Reflect and Remember: 6 Contemporary Crematoriums

Dating as far back as ancient times, the burial of the dead, tomb constructions, and other after-life rituals were cornerstones of history and culture as well as architecture and engineering. However, throughout history, cremation was not the most popular way to send off the dead — many religions looked down upon the method and some deemed it illegal. Even after it was legalized by many common religions, early crematoriums oversaw maybe two to three cremations per year.

To not be left behind, crematories began to embrace the idea of beautifying and elevating the cremation process. New crematories began to adapt windows and marble floors, frescoed walls, and additions of chapels as well as waiting rooms to create an experience that was both sanitary and reverential.

The challenge that lies in the architecture is designing an empty space for both the dead and the living — creating a place of remembrance and introspection for the bereaved and a peaceful place for the passed, all the while meeting the needs of the practical functions and technology of cremation. The following collection brings together a number of crematoriums across the globe that leverage empty space to create unique design features, establishing an ethereal space.

The Oaks Crematoriumby PWP Architects, Havant, United Kingdom
This project was designed with a low height and to be a module of the landscape. In keeping with this design concept, the green roof makes the crematorium appear to be rising out of the surrounding meadow. The use of timber allows the mourner to feel at peace amidst natural harmony.

Crematorium in Kedainiai by Architectural bureau G.Natkevicius and partners, Kėdainiai, Lithuania
The project was the first crematorium in Lithuania and was designed to capture introversion. As such, multiple foyer entrances of concrete surfaces create an enclosed space of reverence while sparsely placed smaller windows emanate an ethereal glow. The cold materiality with warm light creates a space of deep thought.

Communal Crematoriumby Henning Larsen Architects, Ringsted, Denmark
This project was designed to respect the passed and the mourners. Instead of confinement of cremation and separation of chapel and crematorium, the Communal Crematorium allows family to follow the cremation process. The users are also enveloped by light that changes throughout the day, passing through and reflecting off of gracefully undulating ceilings.

Crematorium Heimolen by KAAN Architecten, Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
Emptiness, space, and clarity predominate this ceremonial building, allowing the bereaved to reflect in peace and calm. Large windows allow contemplative views and the floor-to-ceiling doors give the interior a more stark, dramatic quality. Perforated ceilings and concrete cassette tiles on the façade create a beautiful and solemn atmosphere.

Vestfold Crematoriumby PUSHAK, Vestfold, Norway
Unlike many other crematoriums, this project does not hide the oven room and the chimney, instead placing them in plain view. This visibility and transparency paired with the material choices implement a stark yet warm quality. The site location alongside a beech forest, secluded from any other infrastructure, creates a peaceful setting in which to send loved ones away.

Erode Crematoriumsby Murali Architects, Erode, India
This project imbues monumentality with pyramid structures that resonate with the grandeur of spirituality from the ancient pyramids of Egypt. The long walkway leading to the crematorium allows users time to mourn and respect the lost.