Madoka Aihara, Bas Spaanderman (YUUA)

This Funeral Hall design is inspired by Kyomachiya townhouses; the building hosts a sequence of quiet inner gardens, extending the interior and creating serene spaces for prayer and remembrance. The interior spaces are visually closed off from the outside world but still illuminated with natural light through the inner gardens and protruding roofs. The only room without natural top light; the farewell room has dimly lit candles surrounding the coffin, thus providing a special space for guests to say goodbye to their loved ones one last time.