Cemetery design is an important consideration for any cemetery. It is an art that transcends the physical state of the grave, creating a place that is welcoming and inviting to the public. The complexities of cemetery design include the construction of buildings and niches, the inclusion of public spaces, and the aesthetics of the landscape. Cemetery designers balance the needs of people with technical considerations to create a plan that best accommodates the site. Cemetery design takes advantage of existing geographic assets, such as natural areas and open spaces, and incorporate site-specific art.
Cemetery design begins with a site analysis and programming phase. The planning process will identify key program elements, location of existing facilities, and analyze the potential for return on investment. Once these pre-design steps are completed, alternative concepts will be created and the cemetery owner will be able to select a final design. This step is essential for cemetery design, since it plays a major role in the success of a cemetery.
The layout of a cemetery is important, and should include a pedestrian path that will allow access to maintenance equipment. Ideally, the path will be aligned north to south to parallel a vehicle road, and two additional pathways will be built on the opposite ends of the property. A cemetery design that incorporates a pedestrian path can create a more inviting environment for visitors and residents alike. A good cemetery design will have ample space for these essential structures and will also serve as a place to share memories with loved ones.
When putting together a cemetery design, it’s crucial to have a master plan for the entire property. This plan will provide a roadmap for future changes and ensure the cemetery is aesthetically pleasing. Furthermore, a cemetery design should be flexible enough to accommodate future changes if needed. A cemetery design plan also serves as an important marketing tool to potential buyers of the cemetery.
Green elements are also an important consideration for cemetery design. Many participants agreed that incorporating green features can create a calming atmosphere and help with the grieving process. In addition to these advantages, green elements are ecologically beneficial. Furthermore, they help preserve the health of the surrounding area and attract local wildlife. A cemetery design that incorporates green features will improve the environment and promote good health.
Cemeteries are important community spaces, and are often seen as part of a city’s green infrastructure. Incorporating green elements into cemetery design will provide benefits to both the living and the dead, including regulating temperatures, preventing flooding, and providing habitat for insects and small animals. The final goal is to create a place that is welcoming to the public, regardless of the size of the community.
There are many types of cemetery design. Some are more ecologically friendly than others, and you should consider all the options available to you before you make a final decision. Consider monuments and plaques, as well as the layout and size of the graves. You should also consider the future expansion of the space in your cemetery. For instance, planting trees in place of redundant stone graves can reduce waste. And biodegradable caskets and urns are also an eco-friendly option.
Another feature that distinguishes some cemeteries from others is the presence of columbarium walls. These are often a reflection of the growing popularity of cremation, where a family can scatter a loved one’s remains in a beautiful place. Unfortunately, this doesn’t offer the family the opportunity to create a permanent memorial plaque, and also doesn’t allow a wider circle of family and friends to visit the grave. Because of this, many cemeteries have chosen to install brick walls that contain a rectangular array of niches, each of which is large enough to house a cremation urn.