

The desk is showcased in a video shot by Zulu’s production arm, Zulubot, that is running across YouTube, LinkedIn, Meta, Reddit and Google’s DV360, with targeted PR support from Walker Sands. It serves as a reminder of D2L’s core ethos as a company: learning can change the world.

“D2L has always been guided by the simple idea that every learner is unique, and that their learning platform should be, too,” explains John Baker, CEO of D2L. “The desk is a metaphor – a tangible example of how people benefit from being able to adapt their learning environment to better fit their learning needs and help them generate those sparks of enlightenment that lead to growth, innovation and transformation.”