Architecture for mourning should provide
a place for memories to be recollected and
made. Loss is a dynamic occurrence that
changes but never fully goes away. Hof-
manDujardin’s concept building and Kaan’s
crematorium not only acknowledge the
process of grief but lead the way from stage
to stage. – KGBelgium, that lies within an undulating land-
scape of hills, ponds and trees. The austere
building’s function is unrecognizable from
the outside. Its single entrance ushers visi-
tors into a network of rooms that accom-
modates up to 12 services a day.
Vincent Panhuysen, who cofounded
Kaan Architecten, aimed for a space that
could be used by everyone. It contains no
imagery or forms of religious affiliation,
focusing instead on commemorating the
life of the deceased. Velvety surfaces and
an abundance of natural light combine in
a deeply contemplative environment. The
‘transparent’ operation of the furnaces is
complemented by machinery painted pale
yellow, a warm hue that envelops a room
whose chimney ascends into a void of light.
Although a crematorium facilitates a
very private experience, the building in Aalst
is a public space. The circulation plan allows
for both movement and emotion. ‘In a very
natural way, the layout dictates the route that
people take within the building,’ says Pan-
huysen. ‘My ambition was to make a building
that would guide people in their emotion.’SPACES 109