Manhattan New York Temple--a building within a building..

This temple was created within the existing shell of the New York, New York Sake Center.  The stake center was renovated to occupy the third and fourth floors with the temple located on the first, second, fifth, and sixth.  Converting  a meetinghouse into a temple provided members with many unique opportunities to serve.  Prior to demolition, members removed light fixtures, sinks, blackboards, tables, and chairs to use in other Church locations.  As the extensive remodeling progressed, members frequently cleaned the building to keep the construction dirt and debris to a minimum.  Extra cleaning efforts were made each Saturday in preparation for Sunday worship. 

Most temple visitors nowadays expect to drive to a temple, park their cars, and take a leisurely walk past beautiful landscaping and fountains as they approach the front doors, allowing themselves a few moments to redirect their thoughts and prepare to enter the House of the Lord.  The Manhattan Temple, however, is a complete contrast to the traditional temple setting.  The doors of the temple open almost directly onto busy and noisy Columbus Avenue, just a few feet from Broadway.  Mere inches separate the spirit of the temple from the world outside.  Walking from crowded streets and immediately seeing the temple recommend desk can be a pleasantly shocking experience for guest of the temple.  

Temple missionary Brent M. Cederlof observed, "As people enter the temple, they are frequently astounded at the difference they see and feel.  Many people are so overwhelmed they shed tears upon entering.  The sharp contrast emphasizes the difference between the temple and the world."

The temple has a special feature that helps maintain its spirit.  Although city noise never stops, it cannot be heard within the walls of the building.  Extensive design and construction techniques were implemented to create a building within a building.  The soundproofed inner shell creates a quiet, serene, atmosphere where members can enjoy peaceful reflection--a unique opportunity in the heart of New York City.

Amazing!!