This project explores ways to evoke sacredness without religious affiliation. It is a sacred space for mourners and visitors who seek self-contemplation, a place to gather, and a place to remember those who have passed, through strategies of space, sensation, and natural phenomena. The design is a non-denominational space for visitors of diverse religious affiliations. Three main programs drive the form and division of the buildings with connecting points between each one. The Reception, Sanctum, and Mausoleum work simultaneously to create a sequential experience using material qualities and light. Our intent is that through strategies of atmosphere, form, scale, materiality, illumination, and shadow, we foster an environment with a quiet but strong presence that can encourage experiences of the ineffable.

Jury Comments: A moving sacred space for gathering and remembrance is presented through strong perspectives that capture the experience, the atmosphere and the play of light and shadow in this project. The jury appreciated the restrained material palette and unexpected arrangement of space, both in plan and section.