Modern cemeteries are embracing a wide variety of cultures, beliefs and lifestyles. Various inurnment and interment options are available, as well as sustainable design and signage.
Modern cemeteries embrace a wide variety of cultures, beliefs and lifestyles
The funeral industry in the United States has undergone a seismic shift. With the increasing number of deaths in the country, Americans have started to look at funeral practices in a new light. They’ve adopted green burial practices and other innovative approaches as a way to regain some of the lost luster of their funeral traditions.
One of the most obvious changes has been the growth of cemeteries. Today, there are a variety of types of cemeteries, including family, religious and public. These different types of cemeteries provide different services, levels of services and types of memorialization. Choosing the right cemetery can be a difficult task, depending on your individual needs. However, there are a few key things to keep in mind when looking for a suitable place to inter your loved one.
While some people might argue that the modern cemetery has replaced the traditional graveyard, that’s not necessarily the case. In fact, many of the older, urban cemeteries have found themselves struggling for space.
Inurnment and interment options
There are several inurnment and interment options in cemetery design, depending on your wishes and the decedent’s preferences. These options may include in-ground burial, above ground burial, cremation, and scattering. While not all of them are available to every family, deciding on a specific type of interment is a profoundly personal decision. The right option for your family will help keep the memory of your loved one alive and well.
Inurnment is the process of placing the ashes of your loved one in an urn. Typically, the urn is buried in a cemetery, but some families prefer to bury the urn on their own property.
If you choose to bury your ashes on your own property, it is important to obtain written permission before burying them. You should also consider how the ashes will be exhibited. It is best to place them away from moisture and direct sunlight, as these can cause discoloration and fading.
Some cemeteries have special rules regarding inscriptions and grave markers. Others have landscaped urn gardens for urns.
Signage
Signage in cemetery design is a crucial part of the entire design process. A well-designed sign can set the tone for the cemetery and guide visitors to the right place. The right signs can also be a reminder to be sensitive to the surroundings.
Cemetery identification signs are often installed at key road junctions or at the entrance to the cemetery. They feature a similar symbol and a color scheme.
These signs are designed to help visitors locate the exact location of a gravesite or memorial. Typically, they are placed at the entrance to the site and are double-sided.
Another type of cemetery sign is a commemorative plaque. These can be framed or in-house designed. This is a great way to honor a loved one.
Other types of cemetery signage are directional, information, and even monument. These can range from simple maps of the park to a personalized memorial bench.
Typical features of the cemetery signs you might see include custom cast aluminum signs, textured backgrounds, and a raised typeface. Most signs have integral borders, though some are hung from brackets.
Sustainable design
Sustainable cemetery design is important for the overall layout and development of a cemetery. Cemeteries are multi-functional spaces, and their planning should be sensitive to their location. The right cemetery layout can help curb land contamination and preserve the character of the area.
A proper layout for a cemetery includes a variety of landscape features. It should include different shades of green, decorative elements, and plant species that bloom in the season. In addition, there should be a range of lighting options, including outdoor lighting and special water features.
The design of a cemetery should involve both landscape architects and gardeners. It should also consider the local socio-cultural context. This will ensure that the layout is suitable for a diverse group of users.
Cemetery design should also consider the terrain, transportation systems, and environmental impact of the site. The cemetery should be well-lit and accessible to people of all ages. There should be adequate parking and handicapped pathways.
Research into cemeteries helps policy makers and regulators understand the industry. It also provides data for operators.