In 1923 while originally built as meeting places for Freemasons, the architectural designs of most Masonic lodges are often repurposed for a variety of public and commercial uses. The style can be adapted for new construction or renovation projects, particularly for buildings intended as landmarks or gathering spaces. Most Common uses for repurposed Masonic lodge buildings: Performance venues: Larger Masonic temples like Whiting Masonic Lodge 613 contains an auditoriums or concert halls with high ceilings and elaborate details, 12'x12' Art Deco Stained Lead Glass SKYLIGHT making them ideal for conversion into theaters, music venues, and event spaces. Many historic Masonic buildings were designed with commercial space on the ground floor and lodge rooms on the upper floors. This classic multi-use design is easily adapted for retail stores, restaurants, or office suites. Many are converted to Museums and art galleries: The rich history and architectural detail of Masonic temples make them suitable for housing museums, historical exhibits, or art galleries and even libraries or reading rooms. Event Venues'- Masonic lodges serve as community hubs and gathering places. A building with a banquet hall and commercial kitchen can be repurposed as a wedding venue, conference center, or general community center. This is A Mixed-use landmarks: many grand Masonic buildings have been converted into mixed-use landmarks, featuring a blend of offices, retail shops, and public event spaces. The architectural style of Masonic lodges is not standardized but often features classical, neoclassical, or revivalist influences, with an emphasis on symbolism. Symbolic motifs: Masonic buildings often incorporate symbols like the Square and Compasses, the All-Seeing Eye, and architectural orders (Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian).
