Exploring the Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple
The Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple holds the distinction of being the 143rd dedicated Temple currently in operation. Nestled in Davie, Florida, the Temple is situated at 3901 SW 154th Ave, Davie, Florida 33331, and spans a generous 16.82 acres.
Fort Lauderdale Flordia Temple Photography by LDS Temple News
The journey towards the establishment of the Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple began on October 3, 2009, when the Prophet Thomas S. Monson announced it to the public during General Conference. On June 18, 2011, Walter F. González conducted the groundbreaking and site dedication, marking a significant milestone in its development.
The Temple opened its doors for a public open house from March 29, 2014, to April 19, 2014. This event drew a substantial number of attendees eager to explore its interiors. It was dedicated on May 4, 2014, by Apostle Dieter F. Uchtdorf, who remarked, “This is a special day in history for the Latter-day Saints.”
Notable Architectural Features
The design of the Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple is impressive, covering an area of 30,500 square feet with an overall height of 99 feet 10 inches. The exterior is finished with architectural precast concrete, while the eye-catching single attached end spire is crowned with a Gold-leafed Angel Moroni Statue.
Inside, the Temple includes two instruction rooms, three sealing rooms, and one baptistry, carefully planned to accommodate various activities. The aesthetic appeal is enhanced by exterior art glass featuring long grass leaf motifs designed to mirror the natural environments of Florida. The colorful palette of blue, green, and earth tones reflects the coastal serenity of the area.
How to Make the Most of Your Trip to Fort Lauderdale Florida’s Temple
The interior design features original hand-painted murals by artist Brad Aldridge, showcasing South Florida’s unique landscapes. The interior light fixtures include Schonbek chandeliers, chosen to complement the Neoclassical architectural style. Doors crafted from Red Grandis wood sourced from Ecuador, complemented by bronze hardware, add an additional layer of elegance to the space.
Local Community Context
The Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple is the first built in Davie and Broward County, making it a significant addition to the area. It is also the second Temple constructed in the state of Florida. In its early establishment, it was recognized with the ENR Southeast’s “Best Projects” award for 2014 in the Cultural/Worship category.
This Temple was the southernmost Temple in the contiguous United States until the McAllen Texas Temple was dedicated in 2023. The prominent languages spoken in the surrounding area include English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole, reflecting the diverse populace that the Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple serves.
In essence, the Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple represents a pivotal addition to the fabric of Florida, melding architectural beauty with the spiritual aspirations of its community.
Fort Lauderdale Flordia Temple Photography by LDS Temple News