Set in the heart of lower Johns Island, South Island Market is a highly anticipated new mixed-use development. Poised to become a vibrant lifestyle destination, it will occupy the southeast corner of Betsy Kerrison Parkway and River Road. This commercial and residential 34-acre project blends retail, dining, office space, and luxury residential living — all designed to complement the island’s laid-back charm.
South Island Market will become a walkable, community-oriented hub where residents, visitors, and businesses come together.
About South Island Market
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Location & Lowcountry Setting
Just 25 minutes south of downtown Charleston, South Island Market enjoys a prime location that serves residents of Johns Island, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Its placement along one of the island’s main corridors ensures excellent visibility and easy access while still feeling distinctly Lowcountry.
A standout feature of the project is its emphasis on open green space.
Of the 34 acres, approximately 16 acres are dedicated to green space, allowing the development to breathe and blend naturally into its surroundings — a key element of the Johns Island lifestyle.
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Concept & Vision
Developed by Pinckney Partners in collaboration with Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic, South Island Market will elevate everyday living while preserving the island’s relaxed character.
The goal is to create a welcoming destination that “enhances the island’s charm and sense of community for local residents and visitors.”
That vision is reflected in the project’s human-scale design, pedestrian-friendly layout, and carefully curated mix of uses.
Program & Development Components
South Island Market will include approximately 82,000 square feet of commercial space spread across eight buildings, featuring a blend of:
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Boutique retail
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Restaurants and cafés
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Professional services
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Office space
Adding a residential dimension to the project are 79 luxury townhomes developed by Toll Brothers, known for high-quality construction and refined design. These homes will allow residents to live within a true lifestyle center — steps from dining, shopping, and services.
Outdoor amenities and open spaces are a major focus, reinforcing a sense of place that encourages gathering, walking, and enjoying the outdoors rather than simply driving in and out.
South Island Market will be delivered in two purposeful phases:
Phase 1
- 45,000 sq. ft. across five buildings
- First shops and restaurants planned to open Q1 2027
Phase 2
- 38,000 sq. ft. across three additional buildings
Together, these phases form a walkable, welcoming village center—one that will serve as a daily destination for Johns Island residents and a long-awaited amenity for the surrounding communities.
Audience & Market Opportunity
South Island Market is strategically designed to serve multiple audiences:
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Johns Island residents and neighboring barrier island communities
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Visitors and second-home owners seeking upscale dining and shopping options
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Businesses and professionals looking for visibility in one of Charleston’s fastest-growing corridors
Demographically, the market is strong. Within a 25-minute drive, the trade area includes approximately 28,600 people in over 12,400 households, with an average household income nearing $150,000, supporting premium retail, dining, and services.
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Why South Island Market Matters
This development stands out for several key reasons:
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It moves beyond traditional strip retail by combining residential, commercial, and green space in a cohesive master plan
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It meets growing demand on Johns Island while respecting the area’s Lowcountry character
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The involvement of Pinckney Partners and Toll Brothers brings confidence based on proven, successful projects
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Strong frontage and visibility offer a competitive advantage for retailers, restaurants, and office tenants
For Johns Island, South Island Market represents a natural evolution — growth that feels intentional rather than overbuilt.
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What to Expect Going Forward
For future residents, tenants, and visitors, here’s what to anticipate:
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Curated dining and boutique retail, emphasizing quality and experience over mass-market chains
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Townhomes that appeal to both local buyers upgrading on the island and relocation buyers seeking Lowcountry living close to Charleston
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Premium leasing opportunities driven by location, visibility, and an affluent customer base
While exact construction and opening dates have not yet been published, plans were publicly unveiled in late summer 2025, signaling forward momentum.
The arrival of South Island Market marks an exciting next chapter for Johns Island — one that blends community character with modern lifestyle amenities. Whether you’re envisioning a new place to dine, a boutique business location, or luxury townhome living in a walkable setting, this development brings something truly compelling to the island.