Design by Basic Projects | Photography by Nicole Franzen | Construction by Tiller Construction

A Journey Through Time

In the heart of downtown, this classic Charleston home embodies the essence of southern charm and timeless elegance. Built in the 1830s, with its distinct narrow design and sprawling piazzas, the residence stood witness to centuries of change.

From its humble beginnings as a merchant's abode to its transformation into apartments and eventual restoration to a single-family home, this Charleston gem has witnessed the ebb and flow of generations.

Design Redefined

Meet designer Kate Towill, the creative force behind Basic Projects, a Charleston-based design firm that's redefining the art of interior design.

With a background in set design, Kate brings a unique perspective to her work, infusing every project with a touch of theatrical flair and creative ingenuity. Her keen eye for detail, paired with her passion for storytelling, ensures that every space she touches becomes a work of art.

History Meets Modernity

With a delicate balance of renovation and innovation, Basic Projects breathes new life into Project 20. European antiques sourced from Round Top, Texas mixed with contemporary accents, creates a tapestry of textures and hues that captivate the senses.

The property consists of two principal rooms, a center hallway, an attic story with dormers, and each room features its own fireplace. A double-tiered piazza shades the western side of the house, and an ell addition connects the house to a charming back house.

There is a sense of discovery throughout the home with custom hand-painted tiles along the fireplace and kitchen backsplash, entire attic rooms of William Morris wallpaper, original raw materials celebrated where possible.

A Warm Welcome

The foyer welcomes you with hardwood floors, lovingly restored, and a gorgeous stained glass transom. Warm tones and vintage prints come together to create a relaxed and inviting entrance.

The Art of Living

Enter the living room, otherwise known as the music room, where warmth and comfort embrace you like an old friend. Sunlight filters through the curtains, casting a golden hue. The shelves are filled with titles and items the homeowners have collected over the years, creating the perfect space to cozy up.

Made for Entertaining

Reminiscent of a New York lounge, the dining room allows guests to mingle over dinner or simply unwind with a well-deserved drink in hand. There are cabinets on either side of the fireplace which open up to reveal a bar and wine storage.

Timeless Kitchen

Towill's background in restaurant design shines through in the thoughtfully crafted kitchen, where functionality takes precedence. Drawing inspiration from vintage European pieces, Towill collaborated with Hostetler Custom Cabinetry to craft a stunning 10-foot oak island that will age gracefully over time.

The choice of Rosa Portogallo marble for the counter and backsplash was a focal point, infusing the room with character and charm.The walls, painted in Benjamin Moore Simply White, provide a crisp backdrop that beautifully offsets the cabinets, painted in Benjamin Moore Pale Oak, adding depth and warmth to the kitchen

Contemporary Comforts

The master bedroom offers the lavish comfort found in luxury hotels. Painted in the soothing hue of Farrow & Ball Light Blue, the walls envelop you in a sense of calm and relaxation.

At the center of the room, a platform-bed frame, invites you to sink into it after a long day. With every detail curated, from the plush bedding to the soft lighting, Towil has transformed the primary bedroom into a haven of luxury and relaxation.

Artisanal Allure

Embracing the unique character of the house, the homeowners embraced the imperfections and celebrated them through tiles and textures.

The zellige backsplash behind the custom vanity, crafted by Hostetler Custom Cabinetry, lends an artisanal allure, its irregularities adding depth and character to the space. The flooring by Tiles of Ezra adds an earthy touch, grounding the room in organic charm and warmth.

A Place to Play

You can't help but feel a sense of wonder and delight in the daughter's room—a space where imagination knows no bounds. The walls exude playful floral patterns, juxtaposed by the wooden beams, which are original to the house.

Conceived as a space that ignites creativity and sparks the imagination, the playroom embodies the essence of childhood. Against a backdrop of whimsical wallpaper, a plum-colored sofa offers a cozy spot to curl up with a favorite book or embark on imaginary adventures.

The Perfect Addition

In the guesthouse living room, Towill encouraged the homeowners to infuse the space with their personal touch, filling it with meaningful artwork collected over time. With most of the furniture sourced from vintage finds, the living room exudes a timeless elegance that speaks to the couple's discerning taste and appreciation for the past.

The floors are painted in Benjamin Moore Pale Oak, a soft and neutral hue that provides a versatile backdrop for the room's eclectic furnishings and artwork. As you settle into the guesthouse living room, you can't help but feel a sense of home and nostalgia.

The guesthouse did not originally include a proper kitchen, although it featured a massive hearth dating from when the structure was used to cook meals for occupants of the main house. The homeowners wanted transform the hearth into a simple space with a farmhouse feel and lots of natural light.

A verdant upstairs bedroom offers a captivating design with a serene ambiance. The interplay of patterns and hues creates a sense of cohesion and harmony within the space.

Painted in the soft hue of Farrow & Ball Pink Ground, the walls envelop visitors in the secondary bedroom. The simplicity of the beds adds to the room's understated elegance, while the woven texture adds a touch of natural charm to the space.

Exterior Oasis

But the transformation of Project 20 extends beyond its walls, into the tranquil embrace of its exterior.

Collaborating with Ables Landscapes, Basic Projects conjures a garden oasis reminiscent of the French countryside.

The Final Chapter

Through the visionary lens of Basic Projects, this historic residence has been reborn. In its halls, past and present converge, inviting all who enter to write their own chapter in the home’s history.