32 LEGARE STREET, CHARLESTON, SC 29401
32 Legare Street
Charleston, SC 29401
$35,000,000
Beds:
11
Baths:
13
| 3
Sq. Ft.:
17,142
Type:
House
Listing #26028651
Behind Charleston's most iconic wrought iron gates lies one of America's most extraordinary historic residences: the legendary Sword Gate House. Located on prestigious Legare Street in the heart of Charleston's coveted South of Broad neighborhood, this magnificent estate is a masterpiece of Federal-style architecture, layered with more than two centuries of history, timeless elegance, and architectural significance.Originally constructed in the early 1800s and expanded over generations, the residence is famed for its iconic sword-shaped wrought iron gates crafted by renowned Charleston ironworker Christopher Werner. Installed by British consul George Hopley in the mid-19th century, these extraordinary gates have become one of Charleston's most recognizable architectural symbols and gavthe estate its enduring name. Set behind towering masonry walls and lush gardens, this spectacular compound unfolds as a private world unto itself, where grand salons, elegant ballrooms, sweeping piazzas, and richly detailed interiors evoke the romance, grandeur, and sophistication of Charleston's golden age. Exquisite plasterwork, intricate period millwork, soaring ceilings, exposed brick, and centuries-old craftsmanship blend seamlessly with a meticulous, design-driven restoration that elevates the estate to an exceptional standard of modern luxury. Set on approximately .87 acres, one of the largest residential parcels in downtown Charleston, the estate offers an extraordinary sense of privacy and tranquility in the heart of the historic district. Enclosed by towering masonry walls and lush, mature landscaping, the grounds have been transformed into a series of beautifully designed outdoor living and entertaining spaces. Manicured gardens, elegant hardscapes, dramatic landscape lighting, and an integrated sound system complement a new heated and cooled swimming pool and spa. A striking linear water feature, anchored by a glass conservatory, creates a dramatic focal point between the main residence and the carriage house. An inviting garden dining area with brick wood-burning fireplace provides an intimate setting for outdoor entertaining, while three levels of gracious piazzas overlooking the gardens and a magnificent 200+ year old magnolia tree. The estate's remarkable privacy is enhanced by its substantial perimeter walls, gated entrances, and discreet off-street parking, including a rare two-car garage and generous additional parking with a long driveway off Tradd Street. Together, these features create a level of seclusion, security, and convenience seldom found in historic Charleston. The Sword Gate House has served many roles throughout Charleston's storied history, from private residence to girls' academy, inn, and cultural landmark. Its legendary gates have welcomed diplomats, prominent Charleston families, famous artists, musicians, actors, and literary figures. Today the estate remains one of the city's most celebrated and architecturally significant properties, embodying the history, mystique, timeless grandeur, beauty, and elegance that define luxury Charleston living. The current owners have undertaken an extraordinary renovation, meticulously reimagining the property while honoring its architectural heritage. Virtually every surface has been thoughtfully restored or enhanced, with an emphasis on exceptional craftsmanship, bespoke design, and the finest materials. Designer lighting, custom furnishings, exquisite stone, rare woods, luxurious textiles, tailored drapery, and carefully curated fixtures bring a refined contemporary sensibility to the historic interiors. The result is a residence of remarkable sophistication, one that retains its authentic historic character while offering functionality, curated luxury design, and effortless elegance expected of a world-class estate. Meticulously maintained and beautifully appointed, the Sword Gate House offers a rare opportunity to acquire of the most design-forward and important trophy properties in Charleston, and perhaps the southeast. Spanning 17
Property Features
County:
Charleston
MLS Area:
51 - Peninsula Charleston Inside of Crosstown
Latitude:
32.774
Longitude:
-79.933793
Subdivision:
South of Broad
Directions:
Turn South On Legare Street, Cross Tradd Street, Property On Left.
Approximate Size (Sq. Ft.):
17,142
Rooms:
Bonus, Eat-In-Kitchen, Family, Formal Living, Foyer, Great, Laundry, Mother-In-Law Suite, Office, Pantry, Other (Use Remarks), Separate Dining, Breakfast Room
Interior:
High Ceilings, Ceiling - Cathedral/Vaulted, Elevator, Kitchen Island, Ceiling - Smooth, See Remarks, Walk-In Closet(s), Wet Bar, Bonus, Eat-in Kitchen, Family, Formal Living, Entrance Foyer, Great, In-Law Floorplan, Office, Pantry, Other, Separate Dining
1/2 Baths:
3
Has Fireplace:
No
Fireplace Description:
Bath, Bedroom, Den, Dining Room, Family Room, Gas Log, Great Room, Kitchen, Living Room, Other, Three +, Wood Burning
Heating:
See Remarks, Water-To-Air, Central
Cooling:
Central Air, Water-To-Air, Other
Floors:
Wood, Marble, Other
Laundry:
Laundry Room
Style:
Traditional
Stories:
Multi-Story, Other (Use Remarks)
Construction:
Stucco, Wood Siding
Exterior:
Rain Gutters, Lawn Irrigation, Other, Lighting, Balcony
Foundation:
Other
Roof:
Copper, Slate, See Remarks
Sewer:
Public Sewer
Water:
Public
Utilities:
Charleston Water Service, Dominion Energy
Security Features:
Security System
Parking Description:
Detached, Off Street, Other, 2 Car Garage, Garage Door Opener
Has Garage:
Yes
Garage Spaces:
2
Patio / Deck Description:
Porch - Full Front, Patio, Wrap Around, Front Porch
Has a Pool:
Yes
Pool Description:
In Ground
Lot Description:
.5 - 1 Acre
Lot Size in Acres:
0.87
Elementary School:
Memminger
Middle School:
Simmons Pinckney
High School:
Burke
Property Type:
SFR
Property SubType:
Single Family Detached
Year Built:
1803
Status:
Active
Complex Name:
South of Broad
$ per month
Year Fixed. % Interest Rate.
| Principal + Interest: | $ |
| Monthly Tax: | $ |
| Monthly Insurance: | $ |
Listing Courtesy of Maison Real Estate
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Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. The broker providing this data believes it to be correct, but advises interested parties to confirm information before relying on it for a purchase decision.
Information on this site is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Any use of the search facilities of data on this site, other than by a consumer looking to purchase real estate, is prohibited.
Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. The broker providing this data believes it to be correct, but advises interested parties to confirm information before relying on it for a purchase decision.
CHS Regional MLS data last updated at October 20, 2026, 8:03 AM ET
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