A columbarium is a structure specifically designed to house cremation urns containing the ashes of the deceased. Its purpose is to provide a permanent, dignified, and accessible final resting place for cremated remains, allowing families a dedicated space for visitation and remembrance.

Unlike a traditional grave that involves in-ground burial with a headstone or grave marker, a columbarium is an above-ground structure consisting of small compartments or urn niches for urns. A mausoleum typically houses full-body casket burials, though some may incorporate columbarium sections for urns.

Columbariums come in various forms, including indoor columbariums (often within chapels or buildings), outdoor columbariums (freestanding structures in gardens), and designs that accommodate either individual urns or multiple urns for family columbariums. Materials often include granite and other durable stones.

Yes, personalizing columbariums is common. Most urn niches have a front plate that can be engraved with the deceased's name, dates, epitaphs, or symbols. Some options allow for ceramic photos or other custom embellishments to create a unique memorial niche.

When selecting a columbarium, consider cemetery regulations regarding size and material, whether you prefer an indoor or outdoor setting, the number of urns you need to accommodate, and your desired level of personalization. Our team can guide you through these choices to find the perfect cremation memorial.