Charleston became a bucket list destination for me when I started reading Southern Living Magazine.
Many issues of that publication had the city of Charleston as a feature.
The iconic Charleston Single House was featured many times as well.
It soon became one of my favorite types of architecture and I wanted to see this iconic and unique style in person.
It didn't disappoint.
A Charleston single house is one room wide on the street side but can be several rooms deep.
The "front" door actually leads to the piazza or porch.
The actual front door to the dwelling is in the center of the porch.
I saw examples by car, bus, horse drawn carriage and on foot.
The piazza or porch proved irresistible to me to the extent that I dreamed I had such a porch.
Two legends float around town for the origination of the style.
One theory relates to the taxation of a dwelling.
The narrow front view would have cost less in taxes.
This story is circulated at the welcome center and by tour guides.
Many say that this is a myth.
Another theory attributes the style to that of dwellings in Barbados.
Most historical experts believe that the windows and covered porches took advantage of the prevailing winds.
Let me tell you, Charleston is hot.
The humidity was stifling.
I imagine that the early residents needed to take advantage of any breeze afforded to them.
The city was a walled city.
Charleston dates back to 1663.
It was the site of Revolutionary War skirmishes as well as Civil War battles.
The long and narrow lots allowed more residents and it offered protection.
The long and narrow lots allowed more residents and it offered protection.
It has sustained many fires, hurricanes and a major earthquake.
This city is resilient.
It is charming
and darling.
I saw one gentleman enjoying the Saturday morning paper and coffee from the comfort of his piazza.
Many of these home overlook fabulous walled gardens or courtyards.
Can you imagine?
Gorgeous!
Katie
Linking with,
Between Naps on the Porch
Savvy Southern Style
The Essence Of Home
