nextdoor
charleston interior design style

Charleston Interior Design Style: Top 3 Elegant Trends

Charleston Charm, Southern Elegance

The charleston interior design style embodies a unique blend of historic charm and effortless southern elegance that captivates both local residents and visitors alike. Key Elements:
1. Pastel Colors: Inspired by the historic Rainbow Row, these soft hues bring warmth and vibrancy.
2. Antique Meets Casual Furniture: A harmonious mix of heirlooms and contemporary pieces creates a lived-in feel.
3. Natural Materials: Use of hardwood, oyster shells, and rattan echoes the surrounding Lowcountry landscape.
4. Indoor/Outdoor Connectivity: Maximize the mild climate with seamless transitions and outdoor living spaces.

Charleston’s interior design showcases a distinctive Southern style characterized by its beautiful pastel colors, historic details, and the easy integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. This well-loved style is a treasure chest of design techniques that blend history, beauty, and the warm hospitality of the South.

Charleston Interior Design Elements Infographic - charleston interior design style infographic brainstorm-6-items

At Lowcountry Ace, our dedicated team is here to guide you in achieving a Charleston interior design style in your home, sharing expertise rooted in the region’s rich history and colorful aesthetics. Transitioning into the heart of your home, find how these elements can transform any space into a cozy Southern retreat.

Charleston Interior Design Style

Charleston’s interior design style is a delightful blend of coastal beauty, historical charm, and sustainable practices. This style captures the essence of Charleston’s rich past and its vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. Let’s explore two key elements that define this style: reclaimed materials and pastel colors.

Reclaimed Materials

One of the standout features of the Charleston interior design style is the use of reclaimed materials. This sustainable design choice not only supports eco-friendly practices but also adds a unique character to homes. Fisher Recycling and Encore Lumber are two local businesses that champion this trend by providing recycled glass countertops and reworked wood for both residential and commercial spaces.

Reclaimed wood, for instance, brings a rustic charm that echoes Charleston’s historic architecture. It’s a nod to the past while promoting sustainability for the future. Using locally sourced materials also helps create a connection to the surrounding Lowcountry environment, making your home feel more grounded and authentic.

Pastel Colors

Pastel colors are synonymous with Charleston, thanks to the iconic Rainbow Row—a series of historic homes painted in soft, inviting hues. These colors, such as mint green, blush pink, and light blue, bring a sense of calm and airy aesthetics to any space. They are perfect for creating a light and breezy atmosphere that reflects Charleston’s coastal vibe.

An interesting tradition linked to these colors is the Gullah Geechee practice of painting porch ceilings light blue. This tradition is believed to keep away evil spirits, adding a layer of cultural depth to the design. Incorporating these pastel shades in your home can evoke the same sense of peace and protection.

Search Lowcountry Ace

Quote about pastel colors and tradition - charleston interior design style infographic simple-quote-colorful

Incorporating these elements into your home not only improves its aesthetic appeal but also connects you to Charleston’s rich cultural mix. The Charleston interior design style is more than just a look—it’s a celebration of history, sustainability, and Southern elegance.

As you explore the possibilities for your space, let the helpful team at Lowcountry Ace assist you in bringing this charming style to life. Next, let’s explore the key elements that make Charleston interiors truly special, focusing on antique and casual furniture, as well as natural materials.

Key Elements of Charleston Interiors

Charleston interiors are a beautiful blend of history and comfort, making them both neat and inviting. Two standout features that define this style are outdoor living spaces and accent lighting. Let’s dig into these elements, exploring how they contribute to the unique charm of Charleston homes.

Outdoor Living Spaces

Charleston’s warm climate and picturesque landscapes make outdoor living spaces a must-have. These areas extend the living space of a home, offering a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments.

  • Front Porches and Back Patios: A classic front porch or a spacious back patio is a staple in Charleston homes. These spaces are perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or hosting evening gatherings. They often feature casual furniture like wicker chairs and wooden benches, which provide comfort and style.

  • Indoor-Outdoor Connectivity: To improve the flow between indoor and outdoor areas, many Charleston homes incorporate large windows and French doors. This design choice allows natural light to flood the interiors and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. By blurring the lines between inside and out, homeowners can enjoy the beauty of Charleston’s environment all year round.

  • Natural Materials: Using natural materials like wood and stone in outdoor spaces ties the design to the local environment. This choice not only improves the aesthetic but also ensures durability against the elements.

Accent Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the cozy, inviting atmosphere that Charleston interiors are known for. One popular choice is the use of sconces.

  • Sconces: These wall-mounted fixtures add a touch of elegance and are often used to highlight architectural features or artwork. They cast a warm glow that can transform any room into a cozy retreat.

    Search Lowcountry Ace

  • Cozy Ambiance: In addition to sconces, a mix of other lighting options, such as table lamps and pendant lights, can be used to layer lighting and create a welcoming ambiance. This approach allows for flexibility, letting homeowners adjust the lighting to suit different moods and occasions.

Incorporating these key elements into your home can capture the essence of Charleston’s interior design style. The blend of outdoor living spaces and thoughtful lighting not only improves the aesthetic appeal but also adds to the functionality and comfort of the home.

As you consider these elements for your own space, the helpful team at Lowcountry Ace is ready to assist with products and advice custom to achieving this charming style. Next, we’ll explore how Charleston’s rich history influences its interior design, focusing on historical renovations and transitional design.

Historical Influence on Charleston Design

Charleston’s rich history is woven into the very fabric of its design, with preservation and historical renovations playing a key role. This city is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, where the past meets the present in a seamless blend known as transitional design.

Exposed Brick and Beams

One of the most striking features in Charleston homes is the use of exposed brick and beams. These elements are not just about aesthetics; they tell the story of the Lowcountry homes and their unique architectural style. The exposed brickwork, often seen in older buildings, showcases the craftsmanship of a bygone era. It adds texture and warmth, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.

Accent beams, typically made from reclaimed wood, add a rustic charm that complements the brick. This combination is a nod to the city’s history, reflecting the resilience and character of Charleston’s architecture.

Wide Plank Flooring

Another hallmark of Charleston interiors is wide plank flooring. This style, often crafted from oak or pine, is celebrated for its ability to create an airy atmosphere. The wide planks have a way of making rooms appear larger and more inviting. Light-colored oak and pine are particularly popular, enhancing the brightness and openness of a space.

These floors not only look beautiful but also connect the home to its natural surroundings. They are a testament to the sustainable practices acceptd by Charleston’s designers, who often use locally sourced materials to maintain the city’s environmental integrity.

Incorporating these historical elements into your home can bring a touch of Charleston’s timeless elegance. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of exposed brick and beams or the classic appeal of wide plank flooring, these features provide a deep connection to the past while fitting seamlessly into modern designs.

As you explore these options, the helpful team at Lowcountry Ace is ready to assist with products and advice custom to achieving the perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary style. Next, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about the Charleston interior design style, diving deeper into what makes it so special.

Search Lowcountry Ace

Frequently Asked Questions about Charleston Interior Design Style

What is the Charleston interior design style?

The Charleston interior design style is a harmonious blend of coastal charm, historical elegance, and modern comfort. Known for its airy aesthetics and coastal design, this style captures the essence of Charleston’s laid-back yet sophisticated lifestyle. It often features light, pastel colors inspired by the iconic Rainbow Row and elements that reflect the city’s connection to its natural surroundings. Expect to see a mix of antique and casual furniture, creating spaces that feel both timeless and inviting.

How does Charleston’s history influence its interior design?

Charleston’s rich history is deeply embedded in its interior design. The city’s past is celebrated through preservation and historical renovations that bring old-world charm into modern homes. This influence is visible in the use of exposed brick and beams, which add texture and narrative to interiors. Transitional design is a popular approach, merging historical elements with contemporary styles. This creates a unique narrative that honors Charleston’s architectural heritage while embracing modern trends.

What are popular materials used in Charleston interiors?

In Charleston interiors, materials play a crucial role in reflecting both the city’s history and its commitment to sustainability. Popular materials include:

  • Reclaimed wood: Often used for beams and furniture, adding rustic charm and sustainability.
  • Locally sourced stone: Used for countertops and flooring, connecting homes to the Lowcountry landscape.
  • Natural fibers: Such as cotton, jute, and linen, which bring warmth and texture to the home.
  • Recycled metals and glass: Employed in fixtures and decorative elements, promoting eco-friendly practices.

These materials not only improve the aesthetic appeal of Charleston homes but also support the city’s dedication to environmental stewardship.

For those looking to incorporate the Charleston interior design style into their homes, the helpful team at Lowcountry Ace is ready to provide guidance and high-quality materials custom to your needs. Whether you’re drawn to the historical elements or the modern touches, Charleston’s distinct style offers a timeless and neat approach to interior design.

Conclusion

Creating a Charleston-inspired home is a journey into Southern elegance, blending historical charm with modern comforts. At Lowcountry Ace Hardware, we are committed to helping you bring this unique style to life with ease and convenience.

Our store on Folly Road is more than just a hardware shop—it’s a community hub where customer service meets local expertise. Whether you’re searching for the perfect pastel paint to mimic the iconic Rainbow Row or sourcing natural materials to improve your living space, our knowledgeable team is ready to assist.

Why Choose Lowcountry Ace?

  • Local Convenience: Located conveniently at the Riverland Market, we serve the James Island and Folly Beach areas, ensuring that all your home improvement needs are within reach.

  • Comprehensive Product Range: From paint and tools to garden supplies and fishing gear, we offer a wide array of products to support your Charleston interior design project.

  • Expert Guidance: Our team isn’t just here to sell products; we’re here to provide personalized advice and solutions custom to your style and needs.

    Search Lowcountry Ace

Expert Guidance at Lowcountry Ace - charleston interior design style infographic 4_facts_emoji_grey

Choosing Lowcountry Ace means investing in quality and community. We’re dedicated to making your Charleston home change a seamless and satisfying experience. Visit us today and let’s build something great together, one project at a time.

For more details on how we can assist with your home decor needs, explore our services and offerings.

eMail
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
StumbleUpon
X

Lowcountry Links

Carrie Hegenderfer
15:07 10 Apr 25
This Ace Hardware store is not really close to my house but I came here after having a poor experience at the Johns Island Ace. I was greeted by friendly employees upon entry and throughout my experience, asked if I needed help, the store atmosphere was cheerful and in organized condition, and they had absolutely no problem exchanging an item purchased at another Ace Hardware for a few other items from their store. I even spent extra money in store. I will drive the extra mileage to come to this store moving forward.
Response from the owner 16:10 10 Apr 25
Thank you so much for sharing your experience, Carrie! We’re delighted to hear that our friendly staff and cheerful atmosphere made your visit worthwhile, and that we could help with your item exchange. We’re here to serve the Charleston community with quality and dedication, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Lowcountry Ace Hardware for your future needs!
Anita Praytor
14:14 26 Mar 25
Visited Sunday afternoon 3/23/25. Always a pleasure to browse and shop at this Ace store. A man, Steve, around 4-430 totally helped me in the name of Customer Service. He cut chain for me that isn't sold separately for a hanging basket. Bigger, he followed me to checkout with a bag of soil weighing a ton. Steve insisted I bring my SUV parked in far-away Publix Land so he could lift it out of cart into my SUV. Wouldn't budge on who was moving the soil into the SUV! Thank you again, Steve! Anita
Response from the owner 15:45 14 Apr 25
Thank you, Anita, for sharing your delightful experience with us! We’re so glad to hear that Steve went above and beyond to assist you with cutting chain and helping with your bag of soil. At Lowcountry Ace Hardware, our team is always dedicated to making your visit as pleasant as possible. If you ever need further assistance, don’t hesitate to come back and see us!
Stephen Houmard
19:45 23 Jan 25
GREAT SERVICE! The older guys know everything!
Good Bye Lowes!
Response from the owner 20:00 23 Jan 25
Thank you so much for your enthusiastic review, Stephen! We're delighted to hear you received great service and that our experienced team could assist you. We're grateful for the opportunity to be your go-to hardware store in Charleston, and we look forward to helping you with any future projects!
Billy Erickson
22:34 26 Nov 24
All the employees I encountered were so helpful and friendly. The store is very clean.
Response from the owner 15:45 14 Apr 25
Thank you so much for your positive feedback, Billy! We’re so glad to hear that our helpful and friendly team, along with our clean store environment, made your visit enjoyable. Thank you for choosing Lowcountry Ace Hardware, and we look forward to assisting you with any of your future needs!
Pedro Jesus
19:33 07 Aug 24
Response from the owner 17:00 13 Aug 24
Thank you for the review, Pedro! We're glad to see you had a good experience. If there's anything we can do to make your next visit even better, please let us know.
Lauren Carter
18:39 11 Jul 24
Thad is the man— he saw our look of confusion in the paint aisle, immediately offered help, and even mixed the paint for us. So impressed by his customer service, we’ll definitely be back in the future!
Response from the owner 17:00 13 Aug 24
Thank you so much for the kind words, Lauren! We're thrilled to hear that Thad could assist you and make your experience enjoyable. We look forward to serving you again soon!
Brad Flaig
16:27 06 Jul 24
We love Ace! So helpful to not have to compete against the beach traffic or the Lowe’s traffic. This store is brand new, everyone is so helpful and the location is convenient
Response from the owner 20:00 09 Jul 24
Thanks for the wonderful review, Brad! We're thrilled to hear that you find our location convenient and enjoy our helpful staff. We look forward to serving you again!
Restora
16:11 08 Apr 24
Lovely! Has everything I always need and great customer service.
Response from the owner 15:10 28 May 24
Thank you so much for your kind words, Restora! We're delighted to hear you found everything you needed and enjoyed our customer service. Looking forward to helping you again!
Warren Weber
12:20 01 Apr 24
Nice selection of merchandise, people are friendly, reasonable prices
Response from the owner 15:10 28 May 24
Thank you for the great review, Warren! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed our selection, friendly staff, and reasonable prices. Looking forward to seeing you again at Lowcountry Ace Hardware!
Kat T
16:43 29 Mar 24
Frank approached is within seconds of entering into the plumbing aisle, he carried us throughout the store, getting the correct fittings to put us back in business. Thanks Frank!.
Response from the owner 15:10 28 May 24
Thank you for the awesome review, Kat! We’re thrilled to hear that Frank was able to assist you so effectively and get everything you needed. We appreciate your kind words!
Rhonda Jones
21:27 27 Mar 24
Steve Thad ,and Renee the customer service person were awesome and assisted me so much with my DIY project.If you want great advice and truly kind helpful staff please give them a chance to be of assistance. All the staff there were warm,friendly, and helpful. Thanks so much I appreciate ? yall.
Joshua Johnson
12:48 14 Oct 23
Manager wouldn’t return money to my credit card despite having the same card and rewards number (no receipt), so gift card only. I was told “I’d have to look it up in the computer, it’s tedious”

After talking to other customers, I learned it’s routine to return with same credit card or rewards account.
C D
20:58 30 Mar 23
This location is the best. They are attentive and professional and always aim to please. We ordered a grill from them which was delivered quickly. There was a slight defect and they immediately rectified the situation and went above and beyond on multiple aspects of the transaction. Everyone from the GM to the delivery guys and everyone in between are always so great. We will continue to give them our business ?!
CALL LOWCOUNTRY ACE