Nathaniel Russel House
Location: 51 Meeting Street Charleston, SC
Construction: Circa 1809
Period: Post-revolutionary
Style: Adams
Restoration: Restored to Post Revolution Period
Ownership: Historic Charleston Foundation
What Makes The NRH Special?
From Nathaniel Russell’s initials on
the front balcony to the grand self-supported staircase to the gold leaf
details in the withdrawing room, this house is the expression of wealth. Initially
built by a wealthy merchant, the Historic Foundation of Charleston provided the
resources to preserve and restore this grand home.
The grand staircase was built on a cantilever
system, with each step supporting the next. This enabled the staircase to rise
three stories without the support of the walls.
On the second floor the Drawing Room a
demonstration of symmetry, windows and details, details and details. The
restoration is a testament to the dedication of the Historic Charleston
Foundation. Once covered in layers of monochrome paint, the original colors in
the room’s three dimensional crown trim have been restored.
In 1995 the foundation undertook grand scale research
and restoration effort so that visitors experience the home as the Russell’s
guest would have, with the welcome exception of climate control.
If you live in Charleston and are interested in
wood, plaster, and stone work make an effort Masters of the Building Arts
Festival.
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