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32 Legare Street, Charleston
$35,000,000
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

69 Church Street, Charleston
$12,500,000
7 Beds ⋅ 8.5 Baths ⋅ 26026443 MLS ⋅ South Of Broad SubDv. ⋅ Active Status
69 Church Street represents one of Charleston's most significant residential offerings, a grand pre-Revolutionary estate of exceptional architectural pedigree, remarkable scale, and extraordinary privacy in the heart of the historic district. Built circa 1745 and set on an expansive .29-acre lot on picturesque Church Street, this Category 1 Georgian double house is among the largest and most important surviving residences of its era in the city.From the moment one enters, the scale and quality of the architecture are striking. The main residence follows the classic Charleston double-house plan, with four principal rooms on each floor arranged around an elegant central stair hall rising four stories.Soaring ceilings of more than 11 feet extend through three floors, an exceptional feature for a house of this period, and beautifully proportioned nine-over-nine double-sash windows fill the interiors with natural light. The home is a remarkable expression of both the Georgian and Federal periods, with an extraordinary collection of original and period details. Fifteen fireplaces, King of Prussia marble surrounds, Delft tiles, exquisite mantels, wainscoting, original interior wood shutters, bespoke moldings and finely executed woodwork appear throughout. Among the most memorable rooms are the magnificent second-floor ballroom, the gracious drawing room, and the richly paneled cypress library. Remarkably, the third floor retains the same generous ceiling heights and window proportions found on the principal floors below, with the primary suite spanning the entire east side of the third floor. Despite its historic pedigree, the residence functions beautifully for modern living. Each bedroom has an en suite bath--an unusual luxury in a historic Charleston house. The original kitchen building is connected to the main residence by a hyphen and butler's pantry. The kitchen house contains a period-style kitchen and comfortable den overlooking the gardens through distinctive lancet-arched windows. Two additional bedrooms with two full baths in the kitchen house provide wonderfully private accommodations for family, guests, or live-in staff. Equally extraordinary are the grounds. Behind high brick walls, five exquisitely landscaped garden rooms unfold across the unusually deep property. Mature heirloom camellias, towering podocarpus, citrus and pomegranate trees create a lush, established landscape with a sense of discovery at every turn. A charming secret garden gives way to a large oval swimming pool, one of the earliest private pools downtown, with historic brick hardscape and secluded within the gardens, framed by Gothic Revival-inspired privies. A covered trellis anchors the far end of the pool, perfect for dining al fresco or enjoying some shade while poolside. The rear garden with fruit trees opens onto Ford's Court and provides additional off-street parking. For all its grandeur, 69 Church Street possesses an unexpected intimacy. Once inside its walls, the property feels remarkably quiet and private. The house flows effortlessly for large-scale entertaining, yet its library, den, garden rooms and hidden corners provide equally compelling spaces for retreat. Its history is inseparable from that of Charleston and South Carolina. Likely built by Richard Capers in 1745, the house was later occupied by Colonel Jacob Motte, who served as treasurer of the colony for 27 years. Meetings of the Commons House of Assembly were held here, likely in the second-floor drawing room, before construction of the historic State House at the corner of Broad and Meeting in 1791. In 1778, the residence was occupied by Colonel James Parsons, a member of the Continental Congress who had been offered the vice presidency of South Carolina prior to the formation of the United States. After suffering extensive damage during the Civil War, the property was purchased in 1869 by Eliza Middleton Huger Smith, who restored the house. Her granddaughter, Alice Ravenel Huger Smith, grew up in the home and became one of the most celebrated artists of the Charleston Renaissance and an important chronicler of the city's architecture. Many of her watercolors and sketches depict views from the windows of 69 Church Street, and her seminal The Dwelling Houses of Charleston was published in 1917. The current owners purchased 69 Church Street in 1998 and have continued that tradition of wonderful stewardship, undertaking extensive renovations while meticulously preserving and maintaining the property's architectural integrity. Few Charleston residences combine this degree of architectural importance, provenance, scale, privacy, gardens and livability. Set on one of the highest elevations within the old walled city and occupying an extraordinary estate-sized parcel, 69 Church Street is more than a historic residence, it is a tangible part of Charleston's story. Properties of this caliber and significance are held for generations. The opportunity to become the next steward of one is exceedingly rare.

69 Church Street, Charleston

20 S Battery Street, Charleston
$16,500,000
15 Beds ⋅ 18.5 Baths ⋅ 26025378 MLS ⋅ South Of Broad SubDv. ⋅ Active Status
The iconic Stevens-Lathers antebellum mansion is a celebrated, important property in Charleston, located at the tip of the Peninsula across from White Point Garden. Recently renovated and restored, the improvements are significant and respectful of the home's architecture. Boasting stunning waterfront views of the Ashley River, Ft. Sumter, and across the Peninsula, this impressive Greek Revival double house was built in the 1840's, a very prosperous period in Charleston, by Samuel Norman Stevens. This home was considered one of the finest mansions built on the Peninsula at the time and has hosted many important gatherings of the Charleston Society from its beginning to the present day.The deep lot includes a beautiful Charleston garden overlooking the original kitchen house and mansion. Originally built as a 3-story 'Neoclassical showpiece' by Stevens, it was later converted in the 1870's by its new owner, Col. Richard Lathers, into a more grandiose residence, adding a library on the new 4th floor and a grand ballroom measuring 25 x 40, detailing the Second Empire style. Most of the 1st- and 2nd-period architecture remains in the plaster cornices, Greek Revival columns, and door surrounds decorated with Anthemia leaves. The sweeping, oval staircase with an Empire Newel post still remains. The property still exists as a residence and an 11-room fully licensed and grandfathered inn, the Battery Carriage Inn. The Stevens-Lathers House is considered a Category 1 property by the City of Charleston and awaits a new steward to live in as a residence or maintain the mixed-use with a Boutique Inn.

20 S Battery Street, Charleston

28 Murray Boulevard, Charleston
$9,500,000
5 Beds ⋅ 6.5 Baths ⋅ 26024552 MLS ⋅ South Of Broad SubDv. ⋅ Active Status
Situated along Charleston's iconic Murray Boulevard, this exceptional residence offers over 6,500 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space in one of the city's most coveted waterfront neighborhoods. Enjoy stunning water views, remarkable privacy, and access to beautifully landscaped gardens that create a peaceful setting rarely found in the heart of historic Charleston. For many years, the gardens were featured as part of the Historic Charleston Foundation's Glorious Gardens program during its annual Spring House and Garden Tour, reflecting the property's enduring beauty and significance.With five bedrooms, five full baths, two half baths, and four levels connected by a private elevator, the home combines generous scale with an incredibly functional floor plan for everyday living and entertaining. The main living level is designed for gathering, featuring formal living and dining rooms, a spacious kitchen with adjoining breakfast area, an inviting parlor, private office, bar room, laundry room, and multiple porches that extend the living space outdoors. A private pool creates an ideal setting for relaxing or entertaining. The upper level is dedicated to the bedroom suites, including a spacious primary suite with dual walk-in closets and a well-appointed bath. Three additional bedrooms are located on the same floor, providing comfortable accommodations for family and guests. The top floor adds exceptional flexibility with a large bonus room, sauna, additional bath, and vast cedar-lined storage closets, creating the perfect space for a media room, fitness area, playroom, or private retreat while providing exceptional storage. The ground level offers abundant storage, a large two-car garage, and covered outdoor living areas, providing both convenience and practicality rarely found in historic Charleston. Perfectly positioned along the Battery, just moments from Colonial Lake, White Point Garden, and Charleston's renowned restaurants, galleries, and shopping, 28 Murray Boulevard presents a rare opportunity to enjoy substantial square footage, versatile living spaces, breathtaking views, and an exceptional South of Broad address.

28 Murray Boulevard, Charleston

2 Water Street, Charleston
$13,750,000
6 Beds ⋅ 6.5 Baths ⋅ 26015184 MLS ⋅ South Of Broad SubDv. ⋅ Active Status
The Nathaniel Ingraham House, circa 1810, is a rare opportunity to own a distinguished residence along Charleston's iconic High Battery. Positioned on the waterfront, this remarkable four-story brick and stucco home captures sweeping views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter while offering a remarkable sense of privacy and quiet rarely found downtown. One of the few remaining single-family homes on the Battery, the property represents an extraordinary blend of preserved architectural significance and refined Lowcountry living.Designed to take full advantage of its extraordinary setting, the home is oriented toward the harbor, with breathtaking water views immediately revealed through the grand living room's towering windows. Soaring ceilings, original heart pine floors, restored moldings, finely carved mantels, and a Venetian chandelier reflect the home's rich architectural history, while gracious proportions and abundant natural light create an atmosphere that feels both elegant and inviting. Thick masonry walls and elevated views further enhance the home's sense of tranquility and permanence. Recent improvements by the current owner include refinished heart pine floors, fresh interior paint, and the installation of two new HVAC units, thoughtfully enhancing the home while preserving its historic character. A thoughtfully executed 2007 addition introduced a spacious kitchen that opens seamlessly to the piazza through five sets of French doors, creating an effortless connection between indoor and outdoor living. The addition also incorporated an elevator servicing the first two floors and enhanced functionality for modern living while remaining true to the home's historic character. The second-floor primary suite enjoys exceptional harbor views and is accompanied by an additional guest suite with a distinctive cypress-paneled ceiling and full bath. The third floor offers three generously sized bedrooms and two full bathrooms, all notable for their scale, light, and character, with many rooms enjoying captivating water views. The garden level is designed for both entertaining and wellness, featuring a paneled billiard room, secondary kitchen and living area, bedroom suite, sauna, steam shower, exercise room, laundry room, and direct access to a private outdoor terrace. Situated on a rare double lot, the gated grounds include off-street parking, custom ironwork, a private Charleston garden, bluestone terraces, and a heated swimming pool with fountains, creating an exceptional outdoor retreat in the heart of the historic peninsula.

2 Water Street, Charleston

21 E Battery, Charleston
$14,000,000
7 Beds ⋅ 10.5 Baths ⋅ 26012755 MLS ⋅ South Of Broad SubDv. ⋅ Active Status
21 East Battery offers a rare opportunity to steward one of Charleston's most historically significant residences. Known as the Edmondston-Alston House, this extraordinary South of Broad property has stood overlooking Charleston Harbor for two centuries. It embodies the architectural beauty, resilience, and layered history that define the Charleston peninsula.Constructed in 1825 for Scottish shipping merchant Charles Edmondston, the residence was among the first substantial houses built along the city's seawall and what is now Charleston's iconic High Battery. A decade later, the property was acquired by Charles Alston, a member of a well-established Lowcountry rice planting family, who refined the house in the Greek Revival style. Alston added architectural elements including the signature three tiered piazzas supported by Corinthian columns and a distinctive parapet bearing the Alston family crest. From its earliest years, the house has been closely tied to Charleston's network of prominent families. In 1849, the marriage of Williams Middleton to Susan Pringle Smith united the Edmondston-Alston House with Middleton Place under one extended family lineage. Susan Pringle Smith's ancestry traces to Bishop Robert Smith, who arrived in Charleston in 1757, and served as the first American Episcopal bishop of the Diocese of South Carolina. Bishop Smith also played a foundational role in the creation of the College of Charleston, helping to finance and establish the institution. Through generations of intermarriage among the Smith, Middleton, and Alston families, ownership and stewardship of both Middleton Place and the Edmondston-Alston House became intertwined, reinforcing a legacy deeply rooted in land and heritage. The house has witnessed defining moments in American history. From the third floor piazza overlooking the harbor, Confederate General P. G. T. Beauregard observed the first shots of the Civil War in 1861. Later that year, General Robert E. Lee sought refuge here during the Great Fire of Charleston. For generations, the Edmondston-Alston House functioned not only as a residence but as part of a broader narrative connecting Charleston to Middleton Place. The Edmondston-Alston House served as a seasonal house, with family members residing during the summer months while maintaining their deep ties to the Middleton Place property. The grounds of the Edmondston-Alston House, surrounded by large oak trees, provided shade during the summer months. Within the house, the interiors were filled with historical artifacts and heirlooms, including Middleton Place silver. Over time, as family needs evolved, portions of the house were preserved while others remained actively lived in, reflecting the natural progression of a house continuously shaped by its stewards. In 1969, a generational transition took place when ownership of the Edmondston-Alston House formally passed to Charles Halliwell Pringle Duell, a twelfth generation Middleton descendant. The estate was thoughtfully divided, with Charles receiving the physical properties, including the Edmondston-Alston House and Middleton Place. The property features three distinct structures, creating a private enclave rarely found within Charleston's historic district. The main residence welcomes guests through a foyer that immediately establishes the scale of the house. Twelve foot ceilings, original moldings, and period craftsmanship reflect the artistry of early nineteenth century construction. Architectural detailing evolves from floor to floor, with subtle variations in trim work that speak to the layered history of the house. On the main level, two formal parlors extend from the central foyer, with original pocket doors allowing the spaces to flow together for entertaining or remain intimate for quieter gatherings. A staircase rises to the second floor, where two additional parlors continue the tradition of formal entertaining. These grand rooms, with their twelve foot ceilings, fireplaces, and intricate millwork, once served as important social spaces within the household. One parlor was historically reserved for ladies' gatherings, offering a glimpse into the customs of the period, while a library, traditionally used as a gentlemen's withdrawing room, adds further character to this level. The third floor serves today as the primary living quarters, where natural light and harbor views reflect the house's original design and orientation toward Charleston Harbor. This level includes two bedrooms, along with a spacious dining room that could easily serve as an additional bedroom. Directly behind the main residence, The Quarters, historically the kitchen building and living quarters for the enslaved, have been preserved and now serve as a private two story retreat with a living area, kitchenette, and gas burning fireplace on the main level. Upstairs, two well proportioned bedrooms and bathrooms make for inviting accommodations. Adjacent to the Quarters is the historic Carriage House, originally used as stables for horses and carriages as well as quarters for groomsmen, now configured as a bed and breakfast. The interiors retain original beamed ceilings and heart pine floors, preserving the authenticity of the structure. A sitting room occupies the main level, while two generously sized rooms are located upstairs. Together, the main residence, The Quarters, and The Carriage House form an exceptional historic estate along Charleston's High Battery. With harbor views, architectural pedigree, and centuries of documented history shaped by generations of stewardship, 21 East Battery offers a rare opportunity to own and preserve a remarkable piece of Charleston's past.

21 E Battery, Charleston

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