Historic Savannah Foundation’s lecture series, “People, Places and Stories that Define Savannah,”  will feature lectures covering a wide range of speakers and topics. Each lecturer will give a presentation on a subject that falls within the realm of their expertise followed by a question-and-answer session.

photo of Professor Patricia West

Ellen Harris (Moderator), Shedrick Coleman, Neil Dawson, and Patrick Phelps

PANEL DISCUSSION: Designing the Next Layer of History: New Architecture in Savannah’s Historic Districts

April 16 | 6:00 PM

Designing new buildings in Savannah’s National Historic Landmark District requires architects to balance contemporary needs with the city’s historic character. Navigating both visual compatibility criteria and detailed design standards can present challenges, raising important questions about creativity, context, and regulation.

Moderated by Ellen Harris of Ethos Preservation, and featuring architects Shedrick Coleman (ShEDDarchitecture), Neil Dawson (LS3P), and Patrick Phelps (Hansen Architects), this panel will explore the opportunities and constraints of designing new construction in the Historic District, and consider whether the review process can evolve to produce stronger, more thoughtful buildings that contribute to Savannah’s architectural legacy.

This lecture will take place on Thursday, March 19 at the Murray C. Perlman and Wayne C. Spear Preservation Center, located at 323 E. Broughton Street. Doors open at 5:30 pm for a wine reception and the lecture begins at 6:00 pm. Admission is free for HSF members and $15 for non-members. Space is limited; both members and non-members may reserve their spot by clicking the button above. For more information about the lecture series, contact Kendall Graham at [email protected].

DON’T MISS OUR UPCOMING LECTURES & TOURS!

Mark your calendar and we hope to see you there!

Attendees are invited to a wine reception at 5:30 p.m. to meet & mingle with HSF members and staff. The discussion will start at 6 p.m.

We take a ‘lecture break’ in July and December.

 

 

MAY 21, 2026

Kim Trent

Revolving Funds and the National Preservation Projects Network

JUNE 18, 2026

Special Panel: Yamacraw Village

First Bryan Baptist Church

 

JULY 2026

SUMMER BREAK

See you again in August!

AUGUST 2026

To Be Announced

Check back soon for more details!