Originally built in 1877, the St. George Utah Temple is the oldest operating Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is a Neo-Gothic-style building with many local variations and interpretations considered unique and historically important. The building was renovated extensively in 1976 in a highly contrasting style resulting in the decision now, many years later, to return the building to its original character.
The architectural solutions required careful attention to detail as new construction is juxtaposed next to existing historical elements. A temple also accommodates the highest expression of worship for the Latter-day Saint Church, leading to a very attentive client during the design process and construction. The original 40,000 SF historic building remained with extensive interior renovations. The 90,000 SF annex, which was added during the 1976 remodel, will be demolished and rebuilt in the original historic style.
North Entrance
A stunning plaza, water fountain, and seating all help create a gathering place for temple patrons. Palm trees flank the path from the parking lot to frame the facade, which was designed to reference the architecture of the historic temple’s east tower.
Assembly Hall
The fourth floor of the historic temple remains the least modified level since its completion in 1877. The renovation finishes were refreshed, benches replicated from the original design were replicated, and modern artificial period-appropriate light fixtures were designed and added.
Bride’s Room
The sole piece of glass artwork in the temple is a leaded glass skylight with stunning artwork, which brings in natural daylight.
Celestial Room
This room was expanded to the south to incorporate an adjacent room, bringing natural light from the south-facing windows.
Temple Foyer
The north addition includes a high bay with clerestory windows, bringing natural light to many interior spaces.
Chapel
The addition of the high central bay to the north allowed for a more monumental space for the chapel.
Instruction Room
The architecture and murals of the third level were carefully designed to restore the character of the original space.