Salt Lake Tabernacle

Historic preservation and renovation were the main design goals for the Salt Lake Tabernacle. During preliminary phases of the project, FFKR Architects reviewed historic documents and developed the scope of work for the renovation and seismic upgrade. The project included an overall seismic upgrade, replacing the electrical and audio visual systems, overhauling the mechanical system, and bringing the building up to standard code while maintaining the building’s historic character, acoustical quality, and feel. Utility system locations were coordinated in the construction process due to limited site space. New building elements were given particular attention to match the historical character and design found throughout.

The major scope of the seismic upgrade included: connecting the floor to the walls and trusses to the piers, making structural connections between the foundation, walls, and piers, stabilizing the existing king post trusses, plaster ceiling system, and organ structure. Other upgrades included: strengthening the connection between the roof and plaster ceiling to the trusses, strengthening the foundations, stone piers, roof trusses, roof diaphragm, and choir bowl.