American design firms Lehrer Architects and AyD join to create the vertical mausoleums at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. The two use thick concrete slabs to build the space, followed by the integration of trees that rise from the edge. Lehrer explains the design of the space, noting, "The goal was not monumentality originally. Its structure became monumental by dint of solving for the architecture. I don't think we ever used the word 'monument' but, in the end, it is, literally."
The Hollywood Forever Cemetery features 22,500 crypt spaces and 30,000 areas for ashes over the five-storey building that overlooks the iconic Hollywood landmarks. The open design also leaves room for the trees to grow freely in between and for breezes to come through.
Image Credit: Tim Griffith
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Vertical Cemeteries
- Innovative architects are transforming traditional burial practices by constructing vertical cemeteries that save space and integrate natural elements.
- Green Architecture
- The incorporation of living trees into concrete structures demonstrates a trend toward sustainable and eco-friendly architectural designs.
- Monumental Minimalism
- Modern mausoleums display a trend towards simple yet monumental architectural solutions that focus on functionality and aesthetic integration.
Where This Applies
- Architecture
- The architecture industry is exploring new directions by integrating natural elements into urban designs to create eco-conscious structures.
- Funeral Services
- As space becomes a premium, the funeral services industry is seeing innovations in vertical burial solutions that are both practical and dignified.
- Urban Planning
- Urban planners are increasingly considering vertical solutions in design plans to create sustainable and space-efficient developments.
