Temple Architecture - a Brief Overview

Many people are surprised to learn that the inside of a Mormon Temple is not one large cathedral-like worship space, but rather a series of small rooms, each with a specific function and purpose.

For example, here is a floor plan for some of the newer temples, such as those in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Fort Collins, Colorado:

Temples can differ widely from each other in looks and layout. Some are one story, like the plan above, and others are two, three, or even four or more. Some, like the Salt Lake Temple, have staggered floors and therefore don't really have conventional 'stories'.  While all temples are unique, they all are used for the same purpose and have the same rooms or areas inside.  These include:
-guest waiting areas
-recommend desk
-offices
-dressing rooms
-bride's room
-baptistery and font
-confirmation rooms
-waiting chapel
-ordinance rooms
-celestial room
-sealing rooms
-interior waiting areas
-training rooms

I will be reviewing each of these rooms and their functions in future posts.

Since temples are meant to be special, sacred places built to glorify God, many of them have custom-built furniture, custom artwork, and other unique details. Newer temples are built with the surrounding culture in mind for both decor and architecture.  Floral motifs reflect plants found in the local area, murals depict the natural beauty nearby, and even exterior features have glimpses of traditional techniques (such as a mission-style facade in Mexico).