Proposed crematorium

MFA was commissioned by BLF Properties Ltd to design a new crematorium building with ancillary structures on a 2 hectare site to serve the settlements of North East Fife.  Our client had identified a need for a crematorium facility in this part of Fife as the nearest crematoria were located at Dundee, Kirkcaldy and Perth.  The site, at 100 Acre Wood, was specifically chosen as it was approximately equidistant from Cupar, St Andrews, the East Neuk settlements and Leven.

The main design concept was to reflect the traditional simple agricultural forms that are typical of this part of rural Fife.  The crematorium building was designed with a natural slate roof with large overhangs, natural stone front elevation and rendered side and rear elevations.  The size, shape and layout of the crematorium building was largely dictated by its function with the reception area to the front of the building, the main hall within the middle part of the building and administrative and cremator area to the rear of the building which are naturally screened by the building’s orientation.  To make best use of near and distant views, substantial full height glazing was incorporated on the east elevation of the building.

The formal landscaped garden areas with a network of footpaths present the importance of the building and enabled separation of the parking area from the front of the building.  An external shelter and reflection pool to the east of the crematorium building provided a direct route to the memorial garden.