Charleston SC, October 22, 2025
News Summary
Charleston, South Carolina, exemplifies a unique blend of preservation and modernization, as highlighted by designer Alecia Stevens. Known for its walkable streets, stunning architecture, and rich cultural scenes, Charleston attracts visitors while residents strive to maintain its quaint charm amid growing commercial influences. The city’s historic preservation efforts began after the Civil War, culminating in the first U.S. preservation ordinance in 1920. Charleston continues to evolve, showcasing attractions like the International African American Museum, blending modernity with its rich heritage.
Charleston: A City of Preservation and Modernization
Charleston, South Carolina, is experiencing a unique blend of preservation and modernization, celebrated by interior designer and writer Alecia Stevens. Longtime connections to this historic city enhance her insights into the evolving landscape that continues to attract residents and visitors alike.
Stevens, who first moved to Charleston from Iowa City, Iowa, in 1978 and returned in 2014 after spending three decades in Minneapolis, describes the city as a place of great beauty and charm. Charleston has been recognized as the readers’ favorite city in the U.S. for twelve consecutive years by Travel and Leisure magazine, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Locals, known as Charlestonians, often express a desire to maintain the city’s quaint characteristics amid increasing migration from the North and the influence of social media, which have introduced a new demographic to the area. The city is known for its walkable streets, stunning architecture, rich cultural scenes, exceptional food, and nearby beaches, contributing to its popularity as a destination.
The Historical Context of Preservation
Charleston’s preservation movement emerged after the economic collapse following the Civil War, leading to a phase of “preservation by neglect.” In a proactive step, Charleston passed the first historic preservation ordinance in the U.S. in 1920, paving the way for safeguarding the city’s architectural heritage.
Stevens’ Influence and Design Philosophy
Stevens recounts formative experiences in Charleston that have significantly shaped her design philosophy and personal identity. She admires local architectural styles, particularly the 18th and 19th-century features such as mottled stucco and watercolor-like paint, which add character to the city’s landscape. According to her, old furnishings like tattered silk upholstery and brown furniture contribute a lived-in quality to interiors, standing in contrast to newer items. She emphasizes that the true beauty of spaces lies in their imperfections, mirroring the allure of Charleston itself.
Recommended Attractions and Experiences
Visitors to Charleston are encouraged to explore historic streets, including Legare, Tradd, Church, King, Meeting, Lamboll, Gadsden, and Rainbow Row. Accommodations like the Zero George boutique hotel combine historic charm with modern Southern hospitality. The Aiken-Rhett House is highlighted for its untouched status and connections to the archaeological history of enslaved African Americans.
The Gibbes Museum of Art has shifted its focus from historical exhibits to showcase contemporary Southern artists, while the Charleston Library Society, established in 1748, hosts design-focused events that are accessible to the public. The Unitarian Churchyard, known for its public gardens, reflects Charleston’s rich historical architecture.
Additional highlights include the Nathaniel Russell House, a prime example of preserved neoclassical architecture, and Drayton Hall, constructed in 1738, one of the earliest instances of Palladian architecture in the United States. Charleston’s antique shops, such as Seventeen South Antiques and Alexandra AD Antiques, are noted for their curated collections.
Contemporary offerings
The city continues to evolve with attractions like the International African American Museum, which opened in 2023, showcasing Charleston’s commitment to recognizing its complex history. The Dewberry Hotel features a rooftop bar with stunning views, blending modern design elements with historical influences. New establishments like Wentworth, created by event designer Gregory Blake Sams, successfully meld contemporary aesthetics with traditional styles. Dining options such as Chez Nous and Bin 152 offer unique decor and menu selections, while Lillian’s Petite Market & Eatery is characterized by its community-driven approach within a historic cottage.
Conclusion
Charleston remains a vibrant city where history and modernity coexist, providing unique experiences for both residents and visitors. As Alecia Stevens reflects on her time in Charleston, it becomes clear that the city’s efforts in preservation have not only maintained its beauty but also fostered a dynamic community reflective of its rich past.
FAQs
What city has been named the readers’ favorite city in the U.S. for 12 consecutive years?
Charleston has been named the readers’ favorite city in the U.S. for 12 consecutive years by Travel and Leisure magazine.
Why do locals express a desire for Charleston to remain less commercialized?
Locals, referred to as “Charlestonians,” often express a desire for the city to remain a quaint, less commercialized locale.
What is Charleston known for?
Charleston boasts walkable streets, beautiful architecture, vibrant cultural scenes, great food, and nearby beaches.
When was the first historic preservation ordinance passed in Charleston?
The first historic preservation ordinance was passed in Charleston in 1920.
What are some recommended attractions in Charleston?
Some recommended attractions include the Aiken-Rhett House, the Gibbes Museum of Art, and the Nathaniel Russell House.
What is the International African American Museum?
The International African American Museum, opened in 2023, represents Charleston’s commitment to recognizing its complex history.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Readers’ Favorite City | Charleston has been named the readers’ favorite city in the U.S. for 12 consecutive years by Travel and Leisure magazine. |
| Charlestonians | Locals express a desire for the city to remain a quaint, less commercialized locale. |
| City Offerings | Known for walkable streets, beautiful architecture, vibrant cultural scenes, great food, and nearby beaches. |
| Preservation Movement | Started after economic collapse post-Civil War, with the first historic preservation ordinance passed in 1920. |
| Recommended Attractions | Aiken-Rhett House, Gibbes Museum of Art, Nathaniel Russell House, and the International African American Museum. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Charleston Leaders Seek Input on Historic Architecture
- Wikipedia: Charleston, South Carolina
- ABC News 4: Preservation Society Seeks Support for Meeting Street Landmark
- Google Search: Charleston preservation architecture
- Christianity Today: Black Church Preservation and History
- Google Scholar: Charleston historical architecture
- Charleston City Paper: Lowcountry Land Trust Celebrates Conservation Center Opening
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston, South Carolina
- Live 5 News: Historic Red Top Park Gains Protection Status
- Google News: Charleston community events
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
