In the beginning of 2002, construction began for the temple, with a design goal of simple elegance with a “soft†form, according to the architect, Allen Erekson of Lloyd E. Platt and Associates. It was to be classic but modern with a single spire. The goal was achieved by choosing stone that was monolithic and elegant.
Empress White granite, supplied by Bestview International Co. of Empress, IL, was the stone of choice for many reasons. “It met the ASTM requirements and the criteria of the client, as well as being economically justified and readily available,†said Erekson. The clients looked at numerous stones before choosing this particular white granite. Other stones that were considered were light in color as well, but the Empress White had all the characteristics that the client wanted, according to the architect.