The columbarium at Forest Cemetery in Riga, Latvia, offers a thoughtful response to the themes of memory and mourning. Set within a peaceful natural area, the design serves as a space for reflection and remembrance. By integrating the structure with the surrounding landscape, the design creates a calm environment dedicated to honoring those who have passed away.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout consists of two columbaria organized around a central square. The smaller northern columbarium is designed for private reflection, providing a path to a prayer torch. In contrast, the larger southern columbarium serves families, featuring terraced niches for burial. This arrangement allows for different experiences, accommodating both individual needs and communal gatherings.

Central Square

At the center of the design is a sunken square featuring a cross of light. This element contributes to the meditative nature of the site, as it can also function as a water basin, reflecting natural light. Visitors are drawn to this focal point, engaging with both the architecture and the natural surroundings, enhancing their experience of remembrance.

Architectural Detail

The buildings extend horizontally along the terrain, blending with the gentle slopes of the landscape. Meanwhile, two vertical towers rise, establishing a connection with the surrounding trees and sky. Inside, timber arches define the spaces, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. This choice of material encourages feelings of intimacy, allowing visitors to feel embraced by the environment of remembrance.

Light and shadow interact within the interiors, shaping the atmosphere and guiding visitors through the space. As people move through the columbarium, they encounter a variety of emotional responses, each influenced by the thoughtful design choices made throughout the project. The focus on these details enhances the overall experience of honoring the lives remembered within this setting.