Designing a headstone is a deeply personal process. Beyond choosing the type of memorial, families often spend time considering the layout and overall design — how names are arranged, where symbols sit, and how the memorial reads as a whole.
In New Zealand, headstone layouts tend to reflect a balance between personal expression, cultural tradition, and cemetery requirements. This guide explores some of the most popular headstone layouts and design styles to help families plan a meaningful and well-considered memorial.
Understanding Headstone Layouts
A headstone layout refers to how text, symbols, and decorative elements are arranged on the memorial. A good layout ensures the headstone inscription is clear, visually balanced, and respectful, while allowing space for future updates if required.
Most layouts are designed around:
- The size and orientation of the memorial
- The amount of inscription text
- Cultural or religious elements
- Long-term family considerations
Thoughtful planning at this stage helps avoid overcrowding or design limitations later on.
Traditional Upright Headstone Layouts
Upright headstones often allow for more design flexibility due to their vertical surface. Common layouts include:
- Centred inscription layouts – Names and dates aligned centrally, creating a formal and symmetrical appearance.
- Top-feature designs – A symbol, carving, or religious motif placed at the top, with text below.
- Panelled layouts – Divided sections for names, epitaphs, and decorative elements.
- Family headstone layouts – Designed to accommodate multiple names over time, with spacing planned in advance.
These layouts are popular in traditional cemetery sections and family plots.
Flat and Lawn Memorial Layouts
Flat headstones and lawn plaques require a more compact approach. Layouts are typically horizontal and focus on clarity rather than ornamentation.
Popular options include:
- Single-line name and date layouts
- Two-column designs for shared or companion memorials
- Bordered layouts that frame the inscription subtly
- Central motif layouts with a small symbol above or beside the text
Because space is limited, careful font selection and spacing are essential to maintain readability.
Cultural and Personalised Design Elements
Many New Zealand families incorporate cultural or personal symbols into their headstone designs. These elements are typically positioned above, below, or alongside the inscription to complement the overall layout.
Common inclusions are:
- Māori motifs such as koru or pikorua
- Pacific-inspired patterns or floral elements
- Religious symbols like crosses or doves
- Nature-inspired imagery reflecting hobbies or values
Integrating these elements requires balance, ensuring they enhance rather than overpower the inscription.
Text Layout and Typography Choices
Font selection plays a major role in how a headstone is read and remembered. Traditional serif fonts are often chosen for their timeless appearance, while simpler styles may suit modern designs.
Layout considerations include:
- Line spacing for legibility
- Consistent font sizing across names and dates
- Clear separation between inscriptions and epitaphs
- Allowing space for future additions if required
Experienced designers can help ensure the text layout remains harmonious and easy to read over time.
Planning for Future Inscriptions
Many families choose layouts that allow for additional names to be added later, particularly for shared or family memorials. This might involve:
- Leaving blank space intentionally
- Using symmetrical layouts that can be extended
- Designing panels or sections for future inscriptions
Planning ahead avoids the need for major redesigns later on.
Design Support and Consultations
Choosing the right layout can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing emotional decisions with practical considerations. At Sanctuary Memorials, our experienced team works closely with families through personalised headstone layouts and designs consultations, helping translate ideas into thoughtful, compliant memorial designs.
We guide families through layout options, material choices, and long-term planning to ensure every memorial feels right.
Final Thoughts
A well-designed headstone layout brings together form, meaning, and remembrance. By understanding common design approaches and planning thoughtfully, families can create a memorial that honours their loved one’s life while standing the test of time.
At Sanctuary Memorials, we’re proud to help New Zealand families create memorials that reflect care, craftsmanship, and lasting tribute.