A Thoughtful Design for Helsinki’s Growing Needs
Verstas Architects has crafted the Malmi Mortuary and Farewell Spaces in Helsinki with a subtle blend of stone, timber, and brick. Nestled next to Finland’s largest cemetery, Malmi Cemetery, this structure adeptly addresses the demands of an ageing population and serves as a compassionate space in times of loss.
Space That Honors Diversity
Conceived to be neutral and accommodating to a variety of traditions, the mortuary includes four farewell rooms. “In our increasingly multicultural city, there is a rich spectrum of customs for life’s significant passages,” explained Verstas Architects.
The building consists of two distinct sections. Approaching from the west, visitors encounter a single-storey façade wrapped in thin grey brickwork.
A Retreat Around Water
Centered around a tranquil reflecting pool framed by expansive glazing, the visitor facilities offer a serene atmosphere. Privacy is paramount, with natural light cascading into the farewell rooms through ceiling lanterns, illuminating pale travertine surfaces and creating a warm inviting space.
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Customizable and Comforting Spaces
Walls and ceilings adorned with slatted spruce contribute to a quiet and soothing environment. Two of the rooms include sinks for ritual washing, and floors in these areas are finished with light-colored brick tiles.
“The aim has been to create a comforting and gentle space,” Verstas Architects highlighted, ensuring it reflects diverse cultural traditions.
Functional Design Meets Elegance
The eastern half of the building houses more functional mortuary spaces, characterized by durability and simplicity. It includes a single-story area with multi-level storage, effortlessly blending strength with elegance through sleek white finishes and metal furnishings.
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Founded in 2004, Verstas Architects draws from a rich portfolio that also includes the circular timber pavilion for the Helsinki Biennial. Their current work stands alongside other significant designs like the concrete and grey marble Crematorium Siesegem in Belgium.
Photographs by Marc Goodwin beautifully capture the essence of this sensitive design.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What materials are used in the Malmi Mortuary design?
The Malmi Mortuary in Helsinki is designed with a subtle blend of stone, timber, and brick.
How does the design accommodate different cultural traditions?
The mortuary includes four farewell rooms designed to be neutral and accommodating to a variety of traditions, reflecting the rich spectrum of customs in an increasingly multicultural city.
What features contribute to the mortuary’s serene atmosphere?
Centered around a tranquil reflecting pool and illuminated by natural light cascading through ceiling lanterns, the use of pale travertine surfaces and slatted spruce enhances the serene atmosphere.