Colonial Charleston embodied a diverse array of architecture in keeping with the broad trans-Atlantic English tradition of provincial ports and market towns, including row houses and large Georgian town houses.
Unique to the city was the Single House plan first appearing in the early 18th century, and gradually becoming the prevalent floor plan for historic houses of 19th century Antebellum Charleston. While taking on the visual character of various period architectural styles, it proved remarkably adaptable in its own right and helped residents endure hot and humid summers with long side piazzas and cross-ventilation design.
Its narrow, gable end facing the street, the typical layout was one room in width and two rooms in depth divided by a central stair hall. The evolution of the Charleston Single House came about because of narrow urban lots first laid out in 1680 and incorporated into the city master plan of 1725.
While the “front door” appears on the street side, it only opens onto the piazza; the actual building entryway being located on side of the house.
