42 Anson is a chic, sophisticated residence with spectacular gardens in the heart of historic Ansonborough.  Behind its discreet facade, this contemporary home is an absolute jewel with spacious elegant rooms, terrazzo floors and three fireplaces.  Surrounded by an Italianate garden to the south and a Japanese garden to the east, the house was designed to feel like a private villa where East meets West with cosmopolitan flair.        

The two distinctive gardens, which have been featured in several books on Charleston style, are a very special feature of the property.  An iron gate along the street invites you into the serene setting of the first, Italian, garden with semicircular boxwood hedges along an allée, towering cypress trees, brickwork pathways and blooming sasanquas. This garden is a lush blend of Charleston and Italianate styles.  Behind an interior second gate is a stunning, gently-contoured Japanese-style garden with leafy maples, a flowing “stone river”, and other Asian-inspired features. Designed in Kyoto, this unique garden contains a small arched bridge that connects a path around the muraled walled perimeter to create a verdant and exotic retreat.    

The modern-style home was designed to take full advantage of its double-garden setting. There are unusually large glass picture windows and doors in the living room, dining room and primary suite which frame the garden views like art and invite the outdoors in. This exceptional property flows very well for entertaining, with the terrazzo floors extending out onto the patio for a seamless transition between inside and out.

The first floor of the home features a fabulous modern living room, with multiple seating areas, a wood-burning fireplace with oversized marble mantel, large picture windows and doors overlooking the gardens, and an elegant terrazzo staircase bathed in light from the skylight above. There is a large dining room, also with an oversized glass window providing lots of natural light and a garden view. This home feels like a sophisticated gallery, with terrific spaces to showcase an art collection.  The kitchen is spacious and ready for a buyer to update to their tastes.  A covered patio is a wonderful spot to enjoy al fresco dining or cocktails.  There is also a full bathroom on the first floor, colorfully decorated with vintage Sherle Wagner wallpaper, fixtures and hardware.    

On the second floor, the grand primary suite features a fireplace and large picture windows overlooking the gardens on two sides of the house. There is a walk-in closet, linen closet, dressing room, and a private terrace overlooking the lovely garden on the south side. The primary bathroom has dual vanities and a large tub. Across the hall is a cozy bedroom/study with fireplace, and built-in bookshelves lining all four walls. Another guest bedroom suite is sunny and bright, with ensuite bathroom also featuring vintage Sherle Wagner fixtures and wallpaper. Additional access to the second floor outdoor terrace is at the end of the hallway.  An ample laundry closet completes the second floor.    

There is one gated off-street parking space on the property, with room to expand parking if desired.  A garden utility room is tucked away unobtrusively near the entrance to the Japanese garden. This contemporary style home and tranquil garden oasis are set in the middle of a beautiful and vibrant historic district, blending sympathetically with 19th-century neighbors. Ansonborough is one of Charleston’s most sought-after neighborhoods for several reasons. It is historically high and dry, and provides walking-distance access to all the best of Charleston, including King Street shopping, the Gaillard Auditorium, restaurants and nearby grocery and other stores. This property is a rare jewel in historic downtown Charleston!