208 Sumter Avenue, Summerville SC 29483

Description

The Elizabeth Arden House, a storied estate in Summerville, is a timeless symbol of elegance and grandeur. Spanning nearly 8,400 square feet, the property features a stately 6,300+ square-foot main house accompanied by three charming cottages, offering a total of nine bedrooms, eight full baths, and four half baths. With four kitchens, a luxurious pool and pool house, a multi-car garage, and 1.2 acres of beautiful gardens designed by landscape architect Robert Marvin, fully fenced with antique wrought iron fencing and electric gate, this estate is a rare blend of pedigree, history, and sophistication. Conveniently located just 25 minutes from downtown Charleston and close to nearby beaches, it offers an unmatched lifestyle in the Lowcountry.Arguably the most iconic residence in Summerville, this stunning Victorian home, widely known as the Elizabeth Arden House, was originally built in 1891 by A.J. Braid for Charleston attorney Samuel Lord. Later, the renowned businesswoman Elizabeth Arden acquired the property as a summer retreat, selling it in 1954 while establishing her global cosmetics empire. It is said that Arden would paint the front door a different color to match each season, though it now remains red, inspiring the signature entrances to her salons.

While Arden is the most famous resident of this estate, other notable figures have also called it home.

The property was once owned by Lillian Bostwick Phipps an Ogden Phipps of New York. Ogden, a stockbroker, hailed from a prominent family in thoroughbred horse racing, co-founding the renowned Wheatley Stable, which produced champions like Seabiscuit and Bold Ruler. Lillian, an American socialite, came from the family behind Bostwick Field, a celebrated polo venue in Old Westbury, New York. She later became a successful thoroughbred horse owner and philanthropist. Notably, Lillian’s eldest daughter was iconic fashion designer Lilly Pulitzer.

The home showcases timeless elegance with soaring 12-foot ceilings, heart pine floors, double piazzas, intricate hand-carved moldings, six fireplaces, automated shades throughout, and an elevator. The estate is enclosed by elegant wrought iron fencing and boasts meticulously designed formal gardens, including a life-size chessboard and a Secret Garden swing. It features three fully appointed cottages, expansive landscaping, and towering live oak trees, complemented by brick walkways and comprehensive landscape lighting throughout the property. Additional amenities include a pool with an adjacent pool house, complete with a fully equipped kitchen and guest bathrooms, as well as a detached garage.

Main House – First Floor

The main level offers an array of exquisite living spaces, including double parlorseach with its own fireplacea formal dining room with a bay window providing breathtaking views, an office, two half baths, a bar, and a bright sunroom. The chef’s kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, equipped with high-end stainless steel appliances, including a Viking range with double ovens and a large range hood. Custom cabinetry includes a built-in desk and bench seat overlooking the rear garden, along with a spacious walk-in pantry. A cozy breakfast nook, adorned with built-in shelving and cabinetry, is perfect for casual meals. The sunroom features arched windows, French doors, exposed brick, and built-in shelving, with direct access to the rear patio and pool, making it an entertainer’s dream.

Second and Third Floors

The second floor houses four generously sized bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom. One bedroom also includes a flexible space ideal for an office or dressing room. The third floor offers two additional spacious bedrooms that share a beautifully designed bathroom with custom tile work.

Outdoor Amenities

The outdoor spaces are equally impressive including a 321 sq. ft. heated and cooled pool house featuring a covered seating area, ideal for relaxing with family and friends. An outdoor kitchen enhances the space, complete with drink refrigerators, a seating island, custom lighting, a grill, gas cooktop, dishwasher, farmhouse sink, and separate his-and-her guest bathroom perfect for elevating any entertainment experience. In addition to the main residence, the property features three fully-equipped cottages currently generating supplemental income through short-term rentals. These cottages offer the flexibility to be repurposed as living spaces for family members, making this an ideal setting for a multi-generational family compound.

Casino Cottage: 741 sq. ft. featuring a living area, kitchen, laundry room, full bathroom, breakfast nook, and a spacious upstairs bedroom.

Coastal Cottage: 562 sq. ft. offering a kitchen and living area, breakfast nook, full bathroom, and a bedroom.

Tuscany Cottage: 359 sq. ft., with a cozy living area, a spacious bedroom with a bay window, and a full bathroom.

Prime Location in Downtown Summerville

Nestled on one of the most desirable streets in Summerville’s historic district, this exceptional property offers a private retreat within walking distance of the town square, restaurants, shops, and tennis courts. Summerville is one of the fastest growing towns in the state, come see what makes it so special!

The Elizabeth Arden House is a rare opportunity to own a piece of history while enjoying modern luxury and convenience. Each owner has made their mark on the estate and a list of upgrades is available as well as floor plans, pre inspection, rental numbers, and more.