The thought of death is often accompanied by images of cold marble headstones or anonymous graves. But what if it was possible to transform cemeteries into living places, rich in greenery and natural symbols? This is the vision of Frédéric Permentlandscape designer from Aiffres, who conceived the idea of a vegetal tomb. The intuition, born in 2015 thanks to the request of a grieving couple, has turned into a concrete project that unites design, memory and environmental sustainability.
It is not just an aesthetic alternative, but a real change of perspective: with this tomb, life continues even in death, in a harmonious fusion with nature.
The project began with a specific question. A couple, struck by grief, asked Perment to create a burial that was not the classic and cold marble slab. Their request opened a new path, pushing the landscape architect to imagine an alternative that was more humane and warmer: a vegetal tomb.
The structure of the tomb is in Corten steela material known for its resistance to atmospheric agents and for the natural patina that it develops over time, giving it a unique appearance. The upper surface is covered with a carpet of seduma succulent that grows slowly, resists drought and requires little maintenance.
This innovative idea found space in the Sète cemetery, next to the tomb of the famous poet and singer-songwriter Georges Brassens, demonstrating how it is possible to create a link between the memory of the deceased and the surrounding environment.
How the vegetable tomb works
The plant tomb is much more than a simple container: it is an ingenious and sustainable system. At the base is a Corten steel container filled with clay ballswhich retain moisture, and a layer of geotextile felt which separates the plant substrate. The sedum, chosen for its resistance and ability to adapt to the seasons, decorates the surface with shades that vary from green to red, giving color and life even to the saddest places.
This solution offers several options: the most creative can personalize the tomb by choosing flowers, shrubs or aromatic plants, transforming the place into a space that reflects the personality and wishes of the deceased. Furthermore, Perment proposes two versions: the ready to use kitdesigned for funeral businesses, and the customizable versionsuitable for the needs of private individuals.
Costs and benefits
The vegetal tomb is not only innovative and ecological, but is placed in the price range of traditional tombs. In France, a classic burial can cost from 3,000 to 5,000 euros. With a starting price of around 3,600 euros, this Corten steel tomb represents a sustainable choice without further burdening family finances.
In addition to the economic benefit, the minimalist design and low environmental impact make this option particularly suitable for those who want to leave a lighter footprint on the planet.
