Coffee Table Burial: A Unique Memorialization Option

Have you ever thought about turning a piece of furniture into a lasting memorial for a loved one? The concept of coffee table burial is an innovative and personal approach to keeping memories alive. This unique idea integrates the ashes of a departed loved one into a functional and beautiful coffee table, blending daily life with heartfelt remembrance. But is this method the right choice for your family? Let’s explore the emotional and practical aspects of the coffee table and see how it might fit into your way of honoring those you’ve lost.

What is Coffee table burial?

Coffee table burial, or furniture burial and household item interment, is a relatively new and unique method of memorialization where the ashes of a loved one may be placed within a coffee table or other piece of furniture. This concept allows a person to remain close to the deceased person by incorporating ashes or a part of the cremated remains into an ordinary item in the home.

This type of burial is not the same as most burial or cremation practices but is a better way of honoring the dead. The process typically involves working closely with skilled craftsmen or designers to create a functional piece of furniture that houses the cremated remains discreetly and respectfully.

This new way of honoring a deceased person can ensure that the family has a way of feeling close to their lost loved one.

The Process: How It Works

Worried about how this process takes place? This is a special way of remembering a certain person by converting ashes into a coffee table. Here’s the step-by-step process:

Cremation

First Step: The person is cremated, turning their body into ashes at a crematorium.

Ash Collection

Next Step: The ashes are collected and given to the family. These will be used to make the coffee table.

Design Phase

Planning: The family works with furniture experts to design the table. They decide on the look, materials, and how to incorporate the ashes. This step ensures the table is both functional and a fitting tribute.

Incorporation of Ashes

Adding Ashes: The ashes can be mixed with materials like resin or glass to become part of the table. Alternatively, they might be placed in a special compartment. This is done carefully to respect the ashes and safely integrate them into the table.

This process turns a regular coffee table into a unique memorial. It keeps the memory of a loved one alive in the family’s daily life.

Is Coffee Table Burial the Right Choice?

Choosing a coffee table burial is a personal decision. Here are key factors to consider:

Personal Connection

Does having a reminder of your loved one at home bring comfort or pain?

Family’s Perspective

Consider how your family and cultural or religious beliefs view a burial coffee table.  Talk to your family. Ensure everyone is comfortable with this choice.

Cultural and Religious Considerations

Check if this method fits with your cultural or religious beliefs.

Desire for Closeness

The burial table could present quite an unusual way of maintaining a connection in the house, so if you get a feeling that it helps to have a scent of something distracting you from your everyday life that may remind you of your special person you may find this table useful.

Practicality and Space

Does a coffee table with cremated remains fit well in your home without causing issues? If you appreciate unique, customized pieces of furniture and the idea of integrating design with memory appeals to you, this could be a meaningful option.

Legal and Regulatory Aspects

Know the laws in your area regarding cremated remains. Consider how this form of memorial will fit into your life and your family’s life in the future.

Emotional Impact

Consider how this choice will affect your grieving process and emotional well-being.

Think about these points carefully. Discuss with your family. If needed, seek advice from grief counselors. This will help you decide if a coffee table burial is the right choice for you.

Coffee Table Burial Vs. Glass Coffin Coffee Table

When considering unique ways to memorialize loved ones, two innovative concepts might come to mind: the burial coffee table and the glass coffin coffee table. Both integrate the idea of memory and presence into everyday furniture, but they do so in very different ways. Which one is best for you? Understanding the distinctions between the two can help make a choice that aligns with personal preferences and comfort levels.

Coffee Table Burial

• Concept: Involves incorporating the ashes of a loved one into a coffee table, often through a special compartment or by integrating the ashes into the table’s design. It’s a subtle approach to memorialization.
• Aesthetics: Typically elegant and understated, the memorial aspect is not immediately apparent. It can blend seamlessly with home decor.
• Interactivity: Offers a way to feel close to the deceased daily without overtly displaying the ashes. It’s more about presence and memory than a visible tribute.
• Emotional Impact: Provides comfort and a sense of closeness, making it a personal and intimate remembrance.
• Versatility: Easily integrated into various interior design styles. The memorial element can be as discreet or noticeable as desired.

Glass Coffin Coffee Table

• Concept: Is a more direct process of remembering, where the container is transparent including the use of a glass cover to make viewing the casket or the memorial space on the table possible. It’s a direct approach to memorialization.
• Aesthetics: The glass top makes the memorial aspect a central feature of the table’s design, likely drawing immediate attention and serving as a conversation starter.
• Interactivity: Encourages engagement and reflection by making the memorial visible. It serves as a clear reminder of the deceased, potentially with items, photos, or a visible urn on display.
• Emotional Impact: Can be more confronting due to the visible reminder of loss, but for some, it may provide a stronger sense of connection and openness in grieving.
• Versatility: May be more challenging to blend into all home decor due to its distinct nature. The design is more specific and might appeal to those who prefer a clear and open form of tribute.

Choosing between a coffee table burial and a glass coffin coffee table depends on how you want to remember and honor your loved one. Both offer unique ways to keep their memory close, but the best choice will reflect your personal preferences and emotional needs.

Pros

Emotional Connection

• Having a physical representation of the deceased at home can provide comfort and help with emotional healing. It allows for a constant, gentle reminder of the person.

Unique Memorialization

• This method stands out from traditional burials or cremations. It offers a unique way to celebrate the deceased’s life and can be a conversation starter that keeps their memory alive.

Functional Remembrance

• Incorporating ashes into a coffee table makes the memory of the loved one a part of daily life. It serves both a practical and sentimental purpose, combining functionality with remembrance.

Cons

Cultural and Social Perception

• Some may see this approach as disrespectful or strange compared to traditional funeral practices. It might cause discomfort or criticism among some family members or friends.

Practical Considerations

• Integrating remains into furniture can present challenges. Space constraints or design limitations may affect the table’s aesthetics or functionality.

Emotional Attachment

• While comforting for some, others might find it overwhelming to have the remains so closely integrated into daily life. It could potentially make the grieving process harder for some individuals.

Maintenance

• Regular maintenance of the coffee table is necessary to preserve its appearance and function. This can add an extra layer of responsibility.

Family Discussions

• Have open discussions with family members before making a decision. Ensure everyone is on board and comfortable with the chosen method of memorialization.

Consult Professionals

• Consulting with professionals who specialize in memorial furniture can provide valuable insights. They can help design a piece that is both respectful and functional.

Table burials offer a unique and personalized way to remember a loved one. Balancing the emotional and practical aspects is key to making an informed decision that honors the deceased while fitting seamlessly into daily life.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. The concept of coffee table burials represents a unique and evolving approach to memorialization, offering families a personalized way to honor and remember their loved ones.  It’s a strange, unexpected twist of fate. But it also raises some serious questions. Is it legal to disturb a burial site? Is a coffee table burial the right choice for your family?  What should you do if you find one? And, most importantly, how do you relax on your new coffee table knowing there’s a bit of history underneath?

References:

https://insureguardian.com/coffee-table-burial/

https://www.memorialplanning.com/burial-types