Richard Rose Morton Academy
- Location
- Cumbria, UK
- Client
- Kier for Cumbria County Council
- Expertise
- Architecture
- Acoustics
- Building Services Engineering
- Civil & Structural Engineering
- Interior Design
- Lighting
- Completion
- 2011
- Cost
- £25m
The building is centred around a three-storey glass atrium and features a flexible 400-seat lecture theatre that also serves as a civic space for Carlisle.
Its open design welcomes pupils from both the north and south, with the southern approach featuring an open plaza and urban orchard that acts as a buffer between the academy and the adjacent road. The two wings of the building are connected by a ‘mega bridge’ at the atrium’s narrowest point, visually dividing the space into two distinct areas. The northern half is dedicated to dining, while the southern half serves as a multi-functional showpiece space.
Designed to accommodate 1,150 pupils and a 250-place sixth form, the academy creates an inclusive and sustainable learning environment that is modern and responsive to its suburban setting. Open to the community as an extended learning space throughout the year, the project was recognised with a RIBA Regional Award in 2012.