Exploring New Dimensions

Traveling through the vast fields of mausoleums in large urban cemeteries in places like New York City and Chicago, it is easy to get the impression that all mausoleums are substantial and authoritative structures. To be sure, most mausoleums are built of rather heavyweight materials. After all, they are designed to last for eternity. And eternity does favor the substantial.

Proper building techniques, combined with an adequate perpetual care plan, enable mausoleum architects to explore unique design options and create some very interesting mausoleums. One material most people don’t associate with mausoleums is large expanses of glass.

To be sure, most mausoleums contain some sort of stained glass window, but modern laminated glass manufacturing techniques render glass virtually unbreakable. Designers use various configurations and sizes of glass to creating a feeling of lightness or airiness.

Also, there are no rules dictating that a mausoleum has to be completely solid. Designers incorporate durable metals like bronze, stainless steel, and brass to create a more open-air feeling.

Even mausoleum doors need not be solid and heavy. Indeed, when a design incorporates angels and birds, lightweight doors get the message across better.

If the builder of the mausoleum opts for underground crypts or a sarcophagus, the mausoleum can be completely wall-less like a gazebo. When configured this way, the mausoleum is called a canopy tomb.

Just like their residential counterparts, there is a sameness to many mausoleums, but throw in a little personal taste and creativity and the sky is the limit.

Text and copy © Douglas Keister Visit Doug’s Author Page
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