Cemetery Building in Erlenbach
31/10/2013.
By Andreas Fuhrimann Gabrielle Hächler Architects. [Erlenbach, Zurich] Switzerland
metalocus, SERGIO CIDONCHA
metalocus, SERGIO CIDONCHA
Memory of project
The situation of the new cemetery building constructionally brackets the grounds of the cemetery directly on the Lake of Zurich and the parallel lie of the church, placing the two buildings in dialogue with each other and spanning the graveyards between them. As opposed to the church, the functionally hybrid building is conceived as a pavilion to serve the secluded, intimate atmosphere of a cemetery. All of the uses are combined in a free form under a massive roof. Situated in the center are the rooms of the funeral parlor, which are accessed via a glazed corridor facing the cemetery. The green, mostly opaque panes provide a visual barrier, and the space forms an important interim area in which to prepare for the encounter with the deceased. The walnut paneling and the natural zenithal lighting give the funeral parlor an appropriate dignity, but also a warmth and comfort. The introversion of the spaces provides the silence for mourning and to take leave of the deceased.
The visitors’ room and the covered exterior space are orientated towards the most beautiful point overlooking the lake, and where small ceremonies can be held. Two perforated, ornamental concrete wall elements in the covered outside area create a protective but simultaneously solemn atmosphere. The archaic concrete construction contrasts pleasurably with the lightness of the glass façade, creating an abstract symbolism. The coloring of the panes of the façade in various tones of green and brown makes the pavilion part of the natural surroundings and is tied to a long tradition of applying colored glass in the sacred buildings of different cultures. The architectural expression of the building is intended to help the mourners in coming to terms with the exceptional circumstances in which they find themselves, and to provide a dignified and contemporary setting for the mourning rituals of all confessions.
Text.- Andreas Fuhrimann Gabrielle Hächler Architects
CREDITS.-
Main architect.- Andreas Fuhrimann, Gabrielle Hächler.
Team collaborators.- Regula Zwicky (project management), AFGH, Barbara Schaub, Carlo Fumarola (competition).
Client.- community Erlenbach.
Date.- 2009-2010 (construction), 2008-2009 (planning).
Site.- CH-8703 Erlenbach. Zurich, Switzerland.
Andreas Fuhrimann born 1956. Physics studies (4 semesters) and architectural studies at the ETH Zurich, 1985 architectural degree at the ETH Zurich under Prof. Dolf Schnebli. 1 year design and planning architect in the architectural office Marbach + Rüegg. As of 1987 co-operation with Christian Karrer. 1988 lecturer at the School of Design and Crafts in "interior architecture". As of 1995 co-operation with Gabrielle Hächler. 2005 admitted to the Association of Swiss Architects (BSA). 2009-2011 Guest Professor at ETH Zurich. Since 2011 Professor at UDK Universität der Künste Berlin.
Gabrielle Hächler born 1958. Art history studies at Zurich University, architectural studies at the Federal Technical Polytechnic (ETH) Zurich. 1988 degree at the ETH Zurich under Prof. Mario Campi. 4 years assistant lecturership in the Department of Constructionat the ETH Zurich. As of 1988 own architectural office. Temporary cooperation with other architects and artists. Since 1995 co-operation with Andreas Fuhrimann. 2005 admitted to the Association of Swiss Architects (BSA). 2009-2011 Guest Professor at ETH Zurich. Since 2011 Professor at UDK Universität der Künste Berlin.