Abstract:
The dissertation explored the spatial and architectural
parameters that create meaningful interactions within
ritual and sacred spaces, focussing on the Braamfontein
Crematorium as a site primed for re-ritualisation and
pragmatic retrofitting.
Through a number of approaches, including Applied
Hermeneutical Analysis, the types of interactions
between ritual participants, objects and thresholds were
deconstructed and a new programme for the
crematorium site was developed which elaborated on the
ritual of cremation by incorporating staged spaces for
different ritual mourners and participants, such as a
presentation room - designed to facilitate the first
presentation of ashes to loved ones, as well as a new
series of open-air columbaria which provided much
needed additional interment space for the Braamfontein
Cemetery site. This process re-ritualised a site that had
begun to fall into a state of pure industrial function,
despite its significant heritage and ritual value to the City
of Johannesburg.
