Situated at 94 Rutledge Avenue in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, the Isaac Jenkins Mikell House stands as a majestic monument to antebellum elegance and Southern charm. This sprawling estate, owned by Patricia Altschul — the charismatic socialite and beloved personality of Bravo’s Southern Charm — commands attention not only for its breathtaking $15 million valuation but also for its rich history and exquisite design.
Built in the 1850s, the mansion is a classic example of Greek Revival architecture, a style favored by the affluent plantation class in the pre-Civil War South. The exterior is dominated by ten imposing columns, each adorned with finely carved ram’s head capitals that add a distinctive flourish and hint at the home’s grandeur. The sweeping portico provides a stately entrance, evoking the grandeur of ancient Greek temples, and setting the tone for the lavish interiors that lie within.
Stretching over nearly 9,500 square feet, the house boasts ten spacious bedrooms and a multitude of living spaces, designed to host elegant social gatherings or intimate family moments with equal ease. Over the decades, the house has seen transformations — from a public library to subdivided apartments — before being lovingly restored into a private residence that marries historical integrity with modern luxury.
The true magic of the Isaac Jenkins Mikell House lies inside, where Patricia’s impeccable taste is on full display thanks to a restoration masterminded by legendary interior designer Mario Buatta. Known for his signature bold colors and classic yet playful designs, Buatta infused the mansion with life through vibrant apple green walls that brighten the grand rooms. Complementing this vivid backdrop are carefully selected Louis-style furnishings, each piece exuding timeless sophistication and connecting the interior to the home’s historical roots.
Flooring throughout the mansion is painted and decorated in a Victorian style that adds layers of texture and period detail. These floors, along with ornate moldings and elegant fireplaces, create an ambiance that is both stately and inviting. In one of the more intimate rooms, a delicate pink-hued sitting area offers a warm contrast to the grander spaces, providing a cozy retreat that still maintains the home’s overall elegance.
Adding to the home’s historic allure is an extraordinary collection of 18th-century silhouette portraits, including those of iconic American figures like George Washington and Robert E. Lee. These artful profiles adorn the walls, serving as silent witnesses to the history that has passed through these halls, and infusing the home with a palpable sense of legacy and mystery.
In a strategic move in early 2025, Patricia transferred ownership of this architectural gem to her son, Whitney Sudler-Smith, himself a notable producer and cast member on Southern Charm. Despite the official change in title, Patricia remains a vital presence in the home, continuing to live amidst the grandeur she helped restore. This transition was part of a carefully planned estate arrangement aimed at preserving the family legacy and minimizing future tax burdens, but it also ensured that the house remains a vibrant center of social life and Southern elegance.
For fans of Southern Charm and lovers of historic architecture alike, Patricia Altschul’s Isaac Jenkins Mikell House is much more than just a television set — it is a living repository of Southern history, art, and culture. Its blend of grand Greek Revival architecture, sumptuous interiors, priceless artwork, and the fascinating stories woven through its walls make it a captivating $15 million treasure that continues to enchant all who step through its doors.
