Charleston Interior Design Trends Throughout History That Stand the Test of Time

Charleston interior design is known for its distinct coastal design elements, airy and light aesthetics, and picturesque outdoor living spaces. These interior design trends’ enduring popularity directly ties back to the city’s deep culture, rich history, and laid-back lifestyle. The historical homes of Charleston exude a timeless elegance that is hard to replicate, and their design styles have and will continue to stand the test of time.

To capture the essence of Charleston interior design, our team at PRD Custom Homes has created a list of our favorite design trends that we believe truly embody its spirit. Revamp your property with a Lowcountry feel by incorporating a few of these trends into your Charleston home renovation!

Incorporating Reclaimed Materials

Charleston is renowned for its rich history, picturesque charm, and breathtaking natural landscape. The city’s close connection to the coastal environment has inspired a timeless Charleston interior design trend — the use of reclaimed materials in home renovation projects. 

This sustainable design trend focuses on the use of locally sourced and recycled materials, such as reclaimed wood, natural fibers, recycled metals, and locally sourced stones. Our Charleston interior designers have enjoyed working with Fisher Recycling and Encore Lumber to tie reclaimed and recycled materials into our local designs. Fisher Recycling uses processed glass to create custom countertops and Encore Lumber reworks reclaimed wood to enhance commercial and residential spaces. 

By incorporating these local elements such as these into their interior design, homeowners can give their space a unique Charleston feel, while also contributing to the environment and promoting sustainability. From rustic furniture made from reclaimed wood to countertops crafted from locally sourced stone, the use of reclaimed materials in Charleston’s interior design scene has become an increasingly popular design trend.

Outdoor Living 

With Charleston home renovations, homeowners often opt to add or update their outdoor living spaces. Charleston’s weather is beautiful almost all year round, and the landscape makes for the perfect backdrop. 

The Lowcountry locals have a particular affinity for outdoor living spaces, whether it’s a classic front porch, a back patio, or a stunning deck. These spaces are designed to bring the comfort of indoor living to the outside, allowing homeowners to enjoy the beauty of the Charleston landscape while relaxing in comfort. 

From outdoor living spaces to fire pits and porch swings, there are endless ways to create an outdoor living space that is both functional and stylish. Whether you’re looking for a space to entertain guests or relax with a good book, an outdoor living space should be on your Charleston home renovation must-have list. 

Accent Lighting 

When it comes to a well-designed home, accent lighting plays a crucial role in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. If you take a look at classic Charleston interior design trends over time, you will notice that scones have been a popular accent lighting fixture for decades. 

These wall-mounted lighting fixtures can be found throughout the interior rooms of Lowcountry homes. They are often used to highlight artwork and architectural features or to create a cozy ambiance. Incorporating sconces as a design element is just one of the many trends interior designers in Charleston gravitate towards that add to the timeless charm and character of these homes. 

Exposed Brick and Beams

As we drive or stroll through the streets of downtown Charleston, our eyes are naturally drawn toward the stunning Lowcountry homes that line the roads. One of the most striking features of these homes is the intricate detailing of exposed brick and accent beams. These elements not only add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the homes but also serve as a testament to their rich history and significance. 

The brickwork and beams showcase the unique architectural style of the Lowcountry. It’s no wonder that these features are responsible for much of the character and charm that these homes possess, making them one of the most beloved Charleston interior design trends.

Wide Plank Flooring 

In the realm of hardwood flooring, the wide plank trend has remained consistent in the Charleston interior design scene throughout the decades. This trend is most commonly done with oak and pine planks, both of which are light in color providing an airy and coastal feel. The defining feature of this style is the wide planks which create an optical illusion to make the room feel more spacious. 

This trend has become increasingly popular as many homeowners and interior designers in Charleston alike strive to create an open and airy atmosphere within their living spaces. 

A Charleston Interior Design Team’s Take On Lowcountry Interior Design Trends

Charleston is filled with charm and character which is reflected in the design of its homes. The city’s design is heavily influenced by its coastal environment, rich history, and deep culture, and local interior designers in Charleston tie these elements together to create memorable coastal trends. 

At PRD Custom Homes, we pull inspiration from classic Charleston interior design trends and our clients’ preferences to create exceptional custom home renovations that exceed their expectations. Our team works closely with our clients to understand their vision for their dream home and develop a plan that is tailored to their specific needs. If you are located in the Lowcountry area and are ready to start your Charleston home renovation, get in touch with our team today. We are committed to delivering exceptional results and can’t wait to get started on your project.