West Lindsey District Council had become aware that they could not provide adequate crematorium provision, within the area for their local residents. Mourners were forced to travel long distances to other provisions at what is a very difficult and traumatic time. Additionally, there were often long waiting times for services at neighbouring crematoria given their service covering a large area.
Public & Community
West Lindsey District Council
Gainsborough, UK
£6m
2018
We began initial feasibility work by carrying an extensive analysis of the site, addressing the client’s initial aspiration for two chapels, we concluded that we could innovatively design an innovative chapel, offering flexibility for large services and those that require greater intimacy, reducing the programme cost and length.
The design respects the programmatic functions of the plan; the chapel and ancillary spaces, the crematory itself and the staff areas and front office. Externally, the serene and peaceful elevations reflect a simple architectural concept which focuses on the importance of the chapel space by use of a higher volume which is butterfly shaped to innovatively conceal the chimney.
To support the flow of mourners though the site, the Porte-Cochere dominates arrivals to the crematorium, providing strong visual orientation as well as shelter for the cortege and congregation.
RIBA East Midlands Regional Awards, Finalist, 2022
Civic Trust Award Winner, 2021
Brick Award, Architects Choice Award Winner, 2021
Brick Award, Public Building Category, Finalist, 2021
AJ Architecture Awards, Public Building Category, Finalist, 2021
SPACES Yearbook, SPACES Awards and Civic Building of the Year, Finalist, 2021
Best Small Commercial Project Highly Commended, East Midlands LABC Building Excellence Award, 2020
Best Public Service Building Finalist, East Midlands LABC Building Excellence Award, 2020
The site is organised around an axis that runs across the front of the crematorium, connecting the various features including the memorial gardens, access points and views, enhancing the feeling of tranquillity and peace.
The use of natural materials throughout nestles the building withing the landscape, with bronze-framed window panels articulating the brickwork and providing views across the site.
Lea Fields Crematorium delivers a much needed facility for the surrounding communities, offering opportunities to reflect and celebrate the lives of their loved ones.
