Mesa Arizona Temple Renovation

The historic neoclassical Mesa Arizona Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was dedicated and opened in 1927. In 2018, it was announced that the temple and its surrounding 20-acre site would undergo major renovations to restore interiors to historical styles, update building systems and reconfigure the grounds to better showcase the temple itself and more easily accommodate the annual Easter pageant. The design for the grounds was inspired by the neoclassical architecture of the temple and the formal original 1921 site plan which included cypress trees, orange groves and cactus gardens. Contemplative gardens are organized around the main building sightlines to frame the building and provide gathering spaces for visitors, tourists, temple patrons and wedding parties. Small citrus groves are distributed through the site offering refreshment for visitors and giving a nod to the groves that were once part of the site. Large reflecting pools on the north and west axes reflect the historic building on their mirror-like surfaces and create dramatic photo opportunities. A recessed great lawn accommodates the large crowds that attend annual Easter pageant performances. Care was also taken to preserve historic trees, perimeter fences, and terra-cotta accents. The temple and its grounds will reopen in 2021.