Luxurious Cottage Tucked into the Heart of Summerville’s Historic District

Tucked into the heart of the historic district of Summerville, 108 Rutherford Street offers a rare blend of history, scale, and walkable lifestyle. Set on an expansive .93-acre lot, this property lives like a private garden estate just moments from Azalea Park and the shops and dining that define downtown Summerville. According to the Summerville Journal Scene, this residence is recognized as a plantation-style cottage with a porch wrapping three sides–an architectural detail that immediately sets the tone for slow mornings and shaded afternoons. It also holds the distinction of being stop #3 on the local walking tour of historic homes, quietly placing it among the town’s most notable properties. Believed to have been built around 1871 by Charleston merchant William Carrington, the home reflects a time when craftsmanship and proportion mattered. Inside, wide heart of pine floors run throughout, and soaring ceilings–many reaching approximately 14 feet–create an airy, grounded feel that is difficult to replicate today. The main home offers two bedrooms, a welcoming living room, dining room, kitchen, and a light-filled sunroom. The primary suite is generously sized, complete with a large bathroom and an oversized closet. A metal roof adds long-term durability while respecting the home’s character.
The lower level has been enclosed to provide functional space for a workshop, storage, and laundry, offering flexibility without compromising the integrity of the main living areas. Just beyond the main residence, a detached brick cottage expands the possibilities. With two bedrooms, a full bath, kitchen, and living area, it serves equally well as a guest house, private quarters, or income-producing opportunity. The grounds are a defining feature. Mature trees and established plantings frame the nearly acre-sized lot, creating a sense of privacy and permanence rarely found this close to town. There’s room here–to gather, to garden, or simply to enjoy the setting. Importantly, while rich in history, the home is not on the national historic registry. That distinction allows for greater flexibility in how the property can be adapted, updated, or reimagined to suit modern living while still honoring its past. This is the kind of property that doesn’t just check boxes–it tells a story, and invites the next chapter to be written.