Historic Renovation in Summerville

Preserving Charm and Creating Fabulous Modern Living

The wholehouse renovation of circa-1886 center-hall cottage home in Historic Downtown Summerville preserves Victorian detail on the exterior while adding all of the modern amenities including on-suite bedrooms and a large, bright white kitchen with keeping room.  By embracing the center-hall design we were able to re-orient the home into the spaces the homeowner needed.  Although we opened up doorways and relocated rooms, the layout feels as if it’s always been this way.  The nearly 12-foot high ceilings are accentuated by the large windows that flood the home with light.  Over the doorway entries off the center-hall are the original stain glass transoms, which help to bring natural light further into the interior of the home.  Step inside the original front door while passing under the sky blue painted porch ceiling and notice the four sets of restored french doors in the two front rooms of the home.

Once inside you’ll find a home of charming original details and at the center of the home, a large and open, bright white kitchen.  Tons of built-in custom cabinetry and millwork, including the coffered ceiling, make this significantly expanded and reorganized kitchen feel a part of the original home’s design.  White penny tile, with an inset black flower pattern echoes the style of a vintage home.  A center island, pantry and new powder room tucked in around the corner near the rear entry enhance the functionality of the space.  A quaint keeping room is located within the kitchen where we were able to incorporate an existing fireplace and create a bar area with additional custom cabinetry.

Located right in the heart of Historic Downtown Summerville, in addition to the renovation of the main house, a new detached guest house was re-built to replace a previous guest house lost in a fire.   The one bedroom guest home features an open plan design with a vaulted ceiling that accommodates for a sleeping loft.  Homeowner and guests can both easily access the outdoor living space with pavers and outdoor fireplace.

Image Gallery

Whole house renovation in Historic Downtown Summerville, SC designed by Swallowtail Architecture
Light, bright white kitchen with high ceilings
New large gourment kitchen in Summerville, SC wholehouse renovation
Outdoor living area design in Summerville, SC with fireplace and pergola
Architect: Rachel Burton, Swallowtail Architecture