Mandai North Crematorium represents the fourth generation of public crematoria to be built in Singapore over a span of 62 years. Designed as a green sanctuary that offers a healing environment for the bereaved, it provides a tranquil and dignified setting for the final send off.

Taking cues from the original land profile, the building form rises towards the forested hill in the east. Layers of greenery are incorporated into the rising form, creating a man-made landscape that visually merges with the surrounding natural landscape. The architectural form synchronises with its internal functions, allowing the two-storey cremator spaces to occupy the tallest part of the building.

A range of urban greening strategies are employed to create a sense of being surrounded by greenery within the tight confines of a built-up site. This includes hanging gardens, sunken gardens and layered greenery that are interwoven with the building volumes. The interplay of light and shadow with the greenery heightens the presence of nature by casting gentle, dappled light into the interior spaces.

Photography: Finbarr Fallon, CPG Consultants