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Behind Charleston's most iconic wrought iron gates lies one of America's most extraordinary historic residences: the legendary Sword Gate House. Located on prestigious Legare Street in the heart of Charleston's coveted South of Broad neighborhood, this magnificent estate is a masterpiece of Federal-style architecture, layered with more than two centuries of history, timeless elegance, and architectural significance.Originally constructed in the early 1800s and expanded over generations, the residence is famed for its iconic sword-shaped wrought iron gates crafted by renowned Charleston ironworker Christopher Werner. Installed by British consul George Hopley in the mid-19th century, these extraordinary gates have become one of Charleston's most recognizable architectural symbols and gavthe estate its enduring name. Set behind towering masonry walls and lush gardens, this spectacular compound unfolds as a private world unto itself, where grand salons, elegant ballrooms, sweeping piazzas, and richly detailed interiors evoke the romance, grandeur, and sophistication of Charleston's golden age. Exquisite plasterwork, intricate period millwork, soaring ceilings, exposed brick, and centuries-old craftsmanship blend seamlessly with a meticulous, design-driven restoration that elevates the estate to an exceptional standard of modern luxury. Set on approximately .87 acres, one of the largest residential parcels in downtown Charleston, the estate offers an extraordinary sense of privacy and tranquility in the heart of the historic district. Enclosed by towering masonry walls and lush, mature landscaping, the grounds have been transformed into a series of beautifully designed outdoor living and entertaining spaces. Manicured gardens, elegant hardscapes, dramatic landscape lighting, and an integrated sound system complement a new heated and cooled swimming pool and spa. A striking linear water feature, anchored by a glass conservatory, creates a dramatic focal point between the main residence and the carriage house. An inviting garden dining area with brick wood-burning fireplace provides an intimate setting for outdoor entertaining, while three levels of gracious piazzas overlooking the gardens and a magnificent 200+ year old magnolia tree. The estate's remarkable privacy is enhanced by its substantial perimeter walls, gated entrances, and discreet off-street parking, including a rare two-car garage and generous additional parking with a long driveway off Tradd Street. Together, these features create a level of seclusion, security, and convenience seldom found in historic Charleston. The Sword Gate House has served many roles throughout Charleston's storied history, from private residence to girls' academy, inn, and cultural landmark. Its legendary gates have welcomed diplomats, prominent Charleston families, famous artists, musicians, actors, and literary figures. Today the estate remains one of the city's most celebrated and architecturally significant properties, embodying the history, mystique, timeless grandeur, beauty, and elegance that define luxury Charleston living. The current owners have undertaken an extraordinary renovation, meticulously reimagining the property while honoring its architectural heritage. Virtually every surface has been thoughtfully restored or enhanced, with an emphasis on exceptional craftsmanship, bespoke design, and the finest materials. Designer lighting, custom furnishings, exquisite stone, rare woods, luxurious textiles, tailored drapery, and carefully curated fixtures bring a refined contemporary sensibility to the historic interiors. The result is a residence of remarkable sophistication, one that retains its authentic historic character while offering functionality, curated luxury design, and effortless elegance expected of a world-class estate. Meticulously maintained and beautifully appointed, the Sword Gate House offers a rare opportunity to acquire of the most design-forward and important trophy properties in Charleston, and perhaps the southeast. Spanning 17,142 square feet in total, 32 Legare Street is thoughtfully configured as an expansive residential compound on almost one acre of high ground. The 14,136 sq. ft. main residence features a lovely collection of formal entertaining rooms, gracious family living spaces, and luxurious private accommodations. The showstopper in the main house is the spectacular ballroom, with soaring ceilings, elaborate moldings, fireplace with beautiful mantle, and exquisite historic millwork. An intimate formal dining room features a hand-painted wall mural and fireplace, while two large family rooms open directly onto wide piazzas, creating a seamless connection between the elegant interiors and surrounding gardens. A gorgeous new kitchen and informal dining area on the main level features custom cabinetry and built-ins, a fireplace, and direct piazza access, offering an inviting setting for everyday living and casual entertaining. Designed to accommodate both intimate family life and large-scale entertaining, the residence offers multiple distinct kitchen facilities: a beautifully appointed family kitchen, a substantial chef's and catering kitchen with abundant storage, and a small staff kitchen. The large carriage house guest suite also has a full kitchen. The main residence features eight bedrooms, nine full bathrooms, and two powder rooms. Remarkably, every bedroom at the property enjoys its own en suite bathroom, an exceptionally rare feature in a historic home. The sumptuous primary suite spans the entire southern side of the second floor, a private sanctuary of exceptional scale and refinement. The beautiful bedroom features a generous seating area, complemented by a private study/office, and an expansive boutique-style dressing room with custom cabinetry, lighting, and a bar. The luxurious primary bathroom is appointed with separate dual vanities, a soaking tub in front of the fireplace, large shower, and two water closets. The primary suite enjoys access to a private second floor piazza that overlooks the magnificent gardens and swimming pool, providing a peaceful retreat within the estate. The additional bedrooms are equally impressive, offering generous proportions, beautiful architectural details, and fireplaces. On the third floor, an expansive suite, currently used as a family room, has an ensuite bathroom and opens onto a fantastic piazza with sweeping views of the rooftops, steeples, and skyline of downtown Charleston. Other highlights of the main residence include a dramatic staircase with custom magnolia chandelier, stunning plaster ceiling medallions, triple piazzas, and multiple fireplaces. Additional amenities in the main house include a fitness room, large laundry room, numerous fireplaces, generous storage, and a small elevator connecting the two lower floors. Complementing the main residence is a beautifully restored two-story carriage house of approximately 2,376 square feet, distinguished by its dramatic urban bronze exterior. The rich, sophisticated color provides a striking architectural contrast to the main house and creates an elegant backdrop for the surrounding gardens and courtyard. Accessible through a private entrance from Tradd Street or directly from an interior courtyard, the carriage house offers exceptional flexibility for extended family, guests, or private accommodations. Its principal two-story guest suite features a dramatic living room with two large fireplaces, a bespoke jewel-box kitchen, and an inviting bedroom with exposed historic beams and private full bathroom with separate soaking tub and tiled shower. Two additional carriage house guest suites also feature en suite bathrooms and charming architectural details. A separate powder bath conveniently serves guests enjoying the gardens and outdoor entertaining areas. A spectacular linear fountain lies between the main house and carriage house, with a glass conservatory providing a fantastic focal point and offers a beautifully composed architectural connection between the main residence and the carriage house, part of the thoughtfully designed estate. An additional full bathroom in the garage/pool house further enhances the functionally of the outdoor spaces, while a separate gated driveway off Tradd Street provides parking for additional vehicles. Rarely does a property of such extraordinary provenance offer this combination of architectural significance, expansive grounds, uncompromising privacy, and sophisticated modern luxury. With its remarkable scale, meticulous restoration, beautifully designed gardens, and exceptional residential spaces, the Sword Gate House represents the pinnacle of Charleston luxury living. More than a distinguished residence, the Sword Gate House is an enduring Charleston landmark and is one of the most iconic private estates in the American South. For the discerning buyer seeking authenticity, architectural grandeur, privacy, security, prestige, and the rare convenience of a fully renovated, turn-key, luxurious historic estate, 32 Legare Street presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to acquire a trophy property of this caliber and provenance. Behind the city's most celebrated gates is an irreplaceable piece of American history, an unparalleled legacy property in Charleston: the legendary Sword Gate House.

11 Beds ⋅ 15.5 Baths ⋅ 26028651 MLS ⋅ South Of Broad SubDv. ⋅ Active Status

Behind Charleston's most iconic wrought iron gates lies one of America's most extraordinary historic residences: the legendary Sword Gate House. Located on prestigious Legare Street in the heart of Charleston's coveted South of Broad neighborhood, this magnificent estate is a masterpiece of Federal-style architecture, layered with more than two centuries of history, timeless elegance, and architectural significance.Originally constructed in the early 1800s and expanded over generations, the residence is famed for its iconic sword-shaped wrought iron gates crafted by renowned Charleston ironworker Christopher Werner. Installed by British consul George Hopley in the mid-19th century, these extraordinary gates have become one of Charleston's most recognizable architectural symbols and gavthe estate its enduring name. Set behind towering masonry walls and lush gardens, this spectacular compound unfolds as a private world unto itself, where grand salons, elegant ballrooms, sweeping piazzas, and richly detailed interiors evoke the romance, grandeur, and sophistication of Charleston's golden age. Exquisite plasterwork, intricate period millwork, soaring ceilings, exposed brick, and centuries-old craftsmanship blend seamlessly with a meticulous, design-driven restoration that elevates the estate to an exceptional standard of modern luxury. Set on approximately .87 acres, one of the largest residential parcels in downtown Charleston, the estate offers an extraordinary sense of privacy and tranquility in the heart of the historic district. Enclosed by towering masonry walls and lush, mature landscaping, the grounds have been transformed into a series of beautifully designed outdoor living and entertaining spaces. Manicured gardens, elegant hardscapes, dramatic landscape lighting, and an integrated sound system complement a new heated and cooled swimming pool and spa. A striking linear water feature, anchored by a glass conservatory, creates a dramatic focal point between the main residence and the carriage house. An inviting garden dining area with brick wood-burning fireplace provides an intimate setting for outdoor entertaining, while three levels of gracious piazzas overlooking the gardens and a magnificent 200+ year old magnolia tree. The estate's remarkable privacy is enhanced by its substantial perimeter walls, gated entrances, and discreet off-street parking, including a rare two-car garage and generous additional parking with a long driveway off Tradd Street. Together, these features create a level of seclusion, security, and convenience seldom found in historic Charleston. The Sword Gate House has served many roles throughout Charleston's storied history, from private residence to girls' academy, inn, and cultural landmark. Its legendary gates have welcomed diplomats, prominent Charleston families, famous artists, musicians, actors, and literary figures. Today the estate remains one of the city's most celebrated and architecturally significant properties, embodying the history, mystique, timeless grandeur, beauty, and elegance that define luxury Charleston living. The current owners have undertaken an extraordinary renovation, meticulously reimagining the property while honoring its architectural heritage. Virtually every surface has been thoughtfully restored or enhanced, with an emphasis on exceptional craftsmanship, bespoke design, and the finest materials. Designer lighting, custom furnishings, exquisite stone, rare woods, luxurious textiles, tailored drapery, and carefully curated fixtures bring a refined contemporary sensibility to the historic interiors. The result is a residence of remarkable sophistication, one that retains its authentic historic character while offering functionality, curated luxury design, and effortless elegance expected of a world-class estate. Meticulously maintained and beautifully appointed, the Sword Gate House offers a rare opportunity to acquire of the most design-forward and important trophy properties in Charleston, and perhaps the southeast. Spanning 17,142 square feet in total, 32 Legare Street is thoughtfully configured as an expansive residential compound on almost one acre of high ground. The 14,136 sq. ft. main residence features a lovely collection of formal entertaining rooms, gracious family living spaces, and luxurious private accommodations. The showstopper in the main house is the spectacular ballroom, with soaring ceilings, elaborate moldings, fireplace with beautiful mantle, and exquisite historic millwork. An intimate formal dining room features a hand-painted wall mural and fireplace, while two large family rooms open directly onto wide piazzas, creating a seamless connection between the elegant interiors and surrounding gardens. A gorgeous new kitchen and informal dining area on the main level features custom cabinetry and built-ins, a fireplace, and direct piazza access, offering an inviting setting for everyday living and casual entertaining. Designed to accommodate both intimate family life and large-scale entertaining, the residence offers multiple distinct kitchen facilities: a beautifully appointed family kitchen, a substantial chef's and catering kitchen with abundant storage, and a small staff kitchen. The large carriage house guest suite also has a full kitchen. The main residence features eight bedrooms, nine full bathrooms, and two powder rooms. Remarkably, every bedroom at the property enjoys its own en suite bathroom, an exceptionally rare feature in a historic home. The sumptuous primary suite spans the entire southern side of the second floor, a private sanctuary of exceptional scale and refinement. The beautiful bedroom features a generous seating area, complemented by a private study/office, and an expansive boutique-style dressing room with custom cabinetry, lighting, and a bar. The luxurious primary bathroom is appointed with separate dual vanities, a soaking tub in front of the fireplace, large shower, and two water closets. The primary suite enjoys access to a private second floor piazza that overlooks the magnificent gardens and swimming pool, providing a peaceful retreat within the estate. The additional bedrooms are equally impressive, offering generous proportions, beautiful architectural details, and fireplaces. On the third floor, an expansive suite, currently used as a family room, has an ensuite bathroom and opens onto a fantastic piazza with sweeping views of the rooftops, steeples, and skyline of downtown Charleston. Other highlights of the main residence include a dramatic staircase with custom magnolia chandelier, stunning plaster ceiling medallions, triple piazzas, and multiple fireplaces. Additional amenities in the main house include a fitness room, large laundry room, numerous fireplaces, generous storage, and a small elevator connecting the two lower floors. Complementing the main residence is a beautifully restored two-story carriage house of approximately 2,376 square feet, distinguished by its dramatic urban bronze exterior. The rich, sophisticated color provides a striking architectural contrast to the main house and creates an elegant backdrop for the surrounding gardens and courtyard. Accessible through a private entrance from Tradd Street or directly from an interior courtyard, the carriage house offers exceptional flexibility for extended family, guests, or private accommodations. Its principal two-story guest suite features a dramatic living room with two large fireplaces, a bespoke jewel-box kitchen, and an inviting bedroom with exposed historic beams and private full bathroom with separate soaking tub and tiled shower. Two additional carriage house guest suites also feature en suite bathrooms and charming architectural details. A separate powder bath conveniently serves guests enjoying the gardens and outdoor entertaining areas. A spectacular linear fountain lies between the main house and carriage house, with a glass conservatory providing a fantastic focal point and offers a beautifully composed architectural connection between the main residence and the carriage house, part of the thoughtfully designed estate. An additional full bathroom in the garage/pool house further enhances the functionally of the outdoor spaces, while a separate gated driveway off Tradd Street provides parking for additional vehicles. Rarely does a property of such extraordinary provenance offer this combination of architectural significance, expansive grounds, uncompromising privacy, and sophisticated modern luxury. With its remarkable scale, meticulous restoration, beautifully designed gardens, and exceptional residential spaces, the Sword Gate House represents the pinnacle of Charleston luxury living. More than a distinguished residence, the Sword Gate House is an enduring Charleston landmark and is one of the most iconic private estates in the American South. For the discerning buyer seeking authenticity, architectural grandeur, privacy, security, prestige, and the rare convenience of a fully renovated, turn-key, luxurious historic estate, 32 Legare Street presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to acquire a trophy property of this caliber and provenance. Behind the city's most celebrated gates is an irreplaceable piece of American history, an unparalleled legacy property in Charleston: the legendary Sword Gate House.

32 Legare Street, Charleston

$12,000,000

Situated in Charleston's historic South of Broad neighborhood, 118 & 120 S Battery is a distinguished Colonial-style residence offering generous living spaces, beautiful architectural details and an exceptional location just one block from White Point Garden and the Battery. Built in 1934 and set on a double lot spanning approximately 0.26 acres, the home offers four bedrooms, six full bathrooms and one half bathroom, along with views toward Charleston Harbor and a private outdoor setting rarely found in the heart of the city. A spacious four-stop elevator provides convenient access throughout the residence, adding another level of ease to the home.The main level is defined by gracious interiors, high ceilings and beautiful wood floors. A welcoming foyer opens to a spacious formal living room with a fireplace, while an adjoining family room provides an additional living space. The oversized kitchen offers abundant cabinetry and a breakfast area, while the formal dining room provides an elegant setting for hosting. Multiple piazzas extend the living spaces outdoors and add to the home's classic Charleston character. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite features beautiful wood floors, a fireplace and multiple windows overlooking the surrounding South of Broad setting. A generous walk-in closet and private bath complete the suite. Three additional bedrooms are also located on this level, and each bedroom is accompanied by an en-suite bath. The third floor provides a generous bonus room and full bath, offering additional flexibility for an office, media room or guest space. The renovated ground level adds another dimension to the home, offering a spacious guest suite and living area with its own eat-in kitchen. Bright finishes, shiplap walls and exposed brick details bring character to the space, while multiple living and gathering areas provide flexibility for extended stays, entertaining or everyday use. The ground level also includes a workshop and storage, with direct access to the courtyard and pool just beyond. This connection to the outdoor spaces makes the entire level especially well suited for relaxed poolside living and hosting guests. A detached two-car garage includes a full bath, while additional finished living space above the garage offers flexibility for guests, an office or studio. Mature landscaping surrounds the property, creating a private setting with ample space for relaxing and entertaining. With its substantial size, four-stop elevator, pool, two-car garage and exceptional South of Broad location, 118 & 120 S Battery presents a rare opportunity to enjoy Charleston living on a grand yet inviting scale. White Point Garden and the waterfront promenade are just moments away, while the city's renowned restaurants, historic landmarks, galleries and King Street shopping are all within easy reach.

5 Beds ⋅ 7.5 Baths ⋅ 26027555 MLS ⋅ South Of Broad SubDv. ⋅ Active Status

Situated in Charleston's historic South of Broad neighborhood, 118 & 120 S Battery is a distinguished Colonial-style residence offering generous living spaces, beautiful architectural details and an exceptional location just one block from White Point Garden and the Battery. Built in 1934 and set on a double lot spanning approximately 0.26 acres, the home offers four bedrooms, six full bathrooms and one half bathroom, along with views toward Charleston Harbor and a private outdoor setting rarely found in the heart of the city. A spacious four-stop elevator provides convenient access throughout the residence, adding another level of ease to the home.The main level is defined by gracious interiors, high ceilings and beautiful wood floors. A welcoming foyer opens to a spacious formal living room with a fireplace, while an adjoining family room provides an additional living space. The oversized kitchen offers abundant cabinetry and a breakfast area, while the formal dining room provides an elegant setting for hosting. Multiple piazzas extend the living spaces outdoors and add to the home's classic Charleston character. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite features beautiful wood floors, a fireplace and multiple windows overlooking the surrounding South of Broad setting. A generous walk-in closet and private bath complete the suite. Three additional bedrooms are also located on this level, and each bedroom is accompanied by an en-suite bath. The third floor provides a generous bonus room and full bath, offering additional flexibility for an office, media room or guest space. The renovated ground level adds another dimension to the home, offering a spacious guest suite and living area with its own eat-in kitchen. Bright finishes, shiplap walls and exposed brick details bring character to the space, while multiple living and gathering areas provide flexibility for extended stays, entertaining or everyday use. The ground level also includes a workshop and storage, with direct access to the courtyard and pool just beyond. This connection to the outdoor spaces makes the entire level especially well suited for relaxed poolside living and hosting guests. A detached two-car garage includes a full bath, while additional finished living space above the garage offers flexibility for guests, an office or studio. Mature landscaping surrounds the property, creating a private setting with ample space for relaxing and entertaining. With its substantial size, four-stop elevator, pool, two-car garage and exceptional South of Broad location, 118 & 120 S Battery presents a rare opportunity to enjoy Charleston living on a grand yet inviting scale. White Point Garden and the waterfront promenade are just moments away, while the city's renowned restaurants, historic landmarks, galleries and King Street shopping are all within easy reach.

118 & 120 S Battery, Charleston

$9,900,000

On one of the most beautiful streets in historic downtown Charleston, behind garden walls and beneath the shade of live oaks, stands the Thomas Rose House, an extraordinary Georgian residence built in 1735 when Charles Town was still a young Colonial port. For nearly 300 years, this remarkable home has witnessed the evolution of the Holy City--surviving devastating fires, wars, earthquakes, and storms--while retaining its elegant architecture and inimitable craftsmanship. Today, following a meticulous restoration that seamlessly blends historic integrity with modern luxury, this South of Broad estate offers something almost impossible to replicate: a fully livable 18th-century masterpiece set within expansive gardens in the heart of America's most beautifully preserved historic city.The property occupies Lot 61 of the original Grand Modell of Charles Town, granted in 1680 to Elizabeth Willis. By 1701, it had passed to the wealthy Elliott family. Thomas Eliott bequeathed the property to his daughter Beuler, who married Thomas Rose in 1733. Shortly thereafter, Rose commissioned the distinguished residence that still bears his name. The elegant Georgian merchant house was intended to reflect the fashionable architecture of England's port cities. Constructed of brick and oyster-shell plaster, the two-and-a-half-story structure is 5 bays wide with a hipped roof punctuated by dormers and a spectacular full-width drawing room that survives today in all its original grandeur. Around 1790, the iconic double piazzas were added and the entrance moved from the center of Church Street to the south facade to conform to the Charleston single house style that was popular at the time. The piazza door is noteworthy for its columned surround topped by a fanlight and triangular pediment. Remarkably, the interior of the home retains many of its original 18th-century architectural features, preserved in museum-quality fashion. Visitors enter into a gracious reception room and adjoining office. Cypress paneled walls, fireplace surrounds, heart pine floors, high ceilings, deep shuttered windows, and architectural niches immediately showcase the home's extraordinary craftsmanship. A series of arched doors and transoms guide the flow of light throughout the house. Past the reception room, the dining room exhibits a similar level of formality. The stair hall is paneled in black walnut with a mahogany railing and finely detailed stair brackets that reflect the artistry of its builders. Upstairs, the grand drawing room spans the entire width of the building--believed to be the earliest surviving example of this layout in Charleston. Its delicate Adams-style mantel dates to the early 19th century. A jib door beneath the frontmost window allows access to the second-story piazza and Lowcountry breezes. Despite its 1735 origins, the house has been thoughtfully adapted for modern living. Discreet updates include an elevator, modern alarm system, and keyless entry integrated along antique brass hardware. A powder room off the stair hall and other carefully placed conveniences support everyday living without compromising the home's architectural authenticity. In 1942, owner and architect Henry P. Staats built the hyphen that connects the current kitchen and primary bath above to the previously detached kitchen and laundry outbuilding. The modern chef's kitchen features custom cabinetry, a La Cornue gas range (with 6 Delft tiles rescued from the drawing room fireplace restoration placed in the backsplash above), and integrated Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer. A butler's pantry with bar, wine cooler, and Bosch integrated dishwasher supports effortless entertaining. Just beyond, a screened porch dining room allows meals to be enjoyed outside year-round. Adjacent to the kitchen, the original working kitchen has been transformed into a comfortable family room. The original kitchen hearth with beehive oven and herringbone brick floor serve as dramatic focal points. The mirror above the hearth cleverly conceals a television, blending the latest in modern tech seamlessly into its historic surroundings. The original laundry room continues to be used for that purpose. Its fireplace, then used to boil water for washing clothes and linens, is now joined by high-tech machines in another juxtaposition of technologies. The luxurious primary suite comprises the remainder of the second floor and can be separated from the entertaining areas of the house for privacy. A bedroom window opens to the piazza through a jib door, offering views of the formal parterre garden framed by an arcade of arches. The primary bath includes dual sinks, a freestanding soaking tub, a separate water closet with sink, and a massive marble shower room with multiple shower heads for a spa-like experience. The adjoining dressing room feels more like a private boutique than a traditional closet. Down the hall, a flexible room-sized closet could easily serve as a sitting room, nursery, dressing room, or private home office. Third floor adds 3 dormer bedrooms and a full bath. The bedrooms each have built-in closets and drawers. Two also feature built-in desks, ideal for school-aged children. Guest lodging is thoughtfully arranged to provide both comfort and privacy. The original carriage house has been transformed into a suite with sitting, dining, and sleeping areas, along with a breakfast bar and a full bath. The carriage doors are preserved as large windows. Above is a studio apartment with its own exterior entrance and private walled courtyard. This residence includes a full kitchenette and stacked laundry, along with a bedroom and full bath. A balcony overlooking the gardens provides the perfect place for al fresco dining. The grounds of the Thomas Rose House are as significant as the residence itself. The formal gardens were designed by renowned landscape architect Loutrel Briggs in 1954. A series of outdoor rooms provide both beauty and privacy, enclosed by high stucco and brick walls and shaded by mature live oaks. The hardscape and plantings were updated in 2019-20 by Sheila Wertimer. Most recently, Glen Gardner reestablished the parterre garden surrounding an armillary sphere--a landscape element that predates the Briggs layout. Altogether, the gardens of 59 Church Street have been curated by a virtual "Who's Who" of Charleston landscape design. A heated and cooled swimming pool and spa, hidden terraced garden, and garden house (not included in the square footage) create multiple opportunities for entertaining and retreat. A large parking court behind an automatic mahogany gate offers abundant off-street parking. Steeped in history. Immersed in a sense of time and place. For the next owner, the Thomas Rose House offers something far more meaningful than a remarkable home: the opportunity to add your name to the story of one of Charleston's most important architectural treasures. Three centuries of history. One extraordinary opportunity. Your legacy awaits...

6 Beds ⋅ 9.5 Baths ⋅ 26010900 MLS ⋅ South Of Broad SubDv. ⋅ Active Status

On one of the most beautiful streets in historic downtown Charleston, behind garden walls and beneath the shade of live oaks, stands the Thomas Rose House, an extraordinary Georgian residence built in 1735 when Charles Town was still a young Colonial port. For nearly 300 years, this remarkable home has witnessed the evolution of the Holy City--surviving devastating fires, wars, earthquakes, and storms--while retaining its elegant architecture and inimitable craftsmanship. Today, following a meticulous restoration that seamlessly blends historic integrity with modern luxury, this South of Broad estate offers something almost impossible to replicate: a fully livable 18th-century masterpiece set within expansive gardens in the heart of America's most beautifully preserved historic city.The property occupies Lot 61 of the original Grand Modell of Charles Town, granted in 1680 to Elizabeth Willis. By 1701, it had passed to the wealthy Elliott family. Thomas Eliott bequeathed the property to his daughter Beuler, who married Thomas Rose in 1733. Shortly thereafter, Rose commissioned the distinguished residence that still bears his name. The elegant Georgian merchant house was intended to reflect the fashionable architecture of England's port cities. Constructed of brick and oyster-shell plaster, the two-and-a-half-story structure is 5 bays wide with a hipped roof punctuated by dormers and a spectacular full-width drawing room that survives today in all its original grandeur. Around 1790, the iconic double piazzas were added and the entrance moved from the center of Church Street to the south facade to conform to the Charleston single house style that was popular at the time. The piazza door is noteworthy for its columned surround topped by a fanlight and triangular pediment. Remarkably, the interior of the home retains many of its original 18th-century architectural features, preserved in museum-quality fashion. Visitors enter into a gracious reception room and adjoining office. Cypress paneled walls, fireplace surrounds, heart pine floors, high ceilings, deep shuttered windows, and architectural niches immediately showcase the home's extraordinary craftsmanship. A series of arched doors and transoms guide the flow of light throughout the house. Past the reception room, the dining room exhibits a similar level of formality. The stair hall is paneled in black walnut with a mahogany railing and finely detailed stair brackets that reflect the artistry of its builders. Upstairs, the grand drawing room spans the entire width of the building--believed to be the earliest surviving example of this layout in Charleston. Its delicate Adams-style mantel dates to the early 19th century. A jib door beneath the frontmost window allows access to the second-story piazza and Lowcountry breezes. Despite its 1735 origins, the house has been thoughtfully adapted for modern living. Discreet updates include an elevator, modern alarm system, and keyless entry integrated along antique brass hardware. A powder room off the stair hall and other carefully placed conveniences support everyday living without compromising the home's architectural authenticity. In 1942, owner and architect Henry P. Staats built the hyphen that connects the current kitchen and primary bath above to the previously detached kitchen and laundry outbuilding. The modern chef's kitchen features custom cabinetry, a La Cornue gas range (with 6 Delft tiles rescued from the drawing room fireplace restoration placed in the backsplash above), and integrated Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer. A butler's pantry with bar, wine cooler, and Bosch integrated dishwasher supports effortless entertaining. Just beyond, a screened porch dining room allows meals to be enjoyed outside year-round. Adjacent to the kitchen, the original working kitchen has been transformed into a comfortable family room. The original kitchen hearth with beehive oven and herringbone brick floor serve as dramatic focal points. The mirror above the hearth cleverly conceals a television, blending the latest in modern tech seamlessly into its historic surroundings. The original laundry room continues to be used for that purpose. Its fireplace, then used to boil water for washing clothes and linens, is now joined by high-tech machines in another juxtaposition of technologies. The luxurious primary suite comprises the remainder of the second floor and can be separated from the entertaining areas of the house for privacy. A bedroom window opens to the piazza through a jib door, offering views of the formal parterre garden framed by an arcade of arches. The primary bath includes dual sinks, a freestanding soaking tub, a separate water closet with sink, and a massive marble shower room with multiple shower heads for a spa-like experience. The adjoining dressing room feels more like a private boutique than a traditional closet. Down the hall, a flexible room-sized closet could easily serve as a sitting room, nursery, dressing room, or private home office. Third floor adds 3 dormer bedrooms and a full bath. The bedrooms each have built-in closets and drawers. Two also feature built-in desks, ideal for school-aged children. Guest lodging is thoughtfully arranged to provide both comfort and privacy. The original carriage house has been transformed into a suite with sitting, dining, and sleeping areas, along with a breakfast bar and a full bath. The carriage doors are preserved as large windows. Above is a studio apartment with its own exterior entrance and private walled courtyard. This residence includes a full kitchenette and stacked laundry, along with a bedroom and full bath. A balcony overlooking the gardens provides the perfect place for al fresco dining. The grounds of the Thomas Rose House are as significant as the residence itself. The formal gardens were designed by renowned landscape architect Loutrel Briggs in 1954. A series of outdoor rooms provide both beauty and privacy, enclosed by high stucco and brick walls and shaded by mature live oaks. The hardscape and plantings were updated in 2019-20 by Sheila Wertimer. Most recently, Glen Gardner reestablished the parterre garden surrounding an armillary sphere--a landscape element that predates the Briggs layout. Altogether, the gardens of 59 Church Street have been curated by a virtual "Who's Who" of Charleston landscape design. A heated and cooled swimming pool and spa, hidden terraced garden, and garden house (not included in the square footage) create multiple opportunities for entertaining and retreat. A large parking court behind an automatic mahogany gate offers abundant off-street parking. Steeped in history. Immersed in a sense of time and place. For the next owner, the Thomas Rose House offers something far more meaningful than a remarkable home: the opportunity to add your name to the story of one of Charleston's most important architectural treasures. Three centuries of history. One extraordinary opportunity. Your legacy awaits...

59 Church Street, Charleston

$10,950,000

Welcome to the Captain John Morrison House at 125 Tradd Street. Circa 1805, this rare, four-window-wide Charleston Single-style residence has been extensively renovated both inside and out. The interior showcases a refined blend of luxurious modern finishes and preserved historic architectural details throughout. The first floor features a grand living room, an elegant dining room, a well-appointed kitchen, and a spacious family room located in the attached kitchen house, seamlessly opening to the garden for effortless indoor-outdoor living. Upstairs, the second floor hosts a beautifully finished primary suite along with a stunning drawing room overlooking the charm of historic Tradd Street. The third floor includes three additional bedrooms and two thoughtfully remodeled bathrooms.The second level of the kitchen house offers a private guest suite with sweeping views of the manicured grounds. Exterior highlights include triple-tiered piazzas that provide abundant outdoor living space, a gated entrance, and a deep, reimagined garden offering total privacy, complete with a swimming pool and pool house (contains an additional 266 square feet of conditioned space not included in the overall square footage). Featuring distinctive details and top-tier finishes throughout, 125 Tradd Street is a truly exceptional property located in the heart of Charleston's prestigious South of Broad neighborhood.

5 Beds ⋅ 5.5 Baths ⋅ 26006932 MLS ⋅ South Of Broad SubDv. ⋅ Active Status

Welcome to the Captain John Morrison House at 125 Tradd Street. Circa 1805, this rare, four-window-wide Charleston Single-style residence has been extensively renovated both inside and out. The interior showcases a refined blend of luxurious modern finishes and preserved historic architectural details throughout. The first floor features a grand living room, an elegant dining room, a well-appointed kitchen, and a spacious family room located in the attached kitchen house, seamlessly opening to the garden for effortless indoor-outdoor living. Upstairs, the second floor hosts a beautifully finished primary suite along with a stunning drawing room overlooking the charm of historic Tradd Street. The third floor includes three additional bedrooms and two thoughtfully remodeled bathrooms.The second level of the kitchen house offers a private guest suite with sweeping views of the manicured grounds. Exterior highlights include triple-tiered piazzas that provide abundant outdoor living space, a gated entrance, and a deep, reimagined garden offering total privacy, complete with a swimming pool and pool house (contains an additional 266 square feet of conditioned space not included in the overall square footage). Featuring distinctive details and top-tier finishes throughout, 125 Tradd Street is a truly exceptional property located in the heart of Charleston's prestigious South of Broad neighborhood.

125 Tradd Street, Charleston

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