Kaurna
South Australia
Tonsley Technical College and Flinders University’s Factory of the Future is a $55 million joint venture that brings vocational education, research and industry collaboration together within a single learning village. Designed to support a technology-led future, the project prioritises student agency, industry innovation and responsibility to Country and climate through considered material and systems choices.
At the heart of the project is a deliberate focus on cross-pollination across education, research and industry. Shared spaces and clear visual connections encourage interaction, knowledge exchange and informal learning, while co-location supports real pathways between study and work. The interface between the Technical College, University and industry partners allows learners to engage directly with contemporary practice in a professional setting.
Led by Das Studio, the project integrates mass timber construction, all-electric operation and WELL + GreenStar principles, demonstrating how education infrastructure can deliver long-term value, sustainability and meaningful industry connection.
Das Studio designed the Factory of the Future to feel distinctly different from a typical research or university building – in the best possible way.Â
The extensive use of timber creates warmth and calm, while glazing enhances transparency, connection and collaboration across the building. A strong physical and visual interface with the Technical College supports the University’s broader pathway agenda, strengthening links between education, industry and future skills.Â
As the project evolved, Das Studio were instrumental in aligning stakeholders around shared fundamentals and stretch objectives. The building demonstrates what a sustainable, collaborative and future-focused approach to education infrastructure can achieve.
Dino Vrynios, Project Director
Sam Green, Project Lead
Rachel Pargeter, Interior Design Lead
Ben de Bricassart, Project Architect
Lyndal Graetz, Interior Designer
Ricky-Lee Barrios, Interior Designer
Edward Ramsey, Design Architect
Shannon Wark, Design Architect
Allan Yeo, Documentation Lead
Sara Horstmann, Design Review
Innovis, Structural Engineer
Innovis, Civil Consultant
WSP, Acoustic Consultant
Landskap, Landscape Consultant
dsquared, ESD Consultant
JBS&G, Environmental Consultant
RLB, Cost Consultant
Turner Townsend, Project Manager
Future Urban, Town Planner
TF Certifiers + Consultants, NCC & DDA Advisory
Buildsurv, Building Surveyor
Studio Band, Brand, Signage and Wayfinding