Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Client: Lakewood Cemetery

Status: Completed in 2024

Area: 5 acres

Team: TEN x TEN, Snow Kreilich Architects, Miller Dunwiddie, JE Dunn Construction, NTH, Meyer Borgmann Johnson, Schuler Shook, Pierce Pini, Cause Sustainability, True North Consulting Group, Emanuelson-Podas, Global Specialty, Coastwise Fireguard, Kvernstoen, Rönnholm, & Associates

Awards: 2024 AIA Minnesota Commendation for Excellence in Design for Energy

Slideshow Photos: Gaffer Photography

To re-imagine the role of a cemetery in modern life and make memorialization more relevant, inviting and accessible to current and future generations, Lakewood Cemetery initiated a new building and landscaping project that aligns with their progressive, nonprofit vision.

Lakewood’s desire to create a more relevant, accessible, and inviting experience led to the holistic re-assessment of the greater site and the design of a new Welcome Center. The unique context of the historic lawn cemetery and existing architecture necessitates the integration of landscape and building, and a careful balance of tradition with innovation.

TEN x TEN has designed an inviting and accessible landscape that aligns with Lakewood’s commitment to sustainability and horticultural excellence while also honoring the site’s historic significance. The project includes a 25,000-square-foot, environmentally-conscious Welcome Center and surrounding gardens and walking paths that offer an enhanced experience for the thousands of people that Lakewood welcomes and serves each year.

Goals of the project included a more welcoming front entry with contemplative gardens and walking paths that are open to the public; a new building for serving families and our community that is warm, accessible and inviting for all generations, faiths and cultures; dedicated space for community education and engagement; expanded office space for a growing team of mission-driven advisors and service professionals; and responsible stewardship of Lakewood’s energy, water, and plant resources.