Restored Circa 1834 Chisolm-Alston House in Charleston, South Carolina For $11 Million

172 Tradd St, Charleston, SC 29401

In the heart of Charleston’s prestigious South of Broad neighborhood stands a home that perfectly embodies the city’s blend of history, architecture, and Southern elegance. Known as the Chisolm-Alston House, located at 172 Tradd Street, this remarkable property is currently listed for sale at $11,000,000. Built in 1834, the mansion offers 5,774 square feet of living space with four bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms. For anyone looking at Charleston real estate, this home represents not just a purchase but the acquisition of a living piece of history. It is a rare chance to own an estate where every wall, staircase, and column carries a story that dates back nearly two centuries.

The house was originally constructed by Alexander Hext Chisolm, a successful businessman who owned a rice and lumber mill at the west end of Tradd Street. The architectural design is attributed to Charles F. Reichardt, a Prussian-trained architect who infused the home with the symmetry and grandeur of Greek Revival style. Its most striking feature, the towering Corinthian columns on the front portico, were modeled after the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens, immediately setting this estate apart from other homes listed for sale in Charleston. Standing before this house, it is easy to see why it is regarded as one of the city’s architectural treasures.

Originally, the property fronted the Ashley River before land reclamation projects in the early 1900s reshaped Charleston’s peninsula. Even though the waterfront is no longer directly accessible, the home retains its connection to the city’s maritime heritage through its elevated position, stately gardens, and commanding presence. The grounds are beautifully landscaped with palmettos, magnolias, camellias, and centuries-old live oaks, creating a setting that feels timeless and serene. For buyers looking at Charleston real estate, outdoor living is just as important as the interior, and this estate delivers both in abundance.

Entering the home, guests are immediately greeted by a sense of grandeur. The foyer showcases soaring 12-foot ceilings, 4-inch thick cypress doors, and a flying staircase that sweeps upward in a graceful curve. This architectural centerpiece is both functional and a true work of art. The first floor features spacious parlors on either side of the entry, with checkerboard painted floors adding charm and elegance. The formal dining room, lined with bookshelves and adorned with thoughtful detailing, is large enough to host refined dinner parties while still retaining a sense of intimacy. A family room provides a more casual gathering space, seamlessly connecting to the expansive kitchen.

The kitchen itself blends modern convenience with classic design. With a large island, custom cabinetry, double ovens, two sinks, and abundant counter space, it is designed for both everyday living and large-scale entertaining. A breakfast area brings light and warmth into the space, while an airy porch extends from the kitchen to the garden, allowing residents to enjoy Charleston’s temperate climate year-round. This combination of functionality and elegance highlights why this home is not only a mansion steeped in history but also a house perfectly suited for modern living.

Upstairs, the property continues to impress with two spacious bedroom suites and two additional bedrooms. The thoughtful layout allows for privacy while maintaining a sense of connection across the home. Light floods the rooms through large windows, illuminating the fabric-upholstered walls and rich design choices by noted interior designer Carolyne Roehm. Every room tells a story of balance between historic preservation and modern comfort, making this estate one of the most desirable homes currently for sale in Charleston.

The primary suite offers a luxurious retreat, complete with a spacious walk-in closet, woven rug carpet, and details that elevate the experience of daily living. The bathrooms blend timeless elegance with practical comfort, giving residents a spa-like space in which to relax. Having both front and back staircases ensures convenience, while maintaining the historic character of the estate.

The above-ground basement is another unique feature of this property, offering extensive storage and functional space rarely found in Charleston real estate. From the wine storage to the utility areas, it adds a layer of practicality that complements the beauty found throughout the rest of the mansion.

What makes this home particularly extraordinary is the blend of history, architecture, and modern lifestyle. Charleston is known for its vibrant real estate market, and homes like the Chisolm-Alston House seldom come onto the market. For a buyer, working with the right realtor will make clear that this is more than just a house—it is an investment in history, culture, and a lifestyle that few properties can match. A home like this sells itself, not only through its architectural presence but also through the experience it offers every day.

From the perspective of entertaining, the house is perfectly designed. Large parlors and a formal dining space make hosting gatherings seamless, while the kitchen and porch allow for more relaxed socializing. Outside, the gardens provide a tranquil backdrop for evening gatherings, family moments, or quiet reflection. Few estates for sale in Charleston offer this balance of indoor and outdoor living, combined with such significant historic pedigree.

Parking, often a challenge in Charleston’s historic districts, is thoughtfully addressed with off-street parking spaces. This makes the home both practical and convenient, without compromising the charm of its historic setting. Every element of the property has been designed or restored with attention to detail, ensuring that it functions as a modern home while remaining faithful to its historic origins.

Owning the Chisolm-Alston House means joining a lineage of residents who have valued history, architecture, and the Charleston lifestyle. It is more than simply buying real estate—it is securing a legacy. This estate stands as a symbol of Charleston’s ability to preserve the past while adapting to the needs of the present. For families, collectors, or individuals looking for a mansion that embodies both artistry and livability, this house is an unparalleled opportunity.

In today’s market, where so many homes listed for sale blend into one another, a property like this stands apart. It is a mansion that redefines what it means to own real estate in Charleston. The estate is not simply a house—it is a piece of history, a place of beauty, and a home where every detail reflects craftsmanship and care. Realtors who specialize in luxury estates will recognize the rarity of this offering, as properties of this caliber seldom appear on the market.

For buyers seeking more than just a residence, this home offers a chance to live within a work of art. With its soaring columns, grand staircase, and lush gardens, the Chisolm-Alston House is a perfect blend of Greek Revival architecture and Charleston tradition. It is a mansion that sells the lifestyle of refinement, sophistication, and Southern charm.

At $11,000,000, this estate is more than a listing—it is an opportunity to own one of Charleston’s finest homes, a mansion where history meets modern luxury, and a house that will remain a landmark for generations to come. For anyone exploring the Charleston real estate market, this home represents the pinnacle of what is possible.

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