Most people are familiar with a mausoleum, but not everyone has heard of a columbarium or understands the purpose it serves. Sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably, but there is one major difference. Columbarium Planners has designed and built columbariums for churches and cemeteries since 1994, to provide a sacred place to house the urns of those who have passed on. Let us explain how these structures differ from mausoleums, and how they can honor your loved ones.

Columbarium Design and Construction

What Is a Mausoleum?

A mausoleum is not entirely different from a columbarium. A mausoleum is a building or structure which houses the remains of those who have passed away. Mausoleums are above-ground resting places most commonly used for caskets of people who don’t wish to be buried underground. They may contain some slots for urns with cremated remains, but they primarily hold caskets.

What Is a Columbarium?

A columbarium is a permanent structure made up of niches, or spaces, where urns containing the cremated remains of loved ones are kept. They provide a sacred final resting place for those who have been cremated and can be either indoors or outdoors. Both churches and cemeteries can have these structures built and may wish to include gardens and other landscaping features that will create a beautiful space for remembering those who have passed on. 

The Popular Choice

Did you know that cremation actually surpassed burial as the more popular choice back in 2015? Columbarium Planners has completed many columbarium projects to support that choice over the years, and no two are alike. We take our time with each of our clients to ensure we meet all of your needs and bring your unique vision to life.

Request More Information Today

Columbarium Planners has set the standard for creating sacred spaces that honor and protect the cremains of those who have passed away. We work with a team of site planners, landscaper architects, and facility designers who are all ready to partner with you to create a sacred columbarium. You can reach us at (910) 295-8328 or request information now. Located in North Carolina, we build columbariums in the Eastern half of the United States, including South Carolina, Virginia, and beyond.