Scottish Rite Temple
An iconic fixture in Savannah’s skyline for over a century, the Scottish Rite Temple was designed by noted architect Hyman Witcover and constructed between 1913 and 1923. This six-story marble, brick, and terra cotta structure, originally built for Masonic organizations, was acquired by the Savannah College of Art and Design in 2019. In a remarkable demonstration of preservation craftsmanship, a meticulous three-phase exterior restoration was undertaken. Skilled artisans stabilized and cataloged façade elements, hand-cleaned materials, and repaired or replaced deteriorated terra cotta with precision. Structural repairs addressed long-standing water infiltration and steel deterioration, ensuring the building’s stability. All exterior doors and windows were restored to their original appearance and functionality. Every aspect of the project—from repointing masonry to matching materials in texture and design—was guided by a deep respect for historic integrity, celebrating traditional trades while securing the building’s future.
Excellence in Preservation Awards recognize the appropriate preservation of historic resources and creative interpretations of historic sites.
