Oatland Island Wildlife Center Renovation

Originally constructed in 1927, Oatland Island Wildlife Center’s historic main building is thoughtfully restored and modernized to support its continued role in environmental education and wildlife care. The comprehensive renovation preserves the character of the stately brick structure while introducing classrooms, administrative offices, veterinary spaces, modern building systems, and improved accessibility to create a more functional facility for students, staff, animals, and visitors.

Location: Savannah, GA
Square Footage: 27,000
Awards: Historic Savannah Foundation, Preservation Award
Market Sectors: Healthcare & Life Sciences, Institutional & Faith-Based, Interiors
Attributes: Tenant Improvement, Historic Renovation, Award Winner, Adaptive Reuse

Oatland Island Wildlife Center, Historic Renovation, Institutional, Savannah, GA

A Storied Past, Thoughtfully Preserved

Originally built as a retirement home for the International Order of Railroad Conductors, the building later served the U.S. Public Health Service and Centers for Disease Control before becoming part of Oatland Island Wildlife Center. Extensive interior demolition, asbestos and lead paint abatement, and structural repairs prepare the building for its next chapter. Outside, replacement windows, restored brick and stucco, new roofing, and repaired architectural details revive the stately exterior, while the original grand stairway and historic finishes preserve the character within.

New Life Within Historic Walls

Moss-draped trees flank the main building, renovated to provide more functional space for the Center. Once used primarily for storage, the second floor now houses bright, comfortable offices for Center staff. The first floor welcomes students and visitors with four classrooms, two conference rooms, and flexible space for programs, presentations, and events. A new veterinary clinic provides dedicated examination, surgery, and recovery areas, complete with a viewing window that offers students a unique look into the care of the Center’s wildlife.

Modern Function, Historic Character

Behind the restored historic character, new mechanical and electrical systems bring the nearly century-old building up to modern standards. A new elevator enhances movement between floors, while five concrete ramps, new sidewalks, and paving significantly improve accessibility throughout the property. Together, these improvements create a more functional, welcoming environment that supports the Center’s operations while respecting the historic structure that makes Oatland Island so distinctive.

Oatland Island Wildlife Center, Historic Renovation, Institutional, Preservation Award, Savannah, GA

Preservation Through Partnership

Funded through ESPLOST, the project pairs thoughtful restoration with careful stewardship of available resources. Choate worked closely with local and state agencies to navigate historic preservation requirements, tax credit opportunities, and funding guidelines, helping maximize the project’s resources while maintaining the standards necessary to preserve this important piece of Savannah history.