End spaces : cremation and the architectural meaning of death in Johannesburg

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.