208 Sumter Avenue, Summerville, SC 29483 $2,990,000
At about 6,399 square feet, 208 Sumter Avenue is the largest home for sale in the Historic District neighborhood of Summerville (by total heated square feet).
Bedrooms 6
Full Bathrooms 5
SqFt 6,399
Updated 05/23/2025
Half Bathrooms 2
Price/SqFt $467
![]() ![]() 208 Sumter Avenue, Summerville, SC 29483 $2,990,000 |
General Features click to collapse contents
Category Residential
Style Traditional,Victorian
Stories 3
Lot Description 1 - 2 Acres,Level
County Dorchester
City Summerville
Subdivision Historic District
MLS number 24031090 (Active)
Address 208 Sumter Avenue, Summerville, SC 29483 US
Listing Provided by The Boulevard Company
Sale Type Not an Auction
MLS Area 63 - Summerville/Ridgeville
Description : As seen in the Rob report, Wall Street Journal, and Post and Courier. click to expand contents
As seen in the Rob report, Wall Street Journal, and Post and Courier.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 unmatchedlifestyle 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.
Exterior Features click to expand contents
Exterior See Remarks,Wood Siding
Foundation Crawl Space
Roof Metal
Water / Sewer Public Sewer
Misc. Exterior Lawn Irrigation,Rain Gutters,Lighting,Stoop,In Ground
Interior Features click to expand contents
Fireplace Bedroom,Den,Dining Room,Family Room,Living Room,Three +
Flooring Carpet,Ceramic Tile,Marble,Stone,Wood
Master Bedroom Garden Tub/Shower Combo,Multiple Closets,Outside Access,Sitting Room,Walk-In Closet(s)
Cooling Central Air
Heating Electric
Amenities click to expand contents
• Club Membership Available
• Dog Park
• Elevators
• RV Parking
• RV/Boat Storage
• Storage
• Tennis Court(s)
• Trash
• Walk/Jog Trails
Schools click to expand contents
Elementary School
Summerville
Summerville
Middle School
Alston
Alston
High School
Summerville
Summerville
