Järvafältet

Within the scheme of Järva 2030, Stockholm has formulated an open competition for the creation of a concept and design for a new cemetery at Järvafältet. The Järvakilen area is considered to be one of the most valued green spaces in Stockholm. Characteristic of it is the valley with the Ingelbäcken brook and tree clusters on its sides. These elements structure the green basin and enclose many functions. The former Granholmstoppen landfill literally sticks out above everything; the specific topography asks for diverse user possibilities and makes the mountain a landmark for the valley.

According to the plan by Karres en Brands, Gransholmstoppen will become an icon for the passage between life and death. The top of the mountain will be completely levelled. The open space generated because of this will form, together with the long stair to the top, a symbolic role in the private interment ceremony. Moreover, the top can also be used as a recreation area, for example, by paragliders and mountain bikers. The forested zone around the hill is the basis for the cemetery. In fact, the plan is a vegetative strategy; for every person buried, a tree will be planted so that cemetery and forest grow simultaneously. As a result, local tree types will be planted in phases and gradually colour the area. An intelligible and simple path forms the tangible link between forest and central open area.

Where the tree symbolically stands for life, the dead are seen as emptiness. The burial grounds are therefore cast as ‘rooms’ in the forest. Birches, oaks and pine trees surround the field of graves. The design of these spaces is sober and subtle. The contour lines are modelled and will be connected via an architectonic element. This element, such as an urn wall, bench or pond, defines the ‘room’ and relates to the cemetery’s function. In later times, the trees of the deceased will bring back intimacy in the rooms. Their character can vary, depending on different (funerary) cultures.

The path around the ‘endless tree walk’ is the auditorium. The building marks not only the location of the ceremony, but also works as a boundary between the ‘forest of life’ and the ‘emptiness of death’. The building symbolizes the eternal circle of life as well. People never leave the path; it is there always.