Architect reveals key role in city’s new Register Office project

Morrison Design has revealed its role in creating the new location for Derby City Council’s Register Office.

Working with a team that included the city council and Planning Design Practice, the firm transformed part of Connect Derby’s Riverside Chambers into the new venue.

Providing both architectural and principal designer services, Morrison led the refurbishment of the Grade II-listed building’s ground floor offices to create a modern registry facility.

The project has delivered a range of new spaces, including large and small ceremony rooms, improved public facilities and enhanced accessibility for visitors.

Riverside Chambers building holds significant historic value, having previously served as a magistrates’ court, police station and administrative offices.

Morrison Design approached the refurbishment with a strong focus on conservation, carefully modernising the building to meet current regulations while retaining and celebrating its original historic features.

The project also holds a special significance for Morrison Design.

The practice’s founder, Sam Morrison, was involved in work on the original Riverside Chambers building, which opened in 1934, during his time working alongside architect Charles Herbert Aslin, who later became president of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in 1954.

Michael Clarke, senior architect at Morrison Design, said: “We are extremely proud to have contributed to revitalising Riverside Chambers, a well-known public building at the heart of the city.

“It was important for us to respect the building’s heritage while creating a welcoming and accessible space for the community to celebrate some of life’s most important moments.”