Complete Renovation Overview of Temple Square and Its Historic Buildings
For over a century, Temple Square in Salt Lake City has stood as a symbol of faith, history, and community. As one of the most visited and revered sites in Utah, it’s crucial that these sacred and historic structures are preserved and upgraded for future generations. Recently, an extensive series of renovations and improvements have taken place across the entire Square—modernizing facilities while preserving their timeless beauty.
Here is a comprehensive review of all the major renovation projects at Temple Square and its iconic buildings:
1. Salt Lake Temple Renovation (2019–2026)
- Seismic Safety Upgrades
- Base Isolation System: Nearly 100 base isolators installed beneath the foundation to allow the temple to sway up to five feet during earthquakes, protecting structural integrity.
- Foundation Reinforcement: 46 deep holes (~150 ft) drilled through granite walls to house post-tension cables anchoring the spires. Steel tubes filled with concrete inserted under existing footings via a “jack and bore” process for added stability.
- Roof Support: Heavy-duty steel roof trusses support the roof and strengthen the connection between the north and south walls for ongoing resilience.
- Interior Restoration & Preservation
- Victorian Revival: Restoring the interior to reflect the original 1893 style with authentic dark woods, period lighting, and rich colors.
- Murals & Artwork: Original murals carefully documented, photographed, and preserved; murals replaced to accommodate seismic upgrades.
- Historic Features: Cast-iron oxen for baptismal font, Tiffany glass windows, and spiral stone staircases meticulously restored.
- Updated Mechanical & Electrical Systems: Replacing aging systems with energy-efficient, high-tech equipment.
- Expansion & Accessibility
- Underground Addition: A three-story, 100,000-square-foot underground expansion to the north with new ordinance and administrative spaces.
- Increased Capacity: Sealing rooms expanded from 13 to 22; a second baptismal font added.
- Navigation & Technology: Replaced 1960s-era corridors with a modern central hallway; installed high-capacity elevators; switched to multimedia, multi-language presentation systems.
- Outer Grounds & Infrastructure
- New Entry Pavilions: Two elegant pavilions with skylights at the north entrance.
- Underground Access Tunnel: Pedestrian tunnel beneath North Temple Street connecting Conference Center parking to the temple.
- Plaza & Landscaping: Redesigned grounds with lush landscaping, reflecting pools, and snow-melting systems for winter.
2. Joseph Smith Memorial Building (2019–2025)
- Major Renovation (2019–2025)
- Focused on seismic upgrades, accessibility improvements, and aesthetic updates.
- Roof Tower Reinforcement: Significant structural enhancements for safety.
- Lobby & Mezzanine Redesign: Creating a warm, open “family room of Temple Square,” celebrating community and reflection.
- Garden Restaurant: Reopened with a bright, family-friendly atmosphere, replacing the former Nauvoo Café.
- Interior & Exterior Updates
- Restored historic features such as the original cast-iron oxen at the baptismal font and Tiffany-glass windows.
- Modern mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems installed for efficiency and sustainability.
- Additional Space & Accessibility
- Underground expansion added three floors, increasing available space for offices and visitor activities.
- Accessibility improvements include new elevators and improved pathways.
3. Other Structures and Grounds Enhancements
- Tabernacle & Conference Center
- Ongoing maintenance and structural reinforcement to preserve acoustics and functionality.
- Renovated interior spaces to support large musical and religious events.
- Church Office & Public Spaces
- New entry pavilions with skylights enhance welcoming atmospheres.
- Redesigned plazas feature updated landscaping, reflecting pools, and snow-melting walkways, making outdoor spaces more inviting and accessible.
- Additional Features
- Newly built underground pedestrian tunnels for easier access between parking lots and the temple.
- Renovated plazas around the temple and nearby buildings, incorporating modern landscape design and amenities.
Summary
This comprehensive renovation effort has harmonized historic preservation with cutting-edge safety measures and modern visitor amenities. From seismic upgrades to elegant new public spaces, the entire Temple Square now exemplifies resilience, beauty, and service—ready to welcome generations of visitors and members alike.
Stay connected for ongoing updates and come experience the transformed Temple Square—where history, faith, and innovation come together.