HONOR AWARD FOR RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE: RESTORATION
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mesa Arizona Temple
GSBS Architects || Mesa, AZ
Paul Richer
The Mesa Temple renovation honors the connection between people, place, and history. Built in 1923 by early pioneers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, the temple’ s Neoclassical exterior became a sacred landmark for Mesa. Over time, remodels and additions adapted the building to new needs, sometimes straying from its original vernacular. This renovation restores the temple’ s historic character while preparing for the present and future.
The design renews comfort, function, and beauty throughout the building and transforms the grounds into a welcoming, safe, and serene setting for visitors. Every decision was made with care, preserving original materials where possible and reinstating lost historic elements. While much of the terra-cotta endured, the main entrance and courtyards were redesigned using historic documents.
Reconfigured layouts improve circulation, accessibility, and function while reestablishing original character. Upgraded systems enhance efficiency and resilience of the renovated Beaux-Arts landscape. Inside, artisans revived murals, plasterwork, stone finishes, and period lighting. The project reflects collaboration, craftsmanship, and stewardship, ensuring the Mesa Temple endures as a spiritual and architectural centerpiece for generations.
JURY COMMENTS: This project embodies the meaning of a truly comprehensive restoration. The dedication of the owner and design team was fully apparent in their careful study of the site, its architecture, and the finishes and furnishings of the interior. As they restored lost and degraded features of the temple, they also sensitively upgraded mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and the seismic retrofit system. Additionally, the presentation of the project in the recipient’ s submission packet was exceptional!
SACRED PLACES • SUMMER 2026 27