VA Riverside Cemetery Phase 5

Riverside National Cemetery is one of the first major national cemeteries developed after World War II. RHAA prepared the original 750-acre master plan for the Department of Veterans Affairs and was honored to be selected to return 50 years later to design Phase 5. As cemetery planners, our work encompasses everything from circulation and site planning to the fine details of the rich materials used within the columbaria courts.

The sweeping columbaria arch is the defining feature of Phase 5, providing intimate spaces for reflection while maintaining open views toward the burial sections. New cortege lanes, restrooms, and a maintenance building are carefully screened by berms, allowing the structures to remain subservient to the landscape. Our goal is to honor our nation’s veterans in their final resting place through a design that is both meaningful and enduring.