Bidding a loved one farewell is a very personal moment, and Cemetery Design needs to reflect this. Developing a well-rounded master plan can help optimize land utilization and increase revenue.
Effective landscape designs and architecture add value to cemetery lots, and create attractive focal points within the park. These designs can help attract visitors and increase revenue.
Master Plan
The cemetery master plan begins with an analysis and programing process that includes sales trends, zoning, maintenance needs, burial types and quantities, crematorium and mausoleum requirements, funeral homes, pavilions, administrative offices, entrances, parking areas and vehicular and pedestrian circulation. These are mapped out on the site map and then the design starts to take form.
A cemetery has many different functions and it is important that each function be designed in a way that meets the specific needs of the people visiting the site. The layout of the property should be well thought out and the architecture and landscape designs should reflect that. Also, signage must be clearly marked and placed throughout the property in a way that is easy to read for all visitors. This is especially true if the cemetery caters to an older demographic. Lastly, incorporating a water feature can help create a sense of tranquility on the grounds and add a unique design element.
Landscape and Architecture
A cemetery should be a beautiful place where people can walk, paint or visit and feel at peace. Landscape designs should reflect the culture of the community and be responsive to unique areas.
Changing cultural attitudes have influenced new trends in cemetery architecture. For example, a move towards minimalism and environmental sustainability has resulted in simple headstone designs and the introduction of green burials that minimize impact on the environment.
Water features such as ponds can provide opportunities for wildlife to inhabit and also serve as a focal point for the cemetery landscape. They can also be used as a gathering space for memorial services or simply be a peaceful place to sit and reflect.
Cemeteries often have limited budgets so good design is essential to maximize revenue potential. Well designed burial plots with scenic or natural features attract premiums. Also, the addition of accessible pathways and entrances adds value to a cemetery. A strategic plan and thoughtful design can help a cemetery become financially sustainable and remain in operation for years to come.
Accessibility
Modern cemeteries are embracing a shift towards inclusivity and providing accessible spaces for everyone. This ensures that all individuals can visit their loved ones gravesites and memorialize them in a way that is meaningful to them.
A cemetery is not just a place to lay a grave; it must be a vibrant celebration of life, family, history and individuality. This requires a great deal of thought that goes into the planning process.
The entrance “boulevard” should be a two-lane road, at least where it intersects with the approach road (public road). Cemetery roads must be simple to allow funeral corteges to travel forward from entry to departure and to provide easy access to all burial sections. Asphalt is preferred.
Headstone designs are varied and often incorporate religious symbols to denote faith or spiritual beliefs, as well as floral motifs to evoke themes of beauty, love and remembrance. Additionally, environmentally conscious headstones have become more popular with options such as biodegradable markers or plant-based resins that decompose naturally over time.
Signage
Cemeteries rely on signage to communicate important information to visitors. Whether it’s an entrance sign, directional signs, cemetery rules sign or memorial plaques and maps, each piece of cemetery signage must serve its purpose in order to be effective.
Traditional gravestones often feature inscriptions and epitaphs that reflect the beliefs and heritage of the deceased. They also incorporate floral motifs and other religious symbols, such as crosses, stars of David or crescent moons, to convey themes like remembrance and hope.
More recently, families have had the opportunity to customize their loved ones’ headstones. They can include custom engravings, photographs or even QR codes that link to digital memorials. Measuring at a respectable size, this Ottenheimer metal cemetery sign is an elegant and dignified tribute to your loved one. The durable finish withstands the elements, keeping it looking beautiful and standing steadfast for years to come.