Cemetery Design involves creating a place for people to say their last farewells. It is a complex process that requires thoughtful planning to optimize land utilization and provide accessibility for all visitors.
The grading for each Burial Section should achieve one predominant uniform slope. This minimizes maintenance costs and enhances the overall aesthetics of the cemetery landscape.
Master Plan
Bidding a loved one farewell is never easy and it’s crucial that a cemetery reflects the sentiment. A master plan acts as a proactive road map for the cemetery that optimizes land utilization and provides long term sustainability which in turn improves overall aesthetics.
Once the different program elements have been identified and located on the site map, the phasing process begins. The design must be developed in a manner that respects the cemetery’s historical and cultural traditions while balancing development with landscape preservation and incorporating the best modern practices.
The phasing may include the addition of a new cremation section, renovation of existing chapels for columbarium use and improved visitor arrival areas. The master plan should also allow for the future expansion of a community mausoleum to allow significantly higher density use of space on the grounds. The design must avoid hierarchy within spaces to foster a collective experience of respect. It is important that the design considers both traditional burial and contemporary options for cremated remains as well as how those spaces will relate to the larger campus.
Landscape and Architecture
The landscape and architecture of a cemetery should be well-planned to create a harmonious balance. The cemetery layout design should allow for proper flow, clean mowing lines, reduced maintenance and improved aesthetics. Trees should be carefully sized and positioned to prevent overgrowth or blockages to pathways. Plantings should be researched and selected for climate, soil conditions and flow. Water features like ponds should be considered.
Mourners often leave flowers and a small posy beside a plaque or in columbarium walls. Newer designs have taken this desire into consideration and include a metal clip or loop beside each plaque designed to hold a flower or small posy.
Integrating cultural elements into the architectural design of a cemetery can improve its ambiance and sense of comfort. One example of this is the use of biomimetic design, which uses ideas and concepts inspired by nature to develop innovative architectural solutions.
Accessibility
Cemeteries are a peaceful environment for mourners and good cemetery design can contribute to the positive atmosphere. It also impacts how well the cemetery runs in terms of operational efficiency and cost.
Modern trends influencing cemetery architecture are a result of changing needs and values in society. Examples include green burials that focus on preserving the natural landscape, reflecting a larger push towards environmental conservation. The integration of technology into a funeral is another trend, as it allows grieving families to connect with their loved ones even when they are miles away.
In many cases, topography determines which way a grave faces within a Burial Section and this should be taken into consideration when designing the layout of roads within the cemetery. Generally, roads should not be sloped more than 10% to avoid soil erosion and ensure that all interments are accessible.
Signage
Whether for directional signs, monument plaques or informational maps the cemetery sign design needs to be sympathetic and blend in. It is also important that the cemetery signage is vandal proof, easy to clean and durable.
The Entry Feature defines the character of the cemetery, imparts respect and serenity, creates a transitional element and impacts visitors entering and leaving the site. It may include a gate structure that is unique in form and low-scale landscape plantings that vary colors and textures.
Circulation is one of the most important aspects of a design concept because it determines horizontal and vertical movement, accessibility, and waysfinding. The use of light, both natural and artificial, is a key element that influences the perception of space, sets the mood and serves many functional purposes. The use of light accentuates textures, emphasizes spatial depth and reflects the changing character of a space throughout the day. It is important that the lighting scheme is consistent with the overall architectural style of the project.