Crematorium Heimolen

The ensemble for the crematorium in Sint-Niklaas has been divided into two buildings: a ceremonial and a technical one (the crematorium proper). The two buildings have the same footprint area but are showing two different programs with inverted design solutions. The technical building is a volume on a clean platform, the reception building is a roof wrapping and embedding public functions. Emptiness, space and clarity predominate in the ceremonial building. A large window offers a contemplative view of the cemetery and landscape, the floor-to-ceiling doors give the room a dramatic quality, and the perforation of the ceiling with round lights reinforces the solemn atmosphere. The use of natural stone and wood enables concentration and ease of thoughts. The actual crematorium building owes its character to the façade composed of concrete cassette tiles, with a sprawl of sun light dots that show it as a beauty box without giving away its content. Winner of the 'International Funeral Award' 2008; Winner of the 'Betonprijs 2009' (Concrete Award 2009); Special Mention for the 'ECSN Award for Excellence in Concrete' 2010