Though it was built in 2023, the home at 92 Bogard St. has many classic features like copper gutters, gas lanterns, and a door that opens onto a brick-paved alleyway.
Downtown Charleston appeals to residents and visitors for many reasons, but for those who admire historic homes, strolling the streets of the city reveals timeless details that continue to appeal to homeowners today. Whether you have lived your entire life in the Holy City, just relocated here or are visiting, Downtown Charleston is a special place to explore and enjoy because you never know what you are going to see.
"Unlike most cities, Charleston remains free of high-rises and modern overdevelopment, a rare gift made possible by early preservationists who knew the importance of maintaining our city's original character and integrity," says Marissa Castello, a real estate agent with Maison Real Estate in Charleston.
Castello says that a simple stroll through downtown Charleston feels like a step back in time.
"There are gas lanterns, cobblestone streets, iron gates that hide magical gardens, colorful paint and window boxes," she says.
Whether privately owned homes or historic homes that have been turned into museums, downtown Charleston provides plenty of opportunities to glimpse architectural details that have impressed guests for generations.
"Charleston's historic homes have been thoughtfully preserved thanks to the incredible efforts of many organizations such as The Preservation Society of Charleston and generations of locals dedicated to protecting the city's charm," said Castello.
Alton Brown, a broker and sales associate with Carriage Properties, suggests slowing down and appreciating what you see while walking around historic districts on the peninsula. Even he admits that he's missed some finer details after walking past certain buildings thousands of times.
"There are so many timeless details to Charleston that can be missed if you're rushing around or only staying for a quick weekend visit," says Brown. "Slow down and put the phone away. You can walk the streets of downtown Charleston for a lifetime at different times and seasons and always see overlooked features. For example, I passed the gate on State Street with a tobacco pipe spouting curls of smoke made of wrought iron many times before I noticed it."
Brown said there is a whole city's worth of details still to see.
"The views of the harbor that constantly change with the tides; the tourists looking with curious suspicion at the orange fruits of the loquat tree; the widow's walks on the rooftops of several taller homes," said Brown. "These are just a few details downtown in the Historic District."
Twenty-three years ago, Bambi Elstrom of Charleston Luxury Group said that a friend in Paris recommended Charleston to her. She was told that there were many timeless details about the area that Elstrom would love, such as the food scene, history and weather.
"Charleston is also one of the oldest cities in America and there are so many great stories to hear," said Elstrom. "And there's beautiful architecture. My friend thought I would miss my French life, which I do, but Charleston is perfectly charming."
While flowers and gardens adjust with the seasons, admiring the landscaping and ever-changing floral arrangements is part of the appeal of strolling through the streets of downtown.
"The beautiful gardens featuring brick pathways, fountains, azaleas, camellias and manicured boxwoods also define Charleston," said Leslie Turner, Broker-in-Charge, founder of Maison Real Estate in Charleston. "Many gardens are hidden gems, tucked behind ivy-covered brick walls and privacy gates. The flowering window boxes of Charleston do display hints of a homeowner's garden finesse for all to enjoy."