Construction in a Growing City
Savannah is experiencing one of the most active construction periods in its history. The expansion of the Port of Savannah, the arrival of major manufacturers such as Hyundai's electric vehicle plant in Bryan County, and steady population growth have fueled demand for warehouses, distribution centers, hotels, healthcare facilities, schools, and housing. At the same time, the city's historic neighborhoods require careful restoration and renovation that respects architectural heritage.
Choosing the right general contractor is essential for delivering projects on time, on budget, and to a high standard of quality. Savannah's contractors range from large regional firms handling complex commercial projects to specialized builders focused on historic preservation and custom homes. Here are ten of the best.
1. J.T. Turner Construction
J.T. Turner Construction is a Savannah-based general contractor with decades of experience in commercial, healthcare, education, and hospitality projects. Its local roots and deep understanding of the region's building environment have made it a trusted partner for many public and private clients. The firm is known for collaborative project management and strong relationships with local subcontractors.
2. Choate Construction
Choate Construction is a respected Southeastern builder with an office serving Savannah. The company works on corporate offices, multifamily housing, healthcare facilities, industrial projects, and higher education buildings. Choate is recognized for its focus on safety, quality, and client service, and it has earned many industry awards.
3. Brasfield and Gorrie
Brasfield and Gorrie is one of the largest privately held construction firms in the country, with a strong presence in Georgia. The company delivers complex projects in healthcare, commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors. Its expertise with large, technically demanding buildings, such as hospitals and research facilities, makes it a leading choice for major developments.
4. Robins and Morton
Robins and Morton is known for its expertise in healthcare construction, hospitality, and commercial buildings across the Southeast. The firm has experience delivering hospital expansions, medical office buildings, and hotels. Its emphasis on planning, virtual design, and construction technology helps reduce risk on complex projects.
5. Garbutt Construction
Garbutt Construction is a Georgia-based general contractor serving coastal Georgia and beyond. The company builds educational facilities, municipal buildings, healthcare projects, and commercial spaces. Garbutt is known for its commitment to community-focused projects and its experience with public sector clients.
6. Hardin Construction
Hardin Construction is a Georgia builder with a long history in commercial, hospitality, and mixed-use projects. The firm has contributed to developments throughout the state and brings strong capabilities in hotel construction, which is especially relevant in tourism-driven Savannah. Hardin combines large-project experience with attention to detail.
7. Industrial Design-Build Firms in the Port Corridor
The rapid growth of logistics and manufacturing around Savannah has attracted specialized industrial design-build contractors. These firms construct massive distribution centers, cold storage facilities, and manufacturing plants in Pooler, Port Wentworth, Rincon, and Bryan County. Design-build delivery allows faster schedules by combining design and construction under one contract, which is highly valuable when businesses need facilities quickly.
8. Historic Preservation Contractors
Savannah's National Historic Landmark District contains hundreds of historic buildings that require specialized restoration skills. Historic preservation contractors understand traditional materials such as Savannah gray brick, tabby, cast iron, and heart pine, and they work closely with the city's Historic District Board of Review and preservation standards. These builders help property owners preserve Savannah's architectural character while modernizing interiors for contemporary living.
9. Custom Home Builders
Custom home builders in the Savannah area construct high-quality residences in communities such as Richmond Hill, Skidaway Island, Isle of Hope, Wilmington Island, and new developments in Pooler and Effingham County. The best builders guide clients through design, material selection, and permitting, while incorporating features suited to the coastal climate, such as elevated foundations, hurricane-rated windows, and energy-efficient systems.
10. Residential Remodeling Contractors
Remodeling contractors help Savannah homeowners renovate kitchens, bathrooms, additions, porches, and outdoor living spaces. Many specialize in updating older homes in neighborhoods like Ardsley Park, Midtown, and Thunderbolt, where aging systems need modernization. Experienced remodelers manage permits, coordinate trades, and minimize disruption to daily life.
How to Choose a General Contractor
Verify that the contractor holds the appropriate Georgia contractor license and carries adequate liability and workers' compensation insurance. Review portfolios of similar projects and ask for references from past clients. Request detailed written bids and compare them carefully, looking beyond price to scope, schedule, and quality of materials. A clear contract should include payment schedules, change order procedures, warranties, and timelines. For historic properties, choose a contractor with proven preservation experience.
Construction Trends in Savannah
Industrial construction remains a dominant force, driven by the port and new manufacturing investments. Resilient building practices are gaining importance due to coastal flooding, hurricanes, and rising sea levels, leading to elevated structures, stronger roofing systems, and improved drainage design. Sustainable construction, including energy-efficient systems and green building certifications, continues to grow. Contractors are also adopting technology such as building information modeling, drones, and digital project management tools to improve efficiency.
Tips for Property Owners
Plan for Savannah's climate by choosing moisture-resistant materials and designs that manage heat and humidity. Understand flood zone requirements, which can affect foundation height and insurance costs. Allow extra time for permitting and design review, especially in historic districts. Maintain regular communication with your contractor and document all changes in writing. Budget for contingencies, as older buildings often reveal hidden issues once work begins.
Conclusion
Savannah's construction boom has attracted a strong community of general contractors. Established firms such as J.T. Turner Construction, Choate Construction, Brasfield and Gorrie, Robins and Morton, Garbutt Construction, and Hardin Construction lead major commercial and institutional projects. Industrial design-build firms, historic preservation specialists, custom home builders, and residential remodelers serve the full range of the city's building needs. By choosing an experienced, licensed, and communicative contractor, property owners can bring their projects to life in one of the South's most beautiful cities.