Creating a space of dignity and comfort

The project was driven by North East Lincolnshire Council's commitment to improving bereavement facilities. With more than 200,000 people visiting the crematorium each year, the quality of the environment plays a vital role in supporting families at one of the most emotional times of their lives.

The refurbishment included new seating, flooring, ceiling finishes and a complete redecoration of the chapel. As Phil Hewitt, Bereavement Services Manager, explained, the new windows have been particularly transformative:

“Our old windows were single-glazed with worn winding mechanisms. You couldn’t close them fully, and they weren’t thermally efficient,” he explained. “Now with the new double-glazed units, we’re already noticing improvements, and we expect them to really show their value come winter”.

Heritage appearance, modern benefits

To retain the building’s original appearance while improving thermal and acoustic efficiency, Fabrique installed custom-designed Kestrel 75mm aluminium window systems. These replicated the sightlines of the original windows but offered a significant upgrade in performance.

In the chapel the multi-panel window design combines fixed panes with openable sections to provide ventilation flexibility. Because the chapel is double height and the upper windows are out of reach, they were fitted with stay-clean glass and mechanically controlled openers to help regulate the room temperature.

The feature window above the main entrance was also carefully replicated and enhanced with high-quality coloured film, preserving the stained-glass effect within budget.

Meeting the challenge of a tight timeframe

With the chapel closed for just one week to accommodate painting, carpet fitting and other interior works, Fabrique had only nine days to complete the full installation. A reliable supplier was critical.

Steve Hilldrith, Managing Director of Fabrique Glazing Systems, credits Kestrel’s responsiveness with keeping the project on track: “It was a challenging time frame, but we managed to turn the project around in just nine days. We couldn’t have done that without Kestrel’s quick delivery. We know we can rely on them - when they say a delivery is coming, it comes,” he said.

Accessibility and long-term value

Alongside the new chapel glazing, Fabrique fitted aluminium thermal commercial doors from Kestrel, complementing an earlier upgrade that introduced an automated Kestrel entrance door to improve accessibility for elderly visitors and those with limited mobility.

As Steve Hilldrith noted, the ongoing relationship with Kestrel has been key: “I don’t use anything else but Kestrel. And with their powder coating service, we can use Kestrel from start to finish. They’re a good company to work with and have helped us no end over the years. Quality products and great service - it’s why we stick with them”.

A lasting result

The finished installation blends seamlessly into its surroundings, staying true to the building’s heritage while bringing the comfort and efficiency expected today. For families visiting at a difficult time, the refurbished chapel now feels brighter, more comfortable, and more modern.

Phil Hewitt summed up: “We’re delighted with the windows since they’ve gone in. They look so much better than the originals and fit perfectly into the refurbished space.”

The Grimsby Crematorium project demonstrates how thoughtful design, skilled fabrication, and high-performance aluminium systems from Kestrel can transform public buildings into places of dignity and comfort.