Landscape Design - Cemetery Design

Enhancing Serenity and Safety at the Medical Lake Veterans Cemetery: The Medical Lake Veterans Cemetery holds a profound place in the hearts of many. Serving as a final resting place for veterans and their families, it is essential that the cemetery offers a respectful and peaceful environment. With a recent grant from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs is building a series of significant improvements aimed at enhancing aesthetics, safety, and operational efficiency of the site. A Tranquil Space for Remembrance A cemetery, particularly one dedicated to our nation’s veterans, should be a place that evokes peace, respect, and reverence. To create this atmosphere, Medical Lake Veterans Cemetery will undergo substantial site improvements. This project includes: • New Columbarium Layout: Featuring eight walls arranged to optimize the space and aesthetic appeal while ensuring a layout of 5,120 niches to provide ample space for individuals or families who wish to memorialize their loved ones. • Enhanced Landscaping: Carefully chosen native/drought tolerant plantings and trees will enhance the aesthetic appeal, providing a calming environment for visitors. Boulders and benches will enhance the overall appearance, creating a more inviting and peaceful space. • Improved Irrigation System: A more efficient pump and irrigation system will ensure that the new improvements remain lush and well-maintained throughout the seasons, providing a serene backdrop for visitors to reflect. Ensuring Privacy During Services: Concealment for Casket Delivery One of the critical operational challenges is the lack of privacy for families during services. Currently, the casket delivery is visible from the committal shelter, which can detract from the solemnity of the moment. To preserve the dignity of the service, the construction of a bypass road specifically designed for casket deliveries will ensure that families and guests can participate in services uninterrupted by staff or delivery vehicles. Hardscaping and Stairs: Accessibility with Dignity As visitors come to honor their loved ones, it is essential that the cemetery is easily accessible. The construction of new stairs will improve both the function and appearance of the site, ensuring safety and accessibility while maintaining a dignified atmosphere.