In the current research, we investigate the mechanical behavior of Soft-Hard Active-Passive Embedded Structures (SHAPES), specifically in the context of plate and beam configurations. The structural model is built upon a variable kinematics approach based on the sublaminate Generalized Unified Formulation (sGUF). This method allows for local refinement of the kinematic model, providing a detailed representation of displacements or local stresses, while directly reducing the computational burden associated with the numerical model. To incorporate the behavior of electro- and thermo-active material layers within the composite stack, we employ a physics-based regression technique referred to as the Stimulus-Expansion-Model (SEM). This approach enables the determination of homogenized active properties for smart materials such as piezoelectrics, electro-active polymers (EAPs), hydrogels, dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) etc. The combination of sGUF with SEM, referred to as the “sGUF-SEM” approach, results in a powerful modeling technique that captures the complex interactions within the smart structure. In the present work, the outlined modeling technique is implemented within the framework of Finite Element Method (FEM), extending the authors’ previous research. An 8-node serendipity 2D plate element is derived, featuring a field-compatible interpolation for the transverse strain field to address the shear locking pathology. The proposed finite element approach is validated through comparisons with strong-form and Navier-type solutions, as well as three-dimensional Finite Element simulations in commercial software, demonstrating its efficiency and accuracy in modeling the behavior of electro- and thermo-activated structures. Our model can thus be useful in controlling the deformation mechanisms of beams, plates, and shell-forming structures.