Earlier this month, I was invited to enjoy a staycation at the newly re-opened {Aug. 2020} Post House. Like so many, I haven’t traveled much this year, so a mini getaway was calling my name! Sterling and I packed our overnight bags, drove a whole 10 minutes across the Ravenel Bridge and settled in for a one-night stay at the hot, new spot in town. Located in Mt. Pleasant’s historic Old Village neighborhood, Post House is just a hop, skip + jump away from Downtown Charleston. Yet feels like you’re fully immersed in a quaint, family-friendly neighborhood. Some could argue it almost feels like a different town, but I’ve always loved it as an extension of what I love most of historic Charleston. Streets lined with beautiful homes, manicured side gardens, kids riding their bikes down the street – it’s truly a quintessential neighborhood that gives you all the warm fuzzy feels. And at the heart of it all, sits Post House.
Basic Projects Interiors
Built in 1896, 101 Pitt Street has a long-standing history as a neighborhood hub, housing a restaurant and inn for many decades. The space underwent a top-to-bottom renovation, in which the first-floor layout was reimagined by moving the bar to face Pitt Street, while the main dining room moved to the back, open to the outdoor courtyard. Kate Towill served as lead designer for the project, outfitting each space uniquely in stylish and functional antiques, vintage rugs, playful fabrics, local art, archival wallpaper and handcrafted fixtures. Inspired by travels to laid-back, seaside inns around the world, Towill brings both whimsy and character to the beloved building.
Each room is uniquely designed, and independently different. Which is my favorite type of boutique hotel to visit! There’s something so special about staying in a room that’s essentially one-of-a-kind, and always entices me to re-visit said property to experience a different room in future. We stayed in ‘room 2’ which was located directly above the outdoor dining courtyard. A tad loud in the evening {prior to the restaurant closing}, but not something that bothered us. This particular room has widows on almost every wall, making you almost feel like you’re in a luxurious treehouse of sorts! I loved the morning light poring through the sheer curtains in the morning. Blackout curtains are an option to pull back for that seeking an alarm clock wake up call, but I personally enjoy waking up to the natural sunlight.
I also had the opportunity to poke around one of the other rooms {where these interior images were taken} and absolutely fell in love with the wallpaper, texture and wood color combination. Kate certainly outdid herself on this project. From paint colors to textiles, the property is perfection inside and out.
Post House Restaurant
The restaurant is a casual, lively, and family-friendly spot serving simple and seasonal contemporary American food. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a small check-in stand {which also serves as the Inn check-in} situated near the bar and casual in-bar dining. This small, semi-sectioned off room has a warm and cozy feel to it. With soft, natural wood furniture and warm lighting; it’s the perfect spot to order a morning tea or sip an evening beverage. The wood bar spans an entire wall, paired with rich turquoise chairs – serving up absolutely delicious cocktails. This is one spot I’d personally pick a cocktail over wine. Can’t resist a well made cocktail when the menu looks this good. Guests can also enjoy a meal in the cozy back dining room, or under a striped awning in the outdoor courtyard.
In terms of food – influenced by local fare, Executive Chef Evan Gaudreau {previously at Renzo} has crafted a menu that features an array of classic dishes, raw bar options, fresh pastas, as well as local seafood. I’ve had the opportunity to dine at the restaurant twice since it opened, and can say without a doubt, the fried polenta is my favorite item on the menu. It’s absolute perfection. Still haven’t tried the classic bar-back cheeseburger {have heard it’s delish}, but really love the butterbean burger! Great take on a vegetarian option.
What to do in Mt. Pleasant
While I’m partial to Downtown Charleston, whether you’re local or visiting, Mt. Pleasant has everything you could ever need and more! But here are a few of my favorite spots to check out if you find yourself in the area.
Elizabeth Stuart Design | An absolute must visit. Elizabeth Stuart is a local plant + flower nursery, along with a well curated gift/interiors shop. The selection primarily stems from European flare {including imports from France + Italy}, and while you may not be able to bring an olive tree home with you, it’s worth a walk-thru just to take it all in. I love grabbing a tea and just walking the grounds. I swear it feels more like a garden stroll then a store.
Charleston Artist Collective | Great spot to check out an array for local Charleston artists! You’ll find a mix of original + print work at all price points and sizes. Many of which will fit in your suitcase if you’re looking for a little piece of Charleston to take back home.
Brown Fox Coffee | Hands down the best chai tea latte in town! This little walk-up coffee stand is a gem. Sadly there’s no drive-thru, but the line is always worth the wait for a hot cup of jo or freshly baked treat.
image by Marni Rothschild Durlach
