Hemel Hempstead Crematorium
LOCATION
Hemel Hempstead
SECTOR
Local Authority
CLIENT
Plincke Landscape Architects
for West Herts Crematorium
Joint Committee
PRODUCTS USED
THE BRIEF
This new build crematorium was developed by West Herts Crematorium Joint Committee, and lies adjacent to the existing Bunkers Park green space and the Poppy Fields Cemetery on the southern perimeter of Hemel Hempstead. It required extensive external spaces to be created that were calm and tranquil, yet durable to facilitate significant levels of footfall for the chapel, pavilion and remembrance garden. They needed to integrate with the surrounding Green Belt landscape, and contribute to the overall strong sense of place that was being created. Therefore, a robust, hard wearing and environmentally appropriate surface material was needed.
What we achieved in numbers
383
Tonnes of material used
1,770 m2
Square metres Paved
65%
recycled or reclaimed material
used in our CSK Kerb
Solution
To fulfil the brief, the surfaces had to be both aesthetically refined and robust enough to withstand time and the elements while maintaining their elegance.
Plincke Landscape took great care in selecting the perfect paving solution for this deeply meaningful setting. Stonefleck block paving in a silver fleck finish was chosen to evoke a sense of quiet dignity, offering a subtle yet striking foundation for the space. This finish, with its delicate interplay of light and texture, enhances the surrounding landscape, creating an environment that invites contemplation and remembrance.
The intelligent design of using Infilta moulds ensures proper drainage while maintaining a visually appealing and structurally sound surface. The silver fleck finish was further complemented by the use of CSK kerbs – an eco-friendly granite-alternative kerb that elevates the refinement of the space and seamlessly frames the pathways and gathering areas.
Beyond its functional benefits, the paving was selected for its timeless quality, reinforcing the crematorium’s role as a place of lasting remembrance. The Infilta paving’s dropped nib design ensures a uniform joint width, creating a smooth, uninterrupted appearance that mirrors the understated grace of the surroundings. Every detail – including every joint and stone - was considered to foster an atmosphere of serenity and respect.
“Charcon’s Stonefleck paving, with CSK kerbs, was selected for its use of light granite aggregate, combining that heritage material with clean lines uncluttered by the visible nibs that can undermine the aesthetic of alternative permeable paving products. The overall effect provides an appropriately elevated and uplifting appearance to the congregant arrival and departure spaces. We very much appreciated the commitment from the team to supporting a high quality finish in a timely manner and within budget”
Gavin Woolston
Associate Landscape Artist from Plincke Landscape Artist
Understanding the profound significance of this project, all teams involved dedicated themselves to meticulous execution, ensuring that every element was in place to meet the project’s timeline and uphold the vision for this sacred space. Their commitment to quality and care was unwavering, recognising that their work would serve generations of visitors coming to remember, reflect, and find peace.
Reflecting on the project, Gavin Fancote, Charcon Specification Manager (South East), expressed the honour of being part of such an important endeavour: “We are privileged to have contributed to this place of remembrance. Not only does the paving provide a high-quality finish, but it also helps to create an environment of comfort and tranquillity, a setting that we hope will offer solace to those who come here to pay tribute to their loved ones.”
Relevant Products
Gavin Woolston, Associate Landscape Artist from Plincke Landscape Artist, “Charcon’s Stonefleck paving, with CSK kerbs, was selected for its use of light granite aggregate, combining that heritage material with clean lines uncluttered by the visible nibs that can undermine the aesthetic of alternative permeable paving products. The overall effect provides an appropriately elevated and uplifting appearance to the congregant arrival and departure spaces. We very much appreciated the commitment from the team to supporting a high quality finish in a timely manner and within budget”
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