The Willamette National Cemetery expansion consists of 5,000 columbarium niches and 3,000 in ground cremains spaces. The columbarium walls are sited in the natural topography of the hillside creating enclosed pathways that offer space for solemn reflection. The walls are strategically designed with openings to provide views into the adjacent woods while screening undesirable elements such as the parking lot. Stormwater is captured throughout the site through crushed stone edges along the walls and transferred to three scuppers that create a waterfall like feature into a bioretention facility below, visible at one of the wall openings.

Client: US Dept. of Veteran’s Affairs

Team: Mayer/Reed, KPFF

Status: Completed with Mayer/Reed

Credits: Images courtesy of Mayer/Reed