Three rooms

Contemporary funerals can be seen as a memorial of the deceased’s life. As a culture, we are generally less ceremonial than in the past but nevertheless there is still a clear sequence of moments that characterize memorials.

The first moment is the gathering of friends and family, the actual ceremony of remembrance forms the second, followed by a third moment of social encounter. HofmanDujardin translates this into a series of three carefully shaped rooms around an epicenter: the space for the coffin.

Sharing memories

In the first room, the assembly of relatives, friends and known associates is enclosed by a memory wall. This multimedia screen, on which family and friends can share videos and photographs of moments with their loved one, forms a lively collage celebrating the deceased’s life. The images form a background to the silence and can be translated into a downloadable video clip. The vivid wall creates a sublime shared moment in which to collectively relive stories and memories.

Saying goodbye

The space for the actual remembrance ceremony defines the shape of the three rooms. Its triangular plan creates intimacy in both small and big groups. The two curved walls and the ceiling bend inwards to create a passage as the center for the coffin. Behind, an expansive empty space opens towards a panorama of the surroundings. The shape implies a flow back towards nature, closing the circle of life.

Celebrating life

After the ceremony, a third space offers the opportunity for guests to socialize. The timber clad walls and floor create a warm and comfortable atmosphere. The neutral round serving tables make the room suitable for formal and informal events.