Savannah, Georgia is home to a historic architectural gem that has recently been at the center of a debate over its future. The old Chatham Academy at 208 Bull St., known simply as “208” by locals, is a striking example of architectural beauty, with its brick and granite facade, towering columns, and decorative masonry work. While surrounding buildings have been well-maintained, 208 has faced neglect and deteriorating conditions, including water damage and mold growth, prompting action from the Savannah-Chatham Board of Education.
After years of debate, the school board finally agreed to repurpose 208 into the Bull Street Center for Architecture and Design, a specialty education program focused on architecture, urban design, and historic preservation. The renovation project is estimated to cost at least $85 million and is expected to be completed by 2030.
However, hotelier Richard Kessler, a prominent figure in Savannah’s business community, has raised objections to the board’s decision. Kessler proposed buying the property at fair market value and investing an additional $130 million to transform it into a Smithsonian-quality museum. His plan also includes the construction of a boutique hotel and fine dining restaurant on the site to help fund the museum.
Kessler’s proposal was submitted to the school board in early 2024 but was not made public until after the board had secured funding for the renovation through an education special purpose local option sales tax vote. Despite concerns raised by Kessler and others, board members defend their decision-making process, citing the need to protect ongoing transactions and prevent unfair advantages.
As the debate between creating an education center versus a museum continues, the future of 208 Bull St. remains uncertain. Both options offer unique opportunities for the historic building, and the final decision will have a lasting impact on Savannah’s architectural landscape.
