The Art of the Charleston Craft

Words by Jen Barbiaz

American College of the Building Arts Building

Charleston is a city defined by its rich architectural history, and few places showcase that legacy like the American College of the Building Arts (ACBA). Founded in 2004 to train artisans in the traditional building arts, ACBA offers a hands-on liberal arts education that goes beyond textbooks. Students don’t just learn about history—they actively preserve, restore, and create architecturally significant structures, keeping Charleston’s historic charm alive for future generations.

Students can study everything from blacksmithing to carpentry to plastering. This combination of traditional craftsmanship and academic study makes the school a rare institution in the United States, one where artistry and preservation intersect. Visitors often remark at the level of skill and attention to detail that students bring to their work—skills that can be appreciated even by those unfamiliar with the technical side of construction.

American College of the Building Arts Workshop

For those exploring Charleston, ACBA also hosts events that are open to the public, including its Lecture Series and the annual Capstone Reception, offering a glimpse into student projects and the process of architectural preservation. Just a 10-minute drive from the American College of the Building Arts, the Pinch Hotel, housed in three buildings dating back to 1843, reflects the same spirit of restoration and preservation that ACBA champions. While wandering Charleston’s historic district, it’s easy to see how the city’s architecture and the artisans who maintain it create a living dialogue between past and present. For anyone interested in Charleston’s built environment—whether as a prospective student, architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler—ACBA offers a fascinating window into the art and craft of preserving history.