Mount Auburn Cemetery
Bigelow Chapel and New Crematory
Project
Bigelow Chapel and New Crematory
Client
Mount Auburn Cemetery
Location
Watertown, MA
Completion
2018
Size
10,400 GSF
Category
Renovations + Additions
A revitalization of the 1845 Bigelow Chapel and a modern, state-of-the-art crematory addition enhanced Mount Auburn’s historic entry precinct. The all glass addition allows uninterrupted, emotionally comforting views in Mount Auburn’s inspirational landscape, looking out over the landscape upon arrival, before finding a more contemplative garden in the internal viewing room where the commitment ceremonies occur.
The recent renovation and expansion underscore the progressiveness of Mount Auburn’s mission with suitable elegance, grace, and aplomb.
Suzanne Stephens, Architectural Record, Feb 2020
SITUATING AN ADDITION IN A HISTORIC PRECINCT
New circulation path from the Bigelow Chapel to the crematory addition
Section through the Bigelow Chapel and crematory
Section through the addition entry sequence
Site plan of Mount Auburn's historic entry precinct
In Bigelow Chapel, the colorful rose windows were fully restored while the raised chancel at the altar and lectern were lowered to create truly accessible and more flexible space. Improved lighting and a new fire protection system were seamlessly integrated into the historic fabric. With this restoration along with code and universal design upgrades, Mount Auburn is using Bigelow Chapel for public programs for the first time in decades.
Awards + Recognition
2020 AIA New England Design Excellence Honor Award
2020 Architect's Newspaper AN 'Best Of' Design Institutional Religious Award Honorable Mention
2020 Architect's Newspaper AN 'Best Of' Design Restoration and Preservation Award Honorable Mention
2020 BSA Harleston Parker Medal Finalist
2020 BSA Design Excellence Award
2020 Faith&Form Magazine/IFRAA Religious Architecture Renovation Award
2020 IES Boston Section Illumination Merit Award for Interior Lighting Design
2019 Preservation Massachusetts Fredrick Law Olmstead Award
2019 Victorian Society of America New England Chapter Preservation Award
Project Consultants
Structural Engineer | LeMessurier Consultants, Inc.
Mechanical / Electrical Engineering | RFS Engineering
Landscape Architect | Halvorson | Tighe & Bond Studio
Lighting Consultant | Horton Lees Brogden Lighting Design
AV Consultant | Acentech
Photographer | Robert Benson