Manhattan New York Temple Photography by LDS Temple News
The Manhattan New York Temple, situated at 125 Columbus Ave, Fourth Floor, New York, New York 10023, is a significant addition to the New York City skyline. Located at the intersection of West 65th Street, Broadway, and Columbus Avenue, it finds itself in proximity to renowned locations like Lincoln Center and Central Park. This property is the 119th dedicated Temple in operation and uses a clever adaptation of an existing Church-owned building that was completed in 1976.
Construction and Development
Announced to the public on August 7, 2002, by Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley, the dedication and groundbreaking took place shortly afterward, on September 23, 2002, by Spencer J. Condie. The site underwent careful renovations, including demolition which began on September 2, 2002. By spring, construction started on what would become a beautiful edifice standing at 120 feet in height and occupying 20,630 square feet on .3 acres of land.
In an interesting twist, the Manhattan New York Temple was built from an existing stake center. The design encompasses the top three floors, while various administrative areas and meeting facilities occupy other floors of the six-story building. This multipurpose approach mirrors successful developments, like those in Hong Kong, where real estate costs are exorbitant.
Details and Features
The Temple features one baptistry, two instructional rooms, and two sealing rooms, making it functional for various needs. The exterior is finished with beautiful Travertine, and it is adorned with a single attached end spire topped by a striking 10-foot tall Gold-leafed Angel Moroni statue. The figure of the Angel Moroni was added on October 9, 2004, enhancing the Temple’s picturesque skyline presence.
Art and Design
Visitors to the Temple can enjoy an array of artistic elements, including:
- Exterior Art Glass: Large panels that mimic flowing water, enhancing the exterior’s calming ambiance.
- Interior Art Glass: Features a prominent foyer mural portraying Christ on the road to Emmaus, backlit windows created by artist Tom Holdman, and olive branch motifs that add an element of natural beauty.
- Mural Highlights: The interior includes artwork such as a mural of the Jordan River in the baptistry and majestic Hudson River Valley landscape murals in two endowment rooms.
Interior & Lighting
The interior is carefully designed with backlit synthetic Venetian art glass windows, creating a simulated daylight effect, while unique lighting fixtures provide illumination along the Columbus Avenue colonnade. Door hardware is festooned with designs inspired by the Statue of Liberty, further enriching the thematic attention to detail that characterizes the Temple.
Renovation Plans and Future
As of March 2, 2024, the Manhattan New York Temple is undergoing extensive renovations expected to last approximately three years. During this period, Church members in the area are encouraged to attend the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple or the Hartford Connecticut Temple. Details regarding a public open house and a rededication will be announced as the renovations approach completion.
The Manhattan New York Temple is indeed a notable entity not just for its architectural beauty but for its rich history and significance within the local and broader contexts. With its unique approach to construction, artistic integrity, and continuing evolution, it remains a treasured site for many in New York City.