De Nieuwe Ooster
On 22 November, Jet Bussemaker, Minister of Education, Culture and Science, has granted the 2014 Gouden Piramide (‘Golden Pyramid’) award to the cemetery and crematory ‘De Nieuwe Ooster’ in Amsterdam, for the multiannual restoration of its parks and buildings.
The first part of De Nieuwe Ooster was built in 1889 after a design by L.A. Springer. In 2014, an extensive restoration and renovation has nearly been completed. The award-winning design by landscape architects Karres en Brands for a new ash burial field also included a vision for the entire area. The most recent part of De Nieuwe Ooster was designated for new developments. This area was divided into parallel strips, like a barcode, which accommodate a variety of ways to commemorate the deceased. The restoration of its original qualities was accentuated in the entrance area.
The Gouden Piramide is the state prize for inspirational commissioning work.