From the stately elegance of the Georgian era to the exuberant eclecticism of the twenty-first century, the houses of Charleston, South Carolina are defined by great architecture and elegant design. "Timeless Charleston: Four Centuries of Style" offers an insider's view of the beautiful houses, gardens, and decorative arts that comprise this city's unique charm.This beautifully illustrated volume opens with an overview of Charleston's decorative arts and architecture, followed by a section entitled 'Elements of Charleston Style', describing the colors, textiles, decorative objects, and textures essential to the Charleston interior. 'Period Charleston' explores six great houses that illustrate the traditional styles associated with the city, from Georgian to late Victorian. 'Eclectic Charleston' features six houses that demonstrate the eclectic approach to design that grew out of the post-Civil War era and continues to flourish today. Finally, 'Quintessential Charleston' defines the values that infuse Charleston style, from hospitality to romance. This book concludes with a source guide, listing interior designers, antique stores, and manufacturers of fine reproductions.