Open Sided Shelter designed by Ron Shenkin Studio, The structure functions as a place of convergence of mourners and for the reading of eulogies prior to and during the burial. Its essential nature is that of a pavilion or open-sided shelter and is located next to the cemetery.
The building is comprised of two entrances, the smaller of the two serves the family of the deceased. There are two exits leading to the burial lots, one of which is easily accessible and the other is via a flight of stairs.
The structure has one solid stone wall to the west which serves to block any direct afternoon sunlight except what is allowed through via a long narrow window.
The area in which the structure is situated was surrounded by orchards which were originally raised to make space for new residential and commercial building projects. During the design process, we decided to take the surroundings into consideration By erecting a monument to the rural surroundings that were demolished for urban repurposing.
The monument consists of an exposed concrete slab symbolizing the expansion of construction. The slab is stabilized by tree-shaped metal pillars denoting the trees that were cut down. One oak tree remains within the structure. The ceiling above the tree was left open to allow for the presence of the tree to create a dialogue between the living tree and the metal symbols.
Photography By© Shai Epstein
On the northern side of the building, there is a line of concrete, beginning in the ground on the west side and climbing up through the window. Ascending to the roof, ceilings, and walls and making its final descent back to the ground – like a man who comes from dust and to dust returns.
The building materials and color pallet are Monochromatic consisting mostly of shades of grays and providing a sense of cleanliness, neutrality, and sadness.
During the evening the building is lit from the inside and out.
Plans and construction process:
The structure is designed using more than 300 panels of differing sizes and shapes and fitted together by computer software.
The panels were brought to the construction site and assembled by a team of contractors.
The metal ‘tree’ structures were brought to the site and assembled as per the design.
All iron works and structural designs were approved by engineers after which the walls were constructed by the remaining pallets. The concrete for the walls and roof was poured in one day.
Photography By© Shai Epstein
Project Info:
Architects: Ron Shenkin Studio
Location: Pardesia, Israel
Area: 3,465 .0 ft2
Project Year: 2014-2015
Photographs: Shai Epstein
Contractor: A.D. Haled
Project Name: Open Sided Shelter