Funeral facility Boschhuizen
typology
location
client
The new funeral facility ‘Boschhuizen’ is located within the forest on the outskirts of Venray. The use of natural and sustainable materials ensures that the building blends in with its wooded surroundings. The smooth transition between interior and exterior creates a calming atmosphere that offers comfort to the visitors.
The sculptural building is directly connected to the hononymous cemetery along the access road. The use of natural stones and brick is in harmony with the natural surroundings and has an inviting and warm character.
After the farewell ceremony, one is escorted along a patio to the funeral lounge. Water is used as a symbol of transition, from living to passing. In various cultures it is customary to situate buildings around a courtyard. A universal gesture with a spatial potential that has still not lost any of its meaning. It provides a beautiful view of the sky, as a last salute. Next of kin can scatter the ashes of the deceased on special fields, near the urn graves and cemetery. After saying goodbye, you can go to the funeral lounge, which also serves as a meeting lounge. This is unique. When leaving the building, a vertical natural stone disc guides visitors to the car park.
Openings are created by lifting and extending volumes. An extended portal leads visitors through a frameless glass strip to the auditorium. Those interested are directed to the auditorium via the patio with pond.
The glass plinth makes the auditorium look like floating and draws the landscape from outside in. Without being disturbed by the nearby cemetery or backhouse. The openings give the space a tranquil and sacred character, making the farewell more personal. Similarly, the natural stone wall creates a relationship with its wooded context, by applying the material to both the outer and inner facade. It gives the building a natural feel, which is enhanced by the fresh use of colour in the interior.
An informal route leads visitors from the main route through the forest to the rear of the building, where one enters the backhouse. The funeral visit is held in one of the four private rooms. Oriented like houses along a peaceful street. The funeral facility, office, and urn shop are in the southern section of the building. This part is more oriented towards the living and the earth.