5 key facts about this project
The Columbarium in the Forest is focused on creating spaces for remembrance and reflection within a natural environment. Located in a dense forest, the project combines three main elements—a fountain, a pavilion-like building, and a small pond. Together, these elements work to provide visitors with varied opportunities for contemplation and connection to nature. The design emphasizes harmony between architecture and landscape, offering a serene setting for those seeking solace.
Fountain Experience
Visitors approach the site and first encounter a long fountain that stretches from the road to the lawn. This water feature enhances the area's visual appeal and creates a calm atmosphere. It also serves a practical role, allowing visitors to wash their hands after placing flowers and lighting candles—gestures of remembrance. The fountain marks the beginning of a reflective journey, drawing people into the deeper spaces beyond.
Pavilion Structure
A gentle slope leads to the pavilion-like building, which features a single-pitched roof that identifies its form. This structure directs attention toward important areas within the site. The entrance consists of a narrow, dimly lit passage that opens into a colonnade. The columns are designed to echo the surrounding tree trunks, helping to unify the architecture with the natural landscape. Various small doors invite visitors to explore, making the experience feel more personal and engaging.
Interior Arrangement
Inside the columbarium, visitors find two different types of rooms that offer varied experiences. One room features panels that cover niches for urns, along with a large round table for arranging flowers. The second room has small cantilevered platforms extending from the niches specifically for floral offerings. This layout accommodates both shared remembrance and personal reflection, allowing visitors to navigate emotional journeys. The different room depths add to the complexity of the experience, creating engaging spaces.
Pond and Pavilion Interaction
Leaving the columbarium brings visitors to a pavilion overlooking a peaceful pond. Here, the space shifts from openness to a more enclosed feel, framed by tall pine trees that enhance intimacy. A long bench near the pond provides a place to rest, while the pond itself features slender edges that create a reflective surface. This design detail invites quiet moments of contemplation, allowing visitors to connect with the surrounding environment. The calm reflections in the water provide a moment of pause amidst nature’s presence.