Time to Visit Charleston?

A few summers back, we took a road trip to the Southeast, and after visiting Charlotte, we arrived in beautiful Charleston. At the time, we were “researching” possible retirement destinations including Savannah and beyond. I was one very wide-eyed, swooning flâneur* as we strolled Meeting, Church, and Battery Streets, absorbing inspiration from historical homes near White Point Gardens (aka “The Battery”). Sooooo much more than pretty old houses. Indeed, these architectural wonders somehow remain intact after natural disasters and war. Join me as as we revisit Historic Charleston Mansions and Gardens of the Battery.

* flâ·neur/fläˈnər/. From the French noun flâneur, it means “stroller,” “lounger,” “saunterer,” or “loafer.” Flânerie is the act of strolling, with all of its accompanying associations…a near-synonym is ‘boulevardier’.

Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors and Gardens: Walking & Carriage Tour of the Battery With Photos As Well as Architectural Inspiration.

Photos: Hello Lovely Studio (unless otherwise noted)

Charleston Mansions and Gardens of the Battery

What is the Charleston Battery? An area of the city at one time home to a battery of canons along the seawall. The battery protected Charleston as well as mansions near the wall. It’s home to White Point Garden, Charleston’s first public park where you can enjoy: live oaks, palmetto trees, views of Charleston harbor, historical monuments, peaceful benches, and…

Night heron. Near the Battery and White Point Gardens area of Charleston, we strolled the streets of magnificent historic homes with breathtaking architecture and gardens. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio.
Hello Lovely Studio…a sweet heron in the park indeed.

…lovely night herons. Oh, they were my favorite feature of the park along with the oaks!

Live oak trees. Near the Battery and White Point Gardens area of Charleston, we strolled the streets of magnificent historic homes with breathtaking architecture and gardens. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio.
Charleston Mansions and Gardens: Walking & Carriage Tour of the Battery With Photos As Well as Architectural Inspiration
Gazebo. Near the Battery and White Point Gardens area of Charleston, we strolled the streets of magnificent historic homes with breathtaking architecture and gardens. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio.
Gazebo at White Point Garden…certainly a charming place to relax indeed.

Historic Charleston House Exteriors

What style of homes can you expect to see in the area? The historic homes I strolled by hail from the pre-Revolutionary, Antebellum, and Victorian periods.

Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Charleston Mansions and Gardens: Walking & Carriage Tour of the Battery With Photo Gallery

How big are these Charleston mansions? These are not tiny summer homes! Even though many were built as summer homes for wealthy plantation owners, I was surprised by their square footage.

Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Hello Lovely Studio…decidedly gorgeous spilling over window boxes.

The largest home is 20,000 square feet.

Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Hello Lovely Studio…a lovely visit indeed! Charleston Exteriors, Interiors and Gardens: Walking & Carriage Tour of the Battery Photos As Well as Architectural Inspiration
Healing quote from Jeff Foster on Hello Lovely Studio. #personalgrowthquotes #healingquotes

What Does it Cost to Live Here?

How much do Charleston mansions here cost? Sometimes more than $1,000 per square foot. Get a feel for the style from one of my favorite homes:

1762 Charleston Home for Sale: Dewar Lee Pringle House

The Dewar Lee Pringle House, circa 1762, is an exquisite four-story Charleston Single house located on one of the most iconic streets in downtown Charleston. Just shy of technically being a “mansion,” it is 4,949 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 6 baths.

Charleston's Dewar-Lee-Pringle historic mansion built in 1762 at 92 Tradd St. #charlestonexterior

At the time I penned this, the price had been slashed a half million dollars! This stately home uniquely blends Greek and Egyptian Revival styles with large, elegant rooms, seven fireplaces, fine moldings, and original heart pine flooring.

Charming black and white checkered porch floor at the historic Dewar-Lee-Pringle house built in 1762. #charlestonhomes #charlestonporch #charlestonpiazza
The quintessential black and white checkered floor welcomes you into the lovely ground-level piazza overlooking the lush-walled garden.

A three-tiered piazza and a rooftop deck overlook a luxurious garden with a private drive and parking for four cars.

Beautiful award winning garden in Charleston's Dewar-Lee-Pringle house built in 1762. #charlestongardens

Extensively renovated over the past few years, this incredible masterpiece provides owners with modern luxuries while honoring its storied history.

Beautiful award winning garden in Charleston's Dewar-Lee-Pringle house built in 1762. #charlestongardens
The garden at the Dewar-Lee-Pringle House won 2022’s HGTV’s Ultimate Gardens of the year. It is brimming with lush landscaping, brick inlay seating area, and charming garden fountain that provides soothing sounds of running water.

This home is located on a picturesque street in the prime location of South of Broad known for its tree-lined sidewalks, lovingly maintained gardens, and stunning architecture of preserved homes dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

Gorgeous built-in wet bar with sage green cabinetry and wallpaper - located in Charleston's Dewar-Lee-Pringle house built in 1762. #charlestoninteriors #traditionalstyle #wetbar

Many homes boast intricate architectural details, including ironwork, multiple piazzas, and grand columns. Meticulous private wall gardens, brick courtyards, and bubbling fountains complement the magnificent residences.

Cheerful bright blue whimsical wallpaper in a traditional bedroom at Dewar-Lee-Pringle house built in 1762. #charlestoninteriors #bluebedrooms
On the ground level, the expansive primary suite features original heart pine flooring and a fireplace with a Georgian-style mantel.

I could move right into this beautiful home with its traditional, tasteful, timeless designs. While the home is magnificent, it also feels very livable. (The tile in the shower below is the same tile we put in our kitchen, pantry, and laundry room!)

Gorgeous classic white bath with calacatta marble tiled shower in Charleston's Dewar-Lee-Pringle house buit in 1762. #charlestonhomes #classicbathdesign

Named after the many prominent Charleston families who owned it before, the Dewar-Lee-Pringle House, at 92 Tradd Street, is a relic of Charleston history. Charles Dewar built this house shortly after purchasing the lot in 1762.

Charleston's Dewar-Lee-Pringle historic mansion built in 1762 at 92 Tradd St. #charlestonexterior

And don’t get me started on that rooftop deck! The views must be stunning.

Historic Charleston Homes to Admire

What notable antebellum mansions will woo you? The Louis DeSaussure House, George Chisholm House, William Washington House, Edmonston-Alston House, Colonel John A.S. Ashe House, Charles Drayton House, Roper House, James Spear House, Colonel John Ashe House, William Ravenel House, and Villa Margherita.

Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Charleston Exteriors, Interiors and Gardens: Walking & Carriage Tour of the Battery Photos As Well as Architectural Inspiration.

Quotes from Charlestonians

You know I love collecting inspirational, humorous, and whimsical quotes, so those in this post have a common thread running through them: they are by Charleston hometowners.

Humorous quote by Bill Murray on a grey ground on Hello Lovely Studio.

Lush Charleston Window Boxes

Even when the color story is retrained, it’s breathtaking!

Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens

Don’t you love those lush leaves the size of your head?

Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Charleston Mansions and Gardens on Hello Lovely
Whimsical and poignant quote by Pat Conroy on Hello Lovely Studio.

Lovely Charleston Secret Gardens

Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Hello Lovely Studio…certainly an enchanting Charleston courtyard indeed.
Whimsical and poignant quote by Pat Conroy on Hello Lovely Studio.
Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Downtown Charleston Homes With Inspiring Curb Appeal and Lush Window Boxes as well as Rich Architectural Details. Exterior Design Inspiration: Photo Gallery of Traditional Southern Style In Case You Love South Carolina.
Humorous quote by Bill Murray on a grey ground on Hello Lovely Studio.

Carriage Ride in Charleston

Since this visit to Charleston entailed only a single day downtown, we didn’t have time for an architectural tour beyond the wonderful historical carriage ride tour we took with Palmetto Carriage Works.

Palmetto Carriage wedding carriage ride in Charleston, SC. #palmettocarriage
Photo: Palmetto Carriage Works…a traditional way to see Charleston indeed.
Life quote from Christina Baldwin on Hello Lovely Studio. #uncertaintyquote #lifequotes #encouragementquotes

From a 4th generation Charlestonian former trial attorney, we learned so much about the history of Charleston, churches, earthquakes, alcohol consumption, architecture, gullah culture, and hauntings. Yes, hauntings.

Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Creeping Fig everywhere on beautiful homes!

Fortunately, there was plenty of laughter on the tour too. When discussing a particular religious denomination and the love for drink in Charleston, he remarked “when two are more gathered, there’s always a fifth.”

Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Humorous quote by Bill Murray on a grey ground on Hello Lovely Studio.

Pretty Pops of Blooms on Stucco Homes

Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Hello Lovely Studio…black shutters on terracotta hued stucco.
Charleston's charming historic district is graced with architecturally magnificent homes, secret gardens, lush window boxes, and colorful design inspiration. Come enjoy this photo gallery with Historic Charleston Mansion Exteriors on Hello Lovely Studio. #charlestonhomes #charlestongardens
Downtown Charleston Homes With Inspiring Curb Appeal and Lush Window Boxes as well as Rich Architectural Details. Exterior Design Inspiration: Photo Gallery of Traditional Southern Style In Case You Love South Carolina.

Seafood, Please

We enjoyed a delicious casual lunch at Charleston Crab House.

Galvanized bucket of crab legs at Charleston Crab House.
Photo: Charleston Crab House…certainly rustic and laid back indeed.
Whimsical and poignant quote by Pat Conroy on Hello Lovely Studio.

Inexpensive Stay Off the Beaten Path: Double Tree Hilton in North Charleston

Our vacation was spur of the moment when my husband’s schedule unexpectedly opened up and we winged it. No fancy hotels or quaint downtown airbnb for us since we held all of our plans loosely.

We stayed at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel in North Charleston, and the room was immaculate and peacefully overlooking a forest. Hello Lovely Studio.
Hello Lovely Studio…an affordable stay indeed at a hotel in North Charleston.

We stayed at the Double Tree Hilton in North Charleston which was more than adequate.

We stayed at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel in North Charleston, and the room was immaculate and peacefully overlooking a forest. Hello Lovely Studio.
Hello Lovely Studio…in case you need an idea for a North Charleston hotel.
Whimsical and poignant quote by Pat Conroy on Hello Lovely Studio.

Hotel details: 5264 International Blvd, North Charleston, SC 843.576.0300.

We stayed at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel in North Charleston, and the room was immaculate and peacefully overlooking a forest. Hello Lovely Studio.
Hello Lovely Studio…certainly a peaceful view.

I much prefer staying at a quiet property where trees (and not rowdy tourists) sway outside my windows.

Inspirational quote by George Washington Carver on Hello Lovely Studio.
We stayed at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel in North Charleston, and the room was immaculate and peacefully overlooking a forest. Hello Lovely Studio.
Humorous quote by Bill Murray on a grey ground on Hello Lovely Studio.
We stayed at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel in North Charleston, and the room was immaculate and peacefully overlooking a forest. Hello Lovely Studio.
Hello Lovely Studio…in case you need a pleasant hotel for a trip to Charleston.
Humorous quote by Stephen Colbert on a grey ground on Hello Lovely Studio.

102 Degrees To Remind Us Where We Are!

It was hot, and I’m always good with the heat even when my hair is not. But forget about capturing a relaxed selfie!

Hello Lovely Studio…don’t look, mom, I’m melting.
Humorous quote by Stephen Colbert on a grey ground on Hello Lovely Studio.

Eclectic Unexpected Lovely in a Renovated Charleston Home

Even if the unique interiors are not your style, I guarantee you will find inspiration from savvy creative dynamo, Jill Sharp Weeks.

Your turn. What do you love about the city? Let us know points of interest to not be missed.

Peace to you right where you are.

-michele

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White Slipcovered Sofa
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Deconstructed Wingback Bed
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Milagro Heart
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Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
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White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
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Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
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Distressed White French Country Chandelier
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Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
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Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
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Warner Upholstered Bench
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Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
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Let’s SHOP!

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing