Provo, Utah, boasts a rich architectural heritage that spans from its pioneer beginnings to modern-day marvels. The city is home to diverse architectural styles that reflect its cultural and historical evolution.
Each building tells a unique story, offering a glimpse into the past and present of the vibrant community.
Why should you explore Provo’s architectural landscape? Provo’s buildings are not just structures but landmarks that connect residents and visitors to the city’s history and cultural development.
From historic sites to contemporary designs, Provo’s architecture is a testament to the creativity and resilience of its inhabitants.
1. Brigham Young University Museum of Art
The Brigham Young University Museum of Art, located in Provo, Utah, is known for its impressive architecture and extensive collections.
This four-story building covers more than 102,000 square feet and features ten exhibition galleries, an auditorium, and classrooms.
Opened in October 1993, it has become one of the best attended university-campus art museums in the United States.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of exhibits and free events throughout the year.
2. Provo City Center Temple
The Provo City Center Temple stands out as a symbol of resilience and beauty in Provo, Utah.
Originally the Provo Stake Tabernacle, it suffered extensive damage from a fire in December 2010.
Efforts to preserve its historic essence led to the temple being built from the remaining shell.
Opened in 2016, the design incorporates Gothic Revival elements, paying homage to its origins.
The temple’s construction was a collaborative effort between FFKR Architects and Jacobsen Construction.
It seamlessly blends historical architecture with modern functions, attracting visitors from all over. More details about its story can be found at FFKR Architects.
3. Provo Library at Academy Square
The Provo Library at Academy Square is a remarkable building in Provo, Utah.
Located at 550 N. University Ave, it occupies the historic Brigham Young Academy building.
Built in 1892 and designed by architect Don Carlos Young, the building served as home to Brigham Young Academy.
In 2001, after extensive renovations funded by a $16 million library bond, it was rededicated as the Provo Library.
Today, this library is a popular spot for residents of Provo and Orem, serving as both a community center and a historic landmark.
4. Utah Valley Convention Center
The Utah Valley Convention Center is a modern architectural marvel located in downtown Provo.
It features a glass facade and sustainable design elements that harmonize with the historic surroundings.
With over 48,000 square feet of leasable space, the center includes a 20,000-square-foot exhibit hall and an 18,000-square-foot ballroom.
Its design allows for future expansion with minimal disruption.
The center offers stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains and incorporates elements that reflect Utah’s natural beauty. This makes it a top choice for events and gatherings in the area.
5. Covey Center for the Arts
The Covey Center for the Arts is a key cultural hub in Provo, offering a diverse range of performances and events.
Built in 2007 and renovated in 2011, the center spans 42,000 square feet.
It hosts over 200 events annually, including performances by the Utah Metropolitan Ballet and the Utah Valley Symphony.
The Covey Center was named after Stephen R. Covey, who made a significant donation for its establishment.
Located at 425 W Center St, the center is a vibrant part of Provo’s arts scene.
6. Harris Fine Arts Center
The Harris Fine Arts Center (HFAC) was the heart of Brigham Young University’s College of Fine Arts and Communications.
Located in Provo, Utah, the center opened in 1964.
Architect William Pereira designed the HFAC in a modernist style. For over 50 years, it served as a space for artistic expression, shows, and learning.
In early 2023, the HFAC was demolished to make way for a new arts building on the same site. Despite its demolition, the HFAC remains an iconic part of Provo’s architectural history. More information is available here.
7. Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum
The Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum is located at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah.
This natural history museum features the fascinating collection of Wilmer W. Tanner, which includes a donated tiger from 1973. The museum is named after Monte Lafayette Bean, a Seattle businessman who funded its construction.
With exhibits focusing on the evolving planet, the museum offers webcasts, in-house programs, and outreach initiatives aligning with the Utah State Science Core Curriculum. Visit their site for more details.
8. Provo Tabernacle
The Provo Tabernacle is a historical landmark in Provo, Utah.
Built between 1882 and 1898, it served as a meeting place for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The architectural style of the Provo Tabernacle is Gothic Revival. It featured a high-pitched gabled roof, octagonal stair towers, and art glass windows.
In 2010, a fire severely damaged the building. Later, it was transformed into the Provo City Center Temple. The renovation preserved many original elements.
For more details on its design, visit the FFKR Architects page.
9. Harold B. Lee Library
The Harold B. Lee Library, located on the Brigham Young University campus in Provo, is a significant architectural structure.
The library features 98 miles of shelving and has a seating capacity of 4,600, which accommodates over 10,000 visitors daily.
Its history dates back to 1876, with its current building at J. Reuben Clark Library completed in 1961.
10. Franklin S. Harris Fine Arts Center
The Franklin S. Harris Fine Arts Center (HFAC) was a key landmark on Brigham Young University’s campus. It was named after BYU’s fourth president, Franklin S. Harris, who served from 1921 to 1945.
Built in 1964, the HFAC was designed by architect William Pereira. It was the main hub for the College of Fine Arts and Communications for nearly six decades.
In early 2023, the building was demolished to make way for a new arts facility on the same site, marking the end of an era for the historic HFAC.
Historical Significance
Provo, Utah, has a rich architectural history that reflects its development and the influence of notable architects. This evolution showcases a mix of styles from various periods, highlighting the shifts in design and construction techniques over time.
Evolution of Architecture in Provo
Provo’s architectural journey began in the mid-19th century.
Early settlers, primarily members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, prioritized functionality. They built simple adobe and log cabins, reflecting a utilitarian style.
As the city expanded, new styles emerged, particularly during the late 1800s. Iconic commercial buildings from this era are still evident in Provo’s landscape.
These buildings highlight craftsmanship and design trends from the past, such as Victorian and Gothic Revival styles.
The 20th century brought further changes. The rise of modern architectural styles introduced more varied materials and techniques.
This period also saw the incorporation of Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern influences, which marked a shift from older, more traditional designs.
Influential Architects
Several architects have left their mark on Provo’s skyline.
One of the most notable is Joseph Don Carlos Young, son of Brigham Young, who designed many buildings in Utah, including some in Provo.
Another influential figure is Henry Ives Cobb, whose work includes the Reed Smoot House, an excellent example of colonial revival architecture.
The CMA team also contributed significantly by designing new buildings to reflect Provo’s historical context, focusing on maintaining the area’s architectural integrity.
This approach helps blend modern constructions with the city’s historic charm.
Architectural Styles
Provo, Utah boasts a variety of architectural styles, reflecting its rich history and growth over the years. This section highlights two major influences: Gothic Revival and Modernist.
Gothic Revival
Gothic Revival architecture in Provo can be seen in several historic buildings. This style often includes pointed arches, detailed stonework, and steep gabled roofs.
A notable example in Provo is the Provo City Center Temple, which was restored after a major fire and showcases intricate Gothic details.
Materials commonly used in Gothic Revival structures are stone and brick, chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal.
Windows in these buildings are often adorned with elaborate tracery and stained glass, adding to the sacred and grand atmosphere. The pointed arch is a signature element, symbolizing the architectural devotion to Gothic traditions.
Modernist Influence
Modernist architecture emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and the use of modern materials such as steel and glass.
In Provo, this can be seen in several contemporary designs that focus on clean lines and minimal ornamentation.
Key features include flat roofs, horizontal lines, and large windows that offer natural light and views.
One of the prominent architects working in this style is Walker Home Design, known for their custom homes that balance modern aesthetics with economic building practices.
Their designs cater to the practical needs of families while maintaining a sleek, modern look.
These modernist buildings often blend with the natural surroundings, reflecting the Utah landscape, and prioritize eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies. This connection to nature and focus on sustainability is an important aspect of Modernist architecture today.