Oldenzaal Crematorium: vibrant brick volume radiates desired serenity

Ecological Nature7 Brick R and narrow linea 7036 join forces to create striking relief pattern

The new Oldenzaal Crematorium is situated in a beautiful location, near the cemetery, in a landscape characterised by wooded countryside and gentle hills. The small developed area – initially only earmarked for a cremation area – led to the sleek, compact design in which the ceremony room and the reception room are positioned above the cremation area. This called for a mindful study of the internal logistics and, in particular, the transporting of the coffin from the lower floor – half of which is below ground – to the ceremony room above. A special hydraulic lift was designed for this purpose.

The concept is a sleek volume that emerges against a green wooded backdrop, with views out towards an open landscape of grass and water. A wall of glass offers a wide view of the landscape from the ceremony room. The idea behind the design was to create a special atmosphere for the guests who are saying goodbye to their loved ones. The coffin has the sky and green fields as a backdrop. The natural surroundings help the guests process the difficult, special moment of saying goodbye and give them space to focus on their memories.

The ceremony room holds approximately 120 people and can be extended to include the reception room in the event of services for larger groups.

Positioning the building in the landscape meant that special attention had to be paid to the materials used. The minimalistic design was consequently formulated using materials that were natural, earthy, sleek and elegant and also enhanced the horizontality. The colour of the brickwork is natural and contrasts with the green surroundings, echoing the nuances of the trees.

The special brick bond was chosen to form a pattern of horizontal lines and create a vibrant façade. The ecological Nature7 Brick R brick and the thin, long linea 7036 turned out to be the right combination for this. Their green-grey colour blends beautifully together while the different formats are a vital part of the intended relief pattern.

The main brick volume of the crematorium sits on a black metal plinth. The same black metal has been used for the window frames and the partition that hides the installations from view. The combination of soft, light and vibrant brickwork and the sleek and dark metal plinth strengthens the composition of this simply designed yet powerful building.

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