Hemel Hempstead Crematorium
Dacorum, Eastern
Civic Trust Awards Citation
Hemel Hempstead Crematorium successfully provides a serene and contemplative space for individuals bidding farewell to their loved ones.
The structure is characterised by a thoughtful blend of simplicity, functionality, and a profound sense of place. The architectural design revolves around a unifying pitched roof structure, minimising the building's visual impact on the landscape. The subdued and muted aesthetic reflects the sombre purpose of the crematorium, creating an atmosphere of calm and quiet reflection. The strategic placement of the building within the landscape, adhering to crematorium siting rules, ensures both privacy for grieving families and an undisturbed, curated setting.
The chapel space, benefits from views of the surrounding landscape and a water pool, and the use of a consistent palette of colours and materials, particularly the continuous use of timber, contributes to the creation of a peaceful ambiance. The construction quality and detailing of the crematorium is of a high standard, evident in the beautifully executed roof structure and the integration of materials, such as timber and bricks, both inside and outside. The clean and coordinated palette extends to details like signage, forming a holistic composition. Landscape around the crematorium, although still maturing, responds to the internal layout and views out, further enhancing the overall experience for visitors. Accessibility is a key consideration in the design, with a well-thought-out internal layout that aligns seamlessly with the sequence of a funeral service.
The client's involvement in decision-making, coupled with the architect's expertise, has resulted in a facility that prioritises privacy, dignity, care, and consideration throughout. As a civic building serving a critical community function, Hemel Hempstead Crematorium is a dignified space where design, functionality, and empathy come together to provide solace to those in mourning.
Judges’ Comments: “This is a high quality and well-crafted building, and it was obvious from our visit that there had been a strong working relationship between architect and client.”
Photography Credits & Captions
Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-01.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Great care has been taken to ensure the new build Crematorium sits within and becomes part of the beautiful surroundings. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-02.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Pedestrian approach route focuses on the Porte-Cochère gathering space. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-03.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Pedestrian approach route cuts through the bunds to form protected pockets of space on the mourners route through the landscape and building. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-04.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: The timber superstructure reveals itself as visitors approach the Porte-Cochère gathering space. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-05.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Detail of the exposed timber soffit above the Porte-Cochère gathering space as it rises up and over the Chapel. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-06.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Waiting room to the side of the Porte-Chochere with a clear view of visitors arriving for a service. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-07.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: View of the Chapel from the lobby entrance with the Catafalque asymmetrically positioned along the masonry wall. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-08.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Looking back towards the chapel lobby with Porte-Cochère beyond. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-09.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Chapel looking out across the Chapel view garden - Note the adjustable lectern. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-10.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Detail of the timber structure with acoustic absorber soffit between the rafters. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-11.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Detail of the timber soffit above the Chapel with sunlight reflecting of the external pond. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-12.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Several devices, such as overhanging eaves, brise soleil and reflective pond, control and adjust the quality of light entering the Chapel along the south elevation. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-13.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Looking back along the chapel exit route which funnels visitors towards the Floral Tribute. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-14.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: The Floral Tribute gathering space provides shelter to visitors existing the Chapel Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-15.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Framed views from the Floral Tribute space overlooking the chapel view and landscape layers beyond Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-16.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Roof openings along the edge of the Floral Tribute allow light and shadows to dance along the timber cladding. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-17.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Low eves on the exit of the floral tribute emphasise the horizon line and the datums set by the landforms and Remembrance Chapel. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-18.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Detail of the south elevation of the Chapel view Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-19.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Detail of the timber superstructure, brise soleil, gabions and brick walls coming together. Hemel Hempstead Crematorium-20.jpg, Credit: Photography by Simon Kennedy, Caption: Reception with office beyond. The meeting room and family to the left and right provide private space for the arrangement of ceremonies and collection of ashes.
Overall Result
Highly Commended
Application Type
CTA
Primary Use Class
F1(f) Public worship or religious instruction (or in connection with such use)
Credits
Architect
Haverstock
Client
Watford Borough Council on behalf of the West Herts Crematorium Joint Committee (Watford Borough Council, Dacorum Borough Council, Hertsmere Borough Council, St Albans City & District Council, Three Rivers District Council)
Main Contractor
Buxton Building Contractors
Quantity Surveyor
MacConvilles Surveying
Structural Engineer
Webb Yates Engineers
Services Engineer
RHB Partnership
Landscape Architect
Plincke
CDMC
Goddard Consulting
BIM Consultants
Deploi BIM Strategies
Planning Consultant
Define Planning and Design
Transport Consultant
Mode Transport Planning
Acoustic Consultant
RSK Acoustics (Cole Jarman)
Approved Building Inspector
Sweco
Timber Structure Manufacturer
Constructional Timber (Manufacturers)
Other
Engenuiti (Construction Timber Specialist Engineer)
Other
Traditional Brick & Stone (Brick)
Project Manager
MacConvilles Surveying
Other
Treske (Furniture)
Other
Tills Water Features (Refection Pond)