Living with Style, People, Places & Spaces, Travel Notes


Charleston in Early Spring

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It was a glorious sunny day in Charleston last  week but unseasonably cool and breezy. Nonetheless, it was dreamy being back in this southern town with its sherbert- colored houses. And I’m now also remembering the graciousness of residents who purposefully position at least part of their gardens so that they can be admired by strolling passersby (as in the feature image above).

The bits of greenery and flowers that had braved the chill were such a welcome sight…accenting the details of Charlestons’ homes that made them all the more appealing, the front doors in particular.

Aaaah,   the memories…

A cloisters-like design with a simulated rill running through the middle.

Window boxes that are tastefully coordinated with the color of their house…

Or, old bricks…

A simple side entrance displaying a keen appreciation for horticulture.

While a petit townhouse makes a design statement of pea vine accenting the risers of its front steps.

And the Mills House chooses summer pink and baroque-inspired molding as a foil for its green accents.

Finishing, appropriately, with a cluster of old camellias at Charleston’s near-by jewel, Middleton Plantation.

Happy Birthday, dear Valerie, with so many mercis….

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About Bettie Bearden Pardee

Author of Private Newport and Living Newport, garden furniture designer (The Parterre Bench), national lecturer, and entertaining expert. An honoree for the second year on "The Salonniere 100 America's Best Party Hosts", she was also the host and creative producer of "The Presidential Palate: Entertaining at the White House".

4 thoughts on “Charleston in Early Spring

  1. Thank you for this posting! I just spent a month on James Island. I love Charleston and your photos brought back lovely memories.

  2. I love the rich historical beauty of Charleston! Thank you for sharing these lovely images full of texture and color. Great inspiration for the designer in all of us!

  3. Beautiful story! Perfect seasonal timing, loved seeing this. The vine covered risers !
    Happy Spring & hugs to Clicquot & you😻

  4. The Mill House is pretty in pink! Have you ever considered giving a week tour of the gardens in the area? I would be first in line.

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