Sustainability is a big part of this building. Utah leader Brigham Young declared over a hundred years ago when pioneers first arrived in the state that waterfalls would flow from green rooftops. This inspired the massive green roof, with groves of large trees, stone walkways, and flowing streams. At 1.4 million ft², was completed in 2000 as an authority in green building. The dispelled heat island effect is noticeable, as water from the roof flows to the street level and around the city. I can only imagine how how it would be atop the roof without the greenery.
Deep light wells penetrate this roof to fill the main auditorium area. Vast walls of glazing in the foyers also contribute to a natural atmosphere. Expensive art pieces of Mormon culture are on display there. A waterfall flows in front of one large window, adding interesting shadows to the interior.
The auditorium fits 21,200, for the LDS general conference and special events. This vastness of this space cannot be overemphasized. The 7,667-pipe organ isn’t as impressive as the organ in the neighboring Tabernacle building, but the designers paid impressive attention to acoustics. There is little echo.
Leland Gray designed this with Zimmer Gunsul Frasca and Auerbach & Associates. In 2000 I heard a project designer speak about the building. The auditorium was achieved with a single massive steel spine that took considerable effort to fabricate and hoist into place. The matching granite cladding of a blocky design gives a Native American feel to the historical Temple Square.
Along with the Conference Center, new lush landscaping and water features add to an amazing atmosphere.
