Jewish Memorial Gardens

Client

Jewish Memorial Gardens

Location

Ottawa

Completion

2016

The Jewish Memorial Gardens were established in the early 1890s, becoming a space of great significance for many generations in Ottawa. The gardens cover 14 acres with more than 4,150 burials, some of which span three generations. A major revitalization project in 2014 involved creating a new formal grand entrance off Bank Street, with a new access road leading to a formalized and accessible lot. The new entrance building enhances security and holds public washrooms and a directory.

The focus for the revitalization involved three main spaces. The first being the relocation of the Holocaust Memorial to a more peaceful and serene area, the design and construction of a formal courtyard, and planting with seating. The second was a reflective garden that includes a military monument paying homage to those men and women who have served both Canada and Israel during times of war, a shade shelter with carefully detailed wood arbours and masonry walls, seating, a covered canopy offering space for ceremonies to be held in inclement weather, and intricate planting with seasonal interest. The final area of focus was the addition of a historical garden that offers a private, reflective space and incorporates historical arbour and added seating.