Central Bedfordshire Crematorium, Oakfield Gardens, Steppingley

Architect: DT Architects Ltd

Woodtype: FSC-certified European oak (Linear and Grill system) and Accoya (facades)
Dimensions: Linear ProLine 15 x 94 mm with a 20 mm joint, Grill ProLine 5 - 75 - 20 - 90, Facade 18 x 94 mm with a 20 mm joint
Finish: Transparent

Hunter Douglas made a significant contribution to the sustainable design of Oakfield Gardens, the first crematorium in Central Bedfordshire. Located in a serene setting near Steppingley, this crematorium opened in May 2024 and was designed with sustainability and biodiversity as core values. To realize this vision, Hunter Douglas was involved in the supply of high-quality solid wood ceilings and cladding for both the interior and exterior of the building.

The building was designed by DT Architects Ltd and constructed by SMD Ltd on behalf of Central Bedfordshire Council. With a capacity of 120 people, the crematorium is surrounded by peaceful wildflower gardens, giving the entire structure a natural and serene appearance. The design remained true to its ambition of enhancing biodiversity and ensuring sustainability.

Hunter Douglas supplied 246 m² of solid European oak in a linear system for the exterior soffits and walls. For the main entrance and tower facades, Accoya solid wood was used, known for its durability and weather resistance. The panels, which are 94 mm wide and 15 mm high, are FSC-certified and fire-treated to meet B-s1-d0 and B-s2-d0 standards. They were installed on an SLR carrier system with a 20 mm gap, with a black ultra-fiber tissue layer used to subtly conceal the joints.

Inside the spacious chapel, 143 m² of solid wood grill ceiling was installed, made from FSC-certified European oak. The panels, measuring 90 mm high and 20 mm thick, were fire-treated to B-s2-d0 standards and installed with random gaps, creating an elegant and refined finish that perfectly complements the serene atmosphere of the space.

A key advantage of using Hunter Douglas solid wood wall and ceiling systems is that they are custom-made, meaning no on-site adjustments are needed. This significantly reduces installation time and costs, while ensuring that the final result perfectly meets the design specifications. Additionally, the wood systems offer a wide range of finishes and natural tones, making them a visual highlight in any project.

Using solid wood as a building material is not only an aesthetic choice but also an environmentally conscious one. Wood is the only building material that is 100% CO2-neutral and fully recyclable, contributing to the sustainable character of Oakfield Gardens. Thanks to the high-quality products and the focus on sustainability and quality throughout the entire production process, Hunter Douglas provides not only a visually attractive solution but also a long-lasting and environmentally friendly value for this project.