By 
The Memorial Dignity Mausoleum, an initiative by the People of the Street Foundation, stands as a unique tribute in Latin America, offering funerary units and a space for remembrance dedicated to those who lived and passed away on the streets of Santiago de Chile.
Design and Concept
Designed by Fundación Gente de la Calle in collaboration with Grass+Batz Arquitectos, the mausoleum occupies a 270 m² area and was completed in 2022. Due to the unavailability of conventional sites, the architects ingeniously repurposed an existing structure to house the mausoleum, thus minimizing land acquisition costs.
Architectural Features
Situated on an abandoned elevated street overlooking the urban panorama of Santiago, the mausoleum stands as a symbolic juxtaposition of urban harshness and serene contemplation. The lightweight metal roof, a striking addition to the structure, provides shade and transforms the space into a tranquil area within the bustling cemetery complex.
Rehabilitation and Structure
The project entails the rehabilitation of a 100-meter-long elevated street, offering a space for contemplation and relaxation. Without demolishing the existing building, the architects integrated two parallel rows of columbaria, serving both as funerary units and benches for visitors, totaling 372 units.
Design Elements
The design seamlessly blends the new roof with the existing structure, utilizing corrugated galvanized aluminum for the roof to create a stark contrast with the historical texture of the original pavilion. The black color of the roof symbolizes death in Western culture and complements the layers of history embedded in the pre-existing tomb pavilion.
Conclusion
The Memorial Dignity Mausoleum stands as a testament to architectural innovation and social consciousness, providing a dignified resting place and a space for reflection for those who once roamed the streets of Santiago. Through its thoughtful design and repurposing of existing structures, it embodies the values of remembrance and respect for the departed.
Comments