On the serene outskirts of Glasgow city, Daldowie Crematorium stands as a testament to history, beauty, and the enduring allure of exquisite lighting. For over seven decades, this B-listed gem has been bathed in the warm, comforting glow of bespoke Coughtrie copper light fittings, each with a story to tell.
The journey begins with a visionary architect, William Watt, whose symmetrical ashlar-built design of the crematorium has graced the Daldowie, since 1955. The wide domed centre, the flue, and the pair of piended chapels create a butterfly-plan layout that speaks to the very essence of architectural harmony. Round-arched windows and porches on each outer end wall add to the exquisite details that make Daldowie Crematorium a sight to behold.
But, like any historic treasure, the passage of time took its toll. Energy costs mounted, and the world's focus shifted to sustainability. Daldowie Crematorium’s custodians were faced with a challenge: how to restore this luminous masterpiece to its former glory while embracing the modern era of energy efficiency.
J&G Coughtrie received an inquiry from Daldowie Crematorium regarding the possibility of refurbishing their lighting fixtures. This prompted a significant focus on renovation and restoration. In a short span of weeks, a committed team from Coughtrie set out on a mission to meticulously disassemble, enhance, and repaint each of the 30 distinctive Coughtrie light fixtures that have been a cherished part of Daldowie Crematorium's heritage for generations. These Coughtrie light fixtures, distinguished by their unique design, were the heart and soul of the crematorium, and their rejuvenation was of utmost importance.
But this was not a mere cosmetic facelift of the Coughtrie lights; it was a transformation that brought Daldowie Crematorium into the 21st century without compromising its timeless beauty. The Coughtrie team replaced traditional bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs, ensuring that the luminance of Daldowie Crematorium remained undiminished.
However, the process involved more than just swapping out bulbs. A computer-calculated lighting scheme was meticulously crafted to ensure that the new fixtures collectively produced the same quality and intensity of light as before. This was an intricate dance between heritage preservation and modern innovation, and the results speak for themselves.
Today, as you step into each chapel wing of the Crematorium, you are greeted by the warm, familiar embrace of bespoke luminaries. These fixtures not only shine with their former glory but also contribute to the broader effort to protect our planet. They are a symbol of how tradition and innovation can coexist, enriching our lives in more ways than one.
Daldowie Crematorium, built on the site of the Daldowie mansion, is more than just a place; it's a piece of Glasgow's history. With its newly restored luminaries, it continues to be a beacon of hope and solace for those who pass through its doors.
The restoration of Daldowie Crematorium's luminaries is a testament to the enduring beauty of Coughtrie’s lighting and the power of innovation to enhance it. This project not only preserves the past but also paves the way for a more sustainable future. As the warm glow of these Coughtrie bespoke fixtures illuminates the hearts of those who visit, they stand as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of old-world charm and modern efficiency.
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Member-created content 1 year ago | From members