A landmark residence in Charleston’s coveted South of Broad neighborhood has changed hands in a notable $10 million transaction, underscoring continued demand for architecturally significant homes in the city’s historic core.
Located at 172 Tradd Street, the property—known as the Chisolm-Alston House—dates back to 1834, placing it among the more storied private residences in Charleston. Built during a period when the city’s wealth was closely tied to rice and lumber industries, the home reflects the grandeur and permanence of that era through its Greek Revival design, a style still admired for its symmetry, scale, and classical detailing.
Set on nearly half an acre—an unusually large parcel for downtown Charleston—the home offers approximately 5,700+ square feet of living space. The structure’s defining exterior feature is its two-story columned portico, a hallmark of the Greek Revival movement that creates an immediate sense of presence along Tradd Street. Inside, the home continues to deliver architectural impact with 12-foot ceilings, substantial cypress doors, and a dramatic staircase that anchors the central hall.
The residence includes four bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms, blending historic craftsmanship with modern livability. Over time, the home has undergone careful restoration and updates, preserving its original character while adapting it for contemporary use. Elements such as wide-plank flooring, intricate millwork, and formal entertaining spaces reflect the home’s origins, while improvements have enhanced functionality without compromising authenticity.
The property drew widespread attention when it was showcased in national real estate features highlighting distinctive homes, further elevating its profile beyond Charleston. Originally listed at $12.5 million, it ultimately closed at $10 million, reflecting both the premium placed on historic properties and the realities of market negotiation at the ultra-luxury level.
The buyer acquired the home through a Texas-based entity, a reminder of the continued influx of out-of-state capital into Charleston’s historic districts. These transactions often highlight the city’s dual identity: a preserved architectural treasure and an increasingly competitive luxury market.
Properties like 172 Tradd Street are rare not just for their scale or location, but for their ability to connect Charleston’s past with its present. As one of the more architecturally distinctive homes in the city, it stands as a lasting example of how historic preservation and modern demand continue to intersect in one of America’s most sought-after coastal markets.
172 Tradd Street Charleston
Charleston historic homes
South of Broad real estate
Charleston luxury home sales
Greek Revival Charleston
Bryan Crabtree is a Charleston-based real estate expert specializing in historic homes, luxury properties, and market trends across Mount Pleasant, Downtown Charleston, and the South of Broad peninsula. With decades of experience navigating the Lowcountry market, Bryan provides data-driven insights and strategic guidance for buyers and sellers looking to make informed real estate decisions.
Through his platform, The Real Estate Experts, Bryan focuses on delivering timely market analysis, emerging trends, and practical advice tailored to Charleston’s evolving housing landscape.
