At the Glade
The chapels top an artificial ridge looking down on the lawn to the west. Below the ridge, Kapellvägen, skirting, the woods, leads to the parking
facility and serves the practical functions of the chapels, making it a natural link with the new crematory. A path branches off towards the crematory at
the point where steps descending the ridge meet the first side road. From the second side road, a wall guides the visitor along a gently sloping road up
towards the crematory entrance and office. Beyond the buildings one can see the light from the woodland glade. To the south, the visitor can make out
the bright chapels in between the trees. The forecourt is kept open between large trees. It is an advantage, the new building being clearly visible from
here: the impression must not be given of activities being conducted covertly. A footpath, a shortcut for the staff, accesses the entrance from
the south.
Coffins arriving from outside are referred to Östanvindsvägen, en route for the reception hall and mortuary. The road up to the crematory follows the
old road and also goes in the direction of the bright woodland glade.
The crematory building is functionally divided into different volumes. This subdivision makes it possible to follow the hill along the +39 gradient,
thereby conforming closely to the natural levels of the terrain. The room configuration, from reception hall to urn release, is logistically determined.
The control room is strategically positioned to command a view of both insertion and outdoor and indoor transport movements.
Inside the entrance the visitor encounters a secluded courtyard, an atrium, viewed from the waiting position and room for urn release. The mourners’
room at the insertion facility also has contact with the courtyard. People must be able to go and wait outside if they so desire. For the insertion we
imagine people gathering round the coffin in front of the furnace. Part of the room is separated off with draperies; the ceiling here has subdued
lighting and can be lowered. For the staff too, the courtyard will be a frequently used part of the interior, enhancing the dignity of the task.
