The thoughtful design of burial grounds is oftentimes influenced by the underlying research and general understanding of concepts such as memory and interpretive learning. While these research areas serve as important informants of the redesign and restoration of African American burial grounds, a deeper understanding of the historical and social context of these resting spaces is needed to design cemeteries that are respectful, redemptive and restorative of both ecology and social justice. 

Research has found specific design processes, elements, and characteristics contribute to remembrance, responsibility, and interpretation in a cemetery setting. 

Here are six patterns we identified in successful designs for landscapes of remembrance, in particular as it relates to African American landscapes of remembrance.

Historic and culturally significant landscapes that highlight memory, responsibility, and interpretation are most successful when visitors are able to engage with the narratives being presented. Designers can achieve that engagement through both overt presentation and subtly providing space to reflect. These case studies look at instances of each approach and provide some insight into the benefits of each.