Last year, the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia announced their plans to merge into a single institution. While the merger is expected to be completed in 2026, the new university will be the first in South Australia to be established in the 21st century. As part of the preparatory work, the University of Adelaide and UniSA unveiled the logo of the future university.
According to the universities’ strategic document, South Australia and its people are currently facing some issues in the field of education. To overcome these challenges, the state needs increased ambition as well as new approaches to higher education that will accelerate improvements. According to the plans, the new Adelaide University will accommodate almost 70,000 students and nearly 6,000 staff members. The unveiling of the university’s visual identity signals a successful unification process.
Presenting the AU logo, both universities state that it celebrates their legacies, “proudly carrying forward a storied history of firsts into a bright future.” By elevating educational standards, the new university is positioned as a catalyst for change and an equalizer of opportunities, while preserving the heritage of the founding institutions.
Designed by the prominent studio Lippincott, the visual identity of Adelaide University draws on the traditions of both universities, combining elements from their graphic assets and showcasing new features. The logo represents a rather abstract icon resembling the AU initials, also referencing the code of Australia. This design is intended to convey the orientation and openness of the future organization.
With its serif-like detail and straight lines in the “A,” and the sleek curve in the “U,” the logo demonstrates both stability and dynamism. A particularly interesting feature is the separate element on the top right. According to the studio, this “corner” is a nod to the Adelaide Festival Centre, which is also nicknamed “Corner” and located next to the University of Adelaide in the Adelaide City Centre. Therefore, it’s a visible and symbolic touch referring to something refined and artistic.
The AU icon is accompanied by a two-line wordmark executed in the National 2 Condensed serif font from the New Zealand Klim Type foundry. While the two-line structure continues the aesthetics of the University of Adelaide and UniSA, the choice of a serif typeface adds a sense of seriousness and solidity to the brand.Another important aspect is the choice of dark blue as the main brand color. Often found in educational contexts, this hue in AU visuals is complemented by accent shades such as ivory, bright blue, and purple. Utilized in the design of the university’s website, this color scheme feels fresh and inspiring.
Judging by its visual identity, Adelaide University is off to a strong start. The branding can be considered successful due to its laconic and refined forms, the retention of the DNA of both parent institutions, and a well-chosen color palette. Additionally, the AU icon, designed in an abstract yet expressive manner, has the potential to become a recognizable and iconic symbol for students and South Australia in general.
