Types of Columbarium Suites & Niche Lots
Religious suites feature niche lots and ancestral pedestals within a peaceful environment inspired by Buddhist and traditional Chinese beliefs.
Depending on the suite, it may feature statues of Guan Yin (观音), Maitreya Buddha (弥勒佛), Tathagata Buddha (如来佛) or Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (地藏王). The interiors may also be decorated with Buddhist sutras, auspicious motifs and other religious symbols.
These suites are ideal for families who prefer a spiritually meaningful environment for remembrance, prayers and ancestral worship.
Free-thinker suites are designed to provide a peaceful and welcoming environment regardless of religious background.
Instead of featuring a particular deity, these suites are usually decorated with flowers carrying positive and auspicious meanings, such as orchids and lotus flowers.
Individual niche lots can also be personalised according to the beliefs of the departed and their family. For example, Christian or Catholic families may choose to incorporate a cross or a statue of Mother Mary into the niche design.
Combination suites contain both columbarium niche lots and ancestral pedestals within the same room.
Having both in close proximity makes family visits and prayers more convenient. Columbarium niches are used to house the urns of departed loved ones, while ancestral pedestals can be dedicated to ancestors (祖先) and family deities (家神).
This arrangement allows families to remember different generations and continue traditional worship practices within one dedicated space.
A single niche lot is designed for one urn and generally has a narrower interior space. It is typically one of the most affordable columbarium options, with prices commonly below $20,000.
Single niches are suitable for individuals who are single or simply prefer a quieter, more private resting space.
Double niche lots accommodate two urns placed side by side and are one of the most popular niche configurations.
Prices may start from approximately $15,000, depending on the suite, location and niche level. They are ideal for couples, siblings or even close friends who wish to remain together.
A single person may also choose a double niche for additional space and a more spacious, tranquil setting.
Tower niche lots can accommodate up to four urns, typically arranged as two urns across with two rows positioned front and back.
Prices may start from approximately $30,000. These niches are ideal for smaller families, such as parents and children, or grandparents and parents who wish to remain together.
Tower niches are relatively limited and are usually available within more premium or luxurious columbarium suites
Family suites are among the most spacious and luxurious columbarium options, designed to accommodate approximately 8–12 urns.
A typical configuration may feature two urns across, two rows from front to back, and multiple levels. Prices may start from approximately $100,000 depending on the suite and configuration.
Family suites are ideal for larger families or several closely connected smaller families who wish to have their final resting places together.
Selected family suites may also include complimentary ancestral pedestals (祖先牌位) and a personalised memorial plaque (牌匾), creating a private family memorial space inspired by the traditional ancestral hall (祠堂).
Due to the space and specialised design required, these configurations are relatively rare and are generally available only at larger, established columbariums LIKE NIRVANA MEMORIAL GARDEN SINGAPORE.
