Revitalization of the Emma C. Lee House in Savannah

News Summary

Shelby and Braeden Scally have transformed the neglected Emma C. Lee House in Savannah’s Victorian District into a historically significant residence. Despite facing challenges such as extensive renovations, strict zoning regulations, and managing full-time jobs, their dedication earned them a Historic Savannah Foundation Preservation Award. Originally built in the early 20th century, the home showcases a unique hand-carved staircase and modern additions while preserving its original charm. The couple’s commitment to historic preservation allows future generations to appreciate Savannah’s rich heritage.

Savannah – In a notable example of restoration and historic preservation, Shelby and Braeden Scally have successfully transformed a once-dilapidated home in Savannah’s Victorian District into the award-winning Emma C. Lee House. The couple purchased the property in 2023, having noted its long-standing neglect and damage from a fire and fallen trees. Despite these challenges, their vision for revitalizing the home has received accolades, including a Historic Savannah Foundation Preservation Award.

The house, which had been unoccupied since 1988, featured significant deterioration that necessitated substantial renovations. During their initial walkthrough, Shelby Scally was particularly captivated by a distinctive hand-carved staircase, which ultimately served as a key factor in their decision to purchase the property. The uniqueness of the staircase, along with its finger-hold indents, exemplifies a level of craftsmanship that is rare in modern constructions, underscoring the house’s potential as a historically significant asset.

As the couple navigated the complexities of home renovation, they were managing full-time corporate jobs while simultaneously overseeing their design company, Scally Design + Construct. At the time of the home purchase, they had just moved into a renovated property in Baldwin Park and were preparing to flip another house in Oakdale. The purchase of the dilapidated Savannah home coincided with the Oakdale renovation, resulting in an ambitious simultaneous renovation project for the couple.

The restoration of the Emma C. Lee House took longer than anticipated, lasting two years due to various complications, including Shelby’s pregnancy. Throughout this time, the couple faced the challenges of adhering to strict zoning and historical preservation regulations, which necessitated the involvement of the local consulting group Ethos Preservation. Their expert report revealed that the home was originally built between 1912 and 1913, highlighting its historical significance in Savannah despite being a relatively modern structure.

The original owner of the house, a woman who purchased it in 1915, inspired the couple to name the residence the Emma C. Lee House. The historical context of the property extended further, as the original lot included a carriage house, which influenced the Chatham County-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission’s decision to allow the construction of a new carriage house during the renovation process.

The couple envisioned both a new carriage house and a significant addition to the main home. Their plans aimed for a clear visual distinction between the old and the new, which was a focus during the design and approval process. After two rounds of revisions and gaining approval from the Metropolitan Planning Commission, the necessary construction permits were obtained in the summer of 2023. Renovation commenced with the removal of rotting materials and the shoring up of the house’s foundation, followed by the framing phase that began in October 2023.

The completed two-story addition features three new bedrooms, a bathroom, and a family room, while the newly constructed carriage house includes a two-car garage on the first floor and an apartment on the second. To further distinguish the historical from the modern, the original home was painted white, whereas the addition and carriage house were painted gray.

Interior design elements preserved the home’s original charm, including the restoration of original moldings and incorporating walnut cabinetry in the kitchen. Rounded edges and features, like a curved ceiling above the staircase, were designed to create a softer overall aesthetic.

Initially planning to move into the Emma C. Lee House post-renovation, the couple ultimately decided to sell the property for financial reasons. The home sold in January 2025 after five weeks on the market, fully furnished and staged by Set The Stage.

The couple’s commitment to preserving the legacy of historic homes reflects an understanding of their importance for future generations. Through their efforts, the Scallys have successfully revived a piece of Savannah’s history while also addressing contemporary living needs.

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Additional Resources

• Savannah Now: Historic Savannah Home Restoration
• WJCL: Forsyth Park Fountain Restoration
• WTOC: Savannah Buildings Awards
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Historic Preservation
• Savannah Business Journal: Preservation Award Winners