REQUIEM - FROM ONE SIDE TO THE OTHER by RUC from mexico

Requiem
“A place where any person—regardless of nationality, race, religion, age or affluence—can be laid to rest. By choosing this site as a final resting place, any citizen of the world can contribute to a growing monument to tolerance, reconciliation and unity.” Joan Miró

Why does death have to be so hard? Leaving our loved ones behind is a natural process of life. Requiem becomes a place to hold intensely personal and private moments. It is a universal platform that creates a common dialogue between different cultures celebrating the end of a natural process. Atmospheres of solemnity, silence and respect are reinforced by natural elements such as water and light. Light has a divine and pure symbolism, while water is considered a merging point between humans and nature.

The promenade begins as the visitors encounter a minimal platform defined by two juxtaposed walls and descend to a path guided by water and light. The intention of descending is to immerse the visitor into an unexpected atmosphere in order to disassociate from reality, a moment for disconnection. The remembrance hall is the first space that appears. A hall where visitors can accompany their known relatives in their loss, a place for physical farewell. At the patio, the deceased can be cremated, a process that is entirely natural to other cultures.

“For dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.” Genesis 3:19

Gazing at the stars has always been a reminder of our temporary presence in this world.

Requiem should be located at approximately 150-mile radius away from any urban settlement. These locations are unique spots where stars can be properly seen by the naked eye. This place for bereavement is a neutral place designed to have a direct connection with the stars and the universe, a precise cosmic stair. The climax experience is kept in the resting place where the crypts are on their final repose. An open place completely exposed to natural conditions on any world location. The visitor is always accompanied by the sound of falling water to transmit an ambience of serenity.

At the center of the resting place a meditation point emerges to touch the sky. A 170 sq. ft. monolith allows the user to only look up and reason the cycle of life. A path leads to the exit.

Finally, the visitors conclude their experience ascending from a natural pond. The exit is entirely different from the entry as it symbolizes the closing of a life cycle. This is the point where water sends the visitor off. As one walks away or leaves behind this sanctuary of life-death, a reconnection to the real world ensues, allowing the visitor to experience a state of peace or peaceful reflection.