The other week, I attended the Southern C Summit in Charleston, South Carolina, and I am still experiencing Charleston withdrawal symptoms. I had never visited The Holy City before, although it had always been on my bucket list, and I must say, my expectations were exceeded. I hesitate to say this, but I love it almost as much as I love Palm Beach, which is one of my favorite places on earth… I would LOVE to live in Charleston!
Charleston is known for its rich history, well-preserved architecture, world-class restaurants, genteel residents, Southern hospitality, and charm. Once named “the most polite and hospital city in America” by Southern Living magazine, Charleston is a worldly, sophisticated city that vibrantly mixes past and present. Time stands still as you stroll along the avenues lined with antebellum mansions, “Charleston Singles,” lush private gardens, and historic churches, while horse drawn carriages pass by with tourists.
While I was busy falling in love with Charleston, I was also having a delightful time at the Southern C Summit – a collaborative event for bloggers, media, entrepreneurs, and designers, which I highly recommend. We had some amazing guest speakers, including Erin Shaw Street, senior editor of Southern Living, Katie Armour, co-founder and editorial director for Matchbook magazine, Caitlin Moran, editorial director of Glitter Guide, Jamie Meares of Furbish Studio, Holly Phillips, interior designer and owner of The English Room, and Hanna Seabrook, Gadabout and creative director at Southern Proper. I will be blogging more about some of the lovely and talented ladies I met at the Summit. Stay tuned!
But now I must admit my guilty pleasure… I am secretly obsessed with the new Bravo “reality” show Southern Charm. Actually, let me clarify… I am obsessed with Patricia Altschul, the breakthrough star of the show, and her circa 1850s Roman-Revival mansion, which is the shiniest star of all. Last week, Joni from Cote de Texas provided a comprehensive tour of this home. She did an exceptional job with this post, and I spent an inordinate amount of time pouring over every single detail. BTW, Joni also profiled Thomas Ravenel‘s 17th century town home, located South of Broad, and his plantation located in Edisto Island, which dates back to the 1700s…. wow!!
Speaking of Charleston’s antebellum mansions… I have also been following Carolyne Roehm‘s journey on her blog as she painstakingly restores her 1836 Greek Revival manse. A progress report was featured in the May/June issue of Departures magazine, and on the fabulous blog of Mark D. Sikes.
Charleston absolutely mesmerized me with it’s exquisitely preserved historic gems, and apparently I’m not alone… It is quickly becoming a popular destination for many “from off'” (i.e. not from Charleston) who are considering a second or third home, according to the New York Social Diary.
So let’s take a look at the Charleston MLS, a candy store for this architectural preservation enthusiast… You too can make your Gone With the Wind fantasies come true! Below is a sampling of Charleston’s finest homes available for sale, all complete with rich histories that add to their character and enhance their charm… I am in awe of the elegant architectural elements that have stood the test of time. I’ll start with the pink ones first, because Charleston loves its pink homes and buildings almost as much as Palm Beach, which I wrote about here.
And finally, Southern Charm cast member Jenna King’s (haunted!) 1838 Charleston single, located at 89 Ashley Avenue is for sale. Click here to view a tour with Jenna herself!

Loved the house tour, Andrea, and that you started it with the pinks. I had a wonderful trip down to Charleston last spring and was hoping to making it to the Summit. Alas it didn’t happen, but the posse is looking for an excuse to take a road trip. Maybe once my baby is often to college in the fall . . . .
What a darling post! You made me fall in love all over again with Charleston! Glad you came and glad we got to meet!
Oh wow, I am in awe!
I have always wanted to visit!
I think it is going to have to be in the next year!
Amazing post!
Thank you!!!
I'm hooked on everything Charelston! One of your most enjoyable posts yet. The charm of this city, along with its history, and people make it like no other. Beautifully written post, and once again I find you educating me.
Sharon
I am overwhelmed with all the beautiful images. What a wonderful post. I have always wanted to visit Charleston! I think I would have a hard time leaving as well!
We will be going in Fall to the historical homes tour which takes place during a 2-week period. I am a true Southern Belle and appreciate so much the preservation of all things like Charleston in our country. Lovely post, btw. Just lovely. xx's
I have always wanted to visit Charleston…it looks so charming…love the architecture!
Okay, now I've got to add Charleston to my bucket list (haven't been since i was a kid)! Thanks for wasting my morning gazing at these gorgeous homes…I mean educating me on charleston architecture, ghosts and reality tv…a perfect monday morning in my book! 🙂
Can't wait to hear more about the summit and awesome design ladies of charleston!
terrific post! Charleston is the sister city of my hometown Savannah and my oh my how this post makes me long for the deep south. and what a lucky girl to see Charleston but also to meet and stay with Emilie! she's one of my favorite bloggers 🙂
Andrea, this post is amazing!!! SUCH eye candy! I am seriously going to use it as a travel guide for future visitors! 😉 It was so nice to have you here, and although I hope we get to host you again soon, I would prefer it if you just moved yourself into one of these pink beauties instead!
I love Charleston, and Savannah is another favorite. The architecture is so amazing. And the food! I just love the South. So charming.
Adore Charleston. My husband and I were there during Hurrican Hugo, we stayed at No. Two Meeting street in. I married adventure!
pve
Have you read the mystery series set in a Charleston tea shop by Laura Childs ??? Lots of their history and culture.