Riverside Chambers

Large ceremony room with circular feature light at the front, over a table with a floral display. Chairs are set out ready for guests.

Morrison Design transformed part of the historic Riverside Chambers building into Derby’s Registry Office, providing architectural and Building Regulations Principal Designer (BRPD) services throughout the project.

External photo of Riverside Chambers with stone paving, black and brass handrails and the red brick building with large windows behind

The refurbishment converted former ground-floor office accommodation into ceremony rooms and supporting public facilities, creating an accessible and welcoming environment while meeting modern regulatory requirements.

As a Grade II listed building with a long civic history, Riverside Chambers required a sensitive approach. The design carefully balanced the preservation of original architectural features with contemporary interventions, ensuring the building could continue to serve the city in a new capacity.

Photo of the ceremony room with wooden floor, looking to the front at the room which has feature circular lighting and floral displays

The project held particular significance for Morrison Design, as our founder, Sam Morrison, worked on the original Riverside Chambers building when it was completed in 1934, alongside architect Charles Herbert Aslin.

Nik Clarke, Director, said: “Riverside Chambers presented a unique opportunity to adapt an important civic building for a new generation. Our approach focused on respecting its historic character while creating accessible, functional spaces that support its continued role at the heart of the community.”