The gravestone label receives the award for outstanding product design in 2019.A sign of change in German cemetery culture, hopes Managing Director Alexander Hanel.
The family business Rokstyle from Middle Franconia has played a key role in shaping the cemetery image in recent years: Managing Director Alexander Hanel has recognized the need for individuality and designed gravestones with Swarovski stones or glass inlays. The third-generation stonemason also develops designs for grave jewelry manufacturers. He won the German Design Award for one of these: The “Magic Stars” grave light combines stainless steel with Swarovski crystals and ornate bronze relief plates.
The Rokstyle brand is now available internationally and from over 450 retailers. Hanel says: “When it comes to the cemetery, many still have a dreary gray in mind. However, the image of the cemetery has changed dramatically in recent years.” He wants to contribute to further change with his creations. German cemetery culture is too rigid and dreary for him. Hanel’s gravestone designs are therefore also inspired by other cultures in which the culture of death celebrates the deceased. Hanel also wants to modernize the gravestone design process itself: For example, his customers can use an online configurator to put together their desired gravestone.