FROM THIS TO THAT

SL Temple renderings released in 2020 vs the updated renderings released in 2024:

Shortly after President Nelson announced the renovation of the Salt Lake Temple, the LDS Church released the official renderings of what the rooms in the Salt Lake Temple would look like. There was not too much change, other than maybe new carpet and chairs. The news release stated the following:

“The four additional renderings released today indicate the careful and elegant approach we are taking in the renovation of this house of the Lord. We also look forward to welcoming many visitors to Temple Square during the next few years to witness this historic renovation.”

"The renovation is expected to be complete in 2024 and followed by a public open house and rededication."

However, last month, the Church released new renderings showing a significantly different design for the Salt Lake Temple, with the projected completion still years away. I believe they completely restructured the interior of the Salt Lake Temple, removing the muraled walls and reconfigured them to be theatre rooms. The previously painted mural rooms will now resemble luxurious megaplex theater  and live sessions will no longer be held in the temple. The current completion date is set for the end of 2026, with a world-invited open house expected to last nearly a year, likely pushing the opening date for temple use to early 2028. 

Here is a side by side view of the rendering that were released in 2020 to the current renderings of what to expect at the end of 2026.

 FROM THE THIS TO THAT:

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Before renovation of the Terrestrial Room and Baptistry on the Left to the new renderings on the right.

Sidenote: If the Catholic Church were to "earthquake-proof" the Vatican, I wonder if they would prioritize preserving the historic murals or if they might consider painting over the Sistine Chapel ceiling? I hope the former option.

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Not only have there been significant changes to the design of the new Salt Lake Temple, but it was also announced that the Temple Garment has undergone renovations. There is now a sleeveless option.  Out of respect for the garment, I won't post a photo of it, but I will share what can now be worn with the new design. Currently, only in hot and humid climates can these garments be purchased but will be available in the United States in 2025. https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2024/10/17/heres-when-sleeveless-lds-temple/

Here's when sleeveless LDS temple garments will be coming to the U.S.