Krematorium Treptow

One of the most interesting recent architectural projects realized in Berlin.

The previous crematory in Baumschulenweg was built in 1913, but was found to be environmentally hazardous due to construction defects, with further operation only possible due to special regulatory exemptions. In 1992 an architectural competition was held for the design of a new crematory and Axel Schultes and Charlotte Frank were awarded the project on the basis of their open, restrained and contemplative designs. Construction began in 1996, quickly following the closure of the old crematory the previous year.

The new crematory, opened May 3, 1999, provides an atmosphere both ceremonial and simple. Upon entering the visitor is ushered into one of the building’s architectural high points, the Condolence Hall: more then 20 columns rise into the sky and pierce the hall’s ceiling, allowing light to float gently downward. Not viewable to the public is the expensive core of the crematory, the furnaces, cremulators, and the fully automated coffin lair.