Salt Lake Temple Renovation: Victorian Splendor Meets Modern Upgrades in Ambitious Expansion

Salt Lake Temple Renovation Enters Fifth Year, Church Unveils Interior Plans

As the Salt Lake Temple renovation project approaches its fifth year, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has provided an exclusive look into the ongoing interior renovations. The ambitious project, which began in December 2019, aims to restore the iconic temple to its original Victorian-era splendor while incorporating modern seismic upgrades and expanding its capacity.

The renovation team, comprising historians and preservationists, is meticulously working to recreate the temple’s original design, which had undergone several alterations throughout the 1900s. Original design elements are being incorporated into fabrics and carpets, while the new north entry pavilion is set to embody the essence of a Victorian-era temple.

Significant structural changes are underway to enhance the temple’s functionality and capacity. The renovation will introduce two baptistries and nine additional sealing rooms, bringing the total to 22. An underground expansion will add 100,000 square feet to the complex, allowing for single-room video presentations in over 90 languages.

While some structural elements could not be preserved due to necessary seismic upgrades, these have been carefully photographed and will be archived in the Church History Library for future reference.

The Church has released renderings showcasing the planned changes, including the new north addition entry pavilion, a grand staircase and hall, the renovated celestial room, and the expanded baptistries and sealing rooms. The updated design also features new instruction and veil rooms.

Modern systems and utilities are being integrated to improve efficiency and visitor experience. These include updated mechanical systems, new elevators, state-of-the-art heating and air conditioning, and improved plumbing. The layout is being simplified for easier navigation, with 1960s infrastructure removed to create a more seamless experience.

The ambitious renovation project is scheduled for completion in 2026, marking a new chapter in the history of this iconic Salt Lake City landmark. As work progresses, the Church continues to balance preserving the temple’s rich heritage with the needs of its growing congregation and the demands of modern building standards.