River Torrens-inspired university design embraces bespoke furniture and natural ombre palette

This extraordinary education industry project represents a collaboration of visionary minds. Designed by Architectus for Walker Corporation and Flinders University, Workspace Commercial Furniture fitted the new vertical campus with bespoke commercial furniture with tones reflecting Eucalypts lining the banks of the Karrawirra Pari (River Torrens).

The Flinders University City Campus project presented a unique challenge: to create a space that seamlessly integrates functionality, aesthetics and cultural sensitivity across eight floors.

Collaborating closely with Architectus, Workspace Commercial Furniture embarked on a journey to craft bespoke furniture solutions that would reflect the essence of Flinders University's aspirations with a vision taken from the nearby natural landscape.

“Architectus, renowned for its innovative approach to design, envisioned a campus that not only embraced modernity but also honoured the land's cultural and natural heritage,” says Amanda Timms, Marketing, Media & Events Coordinator at Workspace Commercial Furniture.

Inspired by the nearby Karrawirra Pari (River Torrens), each campus level was imbued with a distinct colour scheme––transitioning from earthy tones to lush greens as one ascends, mirroring the journey from the ground to the canopy of a tree.

“Over the eight floors, the designers have taken inspiration from the nearby river and Eucalypts, with rich earthy tones ombre into the lush green tones of the upper levels,” says Timms.

For Workspace Commercial Furniture, Australia's largest diversified commercial furniture manufacturer, this meant sourcing materials and colours harmonising with Adelaide's natural landscape, reflecting its rich earthy hues and vibrant greens.

Every piece of furniture was meticulously designed to enhance the visual appeal of the space and promote collaboration and engagement among students. 

“We are proud of our Australian heritage. We are keeping the manufacturing here in South Australia, manufacturing our products and bespoke pieces right here,” says Timms.

Timms recalls the meticulous process of creating furniture tailored to the designers' specifications. From ergonomic seating to interactive tables designed to accommodate students with disabilities and connect them for seamless engagement, each piece confirmed the University’s commitment to inclusivity and functionality.

“The bespoke furniture was made to specification by the designer’s vision, such as the diamond-shaped tables that can connect to create communal learning and collaboration. These are interactive spaces for people to learn, engage and socialise,” says Timms.

“The other aspect that makes this project stand out is the consideration of disabilities in every section on every level of the building, such as having slightly higher tables to accommodate a wheelchair.”

Timms continues, “In every section with tables, a certain number of slightly higher tables will accommodate a wheelchair. So, every piece is bespoke, whether it's due to height, shape, colour or additional functionality.”

Flinders University’s main campus, located approximately 12kms south of Adelaide’s CBD has been operating since 1966.

“The establishment of this city campus was designed to bring Flinders University closer to the city centre, enhancing its accessibility," says Timms.

"Situated near Adelaide’s Railway Station, the Festival Tower serves as the centrepiece of this new campus. This location also offers a seamless public transport link, connecting the CBD site directly to Flinders University’s Tonsley, Flinders Village, and Bedford Park campuses through a single train line.”

The primary objective of this campus was to reach out to a broader audience of students who may find it more convenient to study in the city.

Additionally, the campus was designed to offer state-of-the-art learning areas and collaborative spaces to deliver the optimal learning experience, far beyond the traditional university experience. The focus is on transforming how education is perceived and delivered.

“The campus has been a tremendous success in achieving its goals,” Timms remarks.

The fit-out project took 12 months to complete with its success measured in its aesthetics and the enhanced educational experiences it fosters. The campus’s inventive design encourages students to engage, innovate and explore new ways of learning.

Completing the Flinders University City Campus marks a significant milestone not only for Flinders University but also for Workspace Commercial Furniture. As Australia's largest diversified commercial furniture manufacturer, Workspace Commercial Furniture takes pride in its support of local Australian manufacturing. The project exemplifies their dedication to pushing the boundaries of design, innovation and sustainability.

From the initial concept to the final installation, the Flinders University City Campus project shows the power of collaboration and modernism in shaping the future of education.

As students step into this extraordinary space, they are greeted not only by the promise of knowledge but also by an environment designed to inspire, empower, and transform––one that is inclusive for all who seek higher learning.

For bespoke furniture for your next project, reach out to Workspace Commercial Furniture on ArchiPro.