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Find Lighting Fixtures For Any Home at Our
Lighting Store Showroom Near Mount Pleasant, SC
The importance of great lighting in a home cannot be understated. It can brighten up a room and make it feel more open, while bad lighting can make a space feel dark and unwelcoming. It can make a room feel more inviting and more useful, melding aesthetics with function to create a welcoming and comforting glow. It helps you see what you're doing around the house, from cooking dinner to playing with your children. With the right application, lighting can help reduce eye strain and fatigue. Great lighting designs can even increase the value of your home, transforming it into an alluring oasis that is just right for the South Carolina market.
Simply put, lighting makes your life and your home better, whether you're a first-time homebuyer, an interior designer, or a home builder. But finding a reliable lighting store in Mount Pleasant, SC, where you can purchase lighting fixtures and receive expert lighting advice? That can be complicated. Fortunately, Lowcountry Lighting Studio makes it easy to find great lighting locally.
From chandeliers and scones to ceiling fans and gas lanterns, we keep the most popular designs in stock for both indoor and outdoor purposes. The best part? You can see and touch all that we have to offer right from our expansive showroom in Charleston, making you a truly enlightened consumer.
Service Areas
We Take Pride in Lighting the Lowcountry
At Lowcountry Lighting Studio, we believe that lighting is about more than fancy fixtures. It's what brings your personal treasures to life, brightens your daily tasks, and creates a warm and inviting environment to live, work, and play. With years of experience providing dependable lighting services to South Carolina, we are proud to be the ultimate resource for lighting value, design, and selection in the Lowcountry.
We've built our reputation on stellar customer service and take pride in offering exceptional design services provided by a team of experts who are dedicated to bringing your vision to life. If you're in search of expert product specialists, an onsite showroom, and a huge selection of today's most popular lighting choices, look no further than Lowcountry Lighting Studio.
Customers keep coming back to our lighting showroom because we are dedicated to providing high-quality services, such as:
- Indoor Lighting
- Outdoor Lighting
- Lighting Design
- Lighting Product Sales
- In-Home Consultations with a Lighting Specialist
- Complimentary Local Delivery
- Charleston's Top Choice for Lighting Quality, Knowledge, and Customer Service
Who We Serve
Lowcountry Lighting Studio is proud to serve clients from all walks of life who need quality lighting fixtures. Whether you're renovating your space or you're a home builder looking for a trusted partner, you'll find lots to love at our lighting store in Mount Pleasant, SC.
Homeowners
Need to upgrade a single room in your home? Looking for a comprehensive home electrical plan? Don't know where to start on your interior or exterior lighting journey? Our team of experts is here for you. To help us provide you with the best service possible, bring the following info along when you visit our showroom in Charleston:
- Room Dimensions
- Furniture Dimensions
- House Plans (If Available)
- Current or Desired Paint Colors
- Current or Desired Countertop and Island Colors and Materials
- Height of Ceilings
- Kitchen and Cabinet Hardware and Finishes
- An Idea of Your Desired Lighting Fixtures
Realtors
When purchasing a new home, it's common for buyers to make aesthetic and practical changes inside and out. That's where Lowcountry Lighting Studio comes into play as a trusted lighting showroom for both you and your clients. We understand that builders, designers, and realtors all share the same goal of making their clients' houses feel like home. That's why we offer a realtor program tailored exclusively to registered agents.
With a $250 client reservation fee, you can book appointments at our studio to meet with our lighting specialists and designers. This fee will also be applied to any purchases made by your client. On top of that, you'll receive lighting books to showcase new options, special discounts to pass along to your clients, and much more. If you and your client are looking for reliable guidance for home lighting design, you're in the right place.
Designers
At Lowcountry Lighting Studio, we value our relationship with designers. We understand the importance of their client's projects and the trust they place in designers to bring their vision to life. Lighting plays a significant role in any design project, yet retailers do not always appreciate designers. To address this common issue, LLS has created a designer program that not only simplifies the selection process but also offers an enjoyable experience for clients.
As a registered member of our "Lowcountry Lighting Studio Designer Program," you'll enjoy several perks, including designer pricing, exclusive updates on new products and upcoming events, a waived $250 reservation fee with one of our lighting specialists, and much more. Our "Lighting Loft" is one of our favorite features, which you can reserve as a registered designer. This space elevates the selection process for you and your clients, making it both easy and fun to find modern, desirable lighting fixtures in Mount Pleasant, SC.
Builders, Contractors, & Architects
At Lowcountry Lighting Studio, we bring together our extensive expertise in construction and lighting to help you navigate the complex process of completing your projects. Our aim is to facilitate seamless communication between you and your clients, supporting you every step of the way from initial concept to final completion.
To achieve this, we offer a range of trustworthy lighting services for builders, contractors, and architects, including:
- Electrical Design and Layout
- Rough-In
- Decorative Selection of Lighting
- Decorative Selection of Mirrors
- Landscape
- LED Lighting for Specialty Needs
- Discounted Builder Pricing
- Local Deliveries
- Lighting Packets for Clients
- Detailed and Ongoing Communication
Need to upgrade a single room in your home? Looking for a comprehensive home electrical plan? Don't know where to start on your interior or exterior lighting journey? Our team of experts is here for you. To help us provide you with the best service possible, bring the following info along when you visit our showroom in Charleston:
- Room Dimensions
- Furniture Dimensions
- House Plans (If Available)
- Current or Desired Paint Colors
- Current or Desired Countertop and Island Colors and Materials
- Height of Ceilings
- Kitchen and Cabinet Hardware and Finishes
- An Idea of Your Desired Lighting Fixtures
When purchasing a new home, it's common for buyers to make aesthetic and practical changes inside and out. That's where Lowcountry Lighting Studio comes into play as a trusted lighting showroom for both you and your clients. We understand that builders, designers, and realtors all share the same goal of making their clients' houses feel like home. That's why we offer a realtor program tailored exclusively to registered agents.
With a $250 client reservation fee, you can book appointments at our studio to meet with our lighting specialists and designers. This fee will also be applied to any purchases made by your client. On top of that, you'll receive lighting books to showcase new options, special discounts to pass along to your clients, and much more. If you and your client are looking for reliable guidance for home lighting design, you're in the right place.
At Lowcountry Lighting Studio, we value our relationship with designers. We understand the importance of their client's projects and the trust they place in designers to bring their vision to life. Lighting plays a significant role in any design project, yet retailers do not always appreciate designers. To address this common issue, LLS has created a designer program that not only simplifies the selection process but also offers an enjoyable experience for clients.
As a registered member of our "Lowcountry Lighting Studio Designer Program," you'll enjoy several perks, including designer pricing, exclusive updates on new products and upcoming events, a waived $250 reservation fee with one of our lighting specialists, and much more. Our "Lighting Loft" is one of our favorite features, which you can reserve as a registered designer. This space elevates the selection process for you and your clients, making it both easy and fun to find modern, desirable lighting fixtures in Mount Pleasant, SC.
At Lowcountry Lighting Studio, we bring together our extensive expertise in construction and lighting to help you navigate the complex process of completing your projects. Our aim is to facilitate seamless communication between you and your clients, supporting you every step of the way from initial concept to final completion.
To achieve this, we offer a range of trustworthy lighting services for builders, contractors, and architects, including:
- Electrical Design and Layout
- Rough-In
- Decorative Selection of Lighting
- Decorative Selection of Mirrors
- Landscape
- LED Lighting for Specialty Needs
- Discounted Builder Pricing
- Local Deliveries
- Lighting Packets for Clients
- Detailed and Ongoing Communication
Popular Lighting Fixtures from Our Lighting Store in Mount Pleasant, SC
As one of South Carolina's premier lighting showrooms, LLS keeps a keen eye on the types of lighting fixtures and design choices that customers love - both locally and across the country. Here are just a few of the most popular types of lighting fixtures you can find at our lighting showroom.
Gas Lanterns
When designing or refreshing a modern structure, it's important to choose the appropriate outdoor lighting that complements the overall aesthetic. It's easy to overlook gas lanterns because they're often associated with traditional or old-world styles.
However, there are gas lantern designs that are perfect for modern or transitional style homes, such as Coppersmith +, Primo +, and Legendary Lighting models. These lanterns have sleek and geometric designs ideal for contemporary gas lighting. In addition, you'll find a variety of finishes to enhance your selection further. For a more modern look, a powder-coated black finish is recommended, while copper and patina finishes work best for transitional gas lighting.
Chandeliers
Chandeliers often possess intricate designs that exude beauty and allure, even in the absence of light. Conversely, lamps can appear dull and uninspiring when turned off, only serving to add vibrancy and warmth when they are illuminated. Introducing a striking and unique chandelier into a large and spacious room can bring life and character to the space.
These exquisite pieces of art can act as the focal point of the room, keeping the area from appearing lifeless and uninteresting. With a simple chandelier, your home can be transformed into an unforgettable space, exuding an air of elegance that your neighbors will be jealous of. Of course, mid-size and mini chandeliers are fantastic, too, and work very well for adding a special touch to a relatively small space, like a dining room or breakfast cove.
Whether you're looking for a grand, traditional chandelier from Uttermost or a trendy, modern piece from George Kovacs, we've got the styles and finishes you're craving at our lighting showroom in Mount Pleasant, SC.
Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are making a major comeback in many South Carolina homes. Unlike the bland, monotone fans found in your college dorm room, today's ceiling fans are attractive and stylish. At Lowcountry Lighting Studio, you'll find a wide selection of stylish ceiling fans made with on-trend materials such as polished nickel and exotic wood.
These high-quality fans typically offer various finish and light kit options, as well as remote controls. Some models even feature carved ceiling medallions that add texture and intrigue. You can choose from a range of sizes and styles to match your unique interior design, including traditional models with wood or bronze finishes, modern units in brushed metal, or tropical fans with blades resembling banana leaves.
From Fanimation to Hinkley and just about every brand in between, there's a ceiling fan for every taste at LLS.
Scones
Wall sconces are a popular addition to any room, regardless of interior design style. They are discreet and versatile, making them a perfect fit for any space in your home. If you're looking to create a soft and welcoming atmosphere in your entryway or a warm and cozy ambiance in your bedroom, wall sconces are the perfect solution.
At Lowcountry Lighting Studio, we offer a wide variety of wall scone options, from products with brass and antique finishes to scones with Mid-Century Modern flair.
Timeless Tips for Beautiful Interior Lighting
It might sound cliche, but having a great interior lighting design for your home is everything. When you get it right, you can significantly enhance the overall look and feel of your home. But when styles and design elements clash with one another or lack true functionality, it can have a negative effect.
Keep these tips in mind to maximize the ambiance and mood of your home.
To ensure that every room in your home is well-lit and functional, having a mixture of lighting at different levels is important. For instance, in your kitchen, you can have lighting units above your island and task lighting underneath your cabinetry. Similarly, in your living room, you can have ceiling units with table lamps placed around the perimeter of the room. By combining lighting in this way, you can create a more functional and comfortable living space.
It's essential to know your ceiling height before selecting hanging light fixtures. Some light fixtures come with adjustable cables or rods, while others do not. You don't want to find yourself with a light that hangs either too low or too high. As a general rule, a light should hang about 12 to 20 inches below a standard 8-foot ceiling. For every additional foot of ceiling height, add 3 inches to the hanging length of the light. Knowing these measurements will help you get the perfect hanging light fixtures for your home.
When you visit our showroom to view lighting fixtures in Mount Pleasant, SC, keep in mind that different rooms have different functions and focal points. Generally speaking, your lighting design should reflect the purpose of the room.
For instance, in your living room, consider installing indirect lighting to create a more relaxed atmosphere. You may also want to add tabletop lamps next to a sofa or armchair to further enhance the ambiance. If the room has high ceilings, it would be helpful to combine lighting on the ceiling and walls, which will help to give the room a more calming feel. This will also prevent visitors from feeling lost in a large open space.
For entryways into your home, try having lights installed along the walls to make coming and going safe day and night. For a unique effect, combine architectural lighting with recessed lighting or even a trendy ceiling light, depending on the shape, size, and design of your entryway.
Adding new pendant lighting to your home can be an expensive and inconvenient process, especially if you don't want to change your electrical setup. However, you can consider using cord swags as a stylish solution. You can loosely swag them over a bar or a hook, or you can securely attach the cord tight to the ceiling for an industrial look. This is a great way to add a touch of style and ambiance to your home without breaking the bank.
One of the most common questions we're asked at Lowcountry Light Studio is how to begin designing or renovating a home's lighting. While every approach will be different depending on your home, budget, and time, one of the best ways to start is to think about recessed and exposed lighting.
Recessed lighting, as the name suggests, is a lighting unit that is designed to be hidden, so the light source is the only visible component. This is highly practical for modern, clean interiors where architectural details are unnecessary. Additionally, recessed lighting is ideal for homes with low ceilings, where hanging light fixtures may not be suitable.
Exposed lighting, by contrast, utilizes distinct lighting units with prominent architectural details. This type of lighting blends well with traditional and even rustic vibes. If you are planning to have recessed or exposed lighting installed in your home, it's a good idea to make this decision early on, as it can affect your builder or electrician's plans.
When choosing lighting for your space, be sure to consider the type of lightbulb you're using, not just the lighting fixture. There are different bulb options, such as halogen, compact fluorescent, and LED bulbs, which come in varying warm or cool hues. Deciding on your desired glow is ultimately going to be a personal choice, much like your home's wall color. But using bulbs that compliment your home's aesthetic and color scheme is never a bad idea.
As a general rule, if your walls have cool tones, using a warm lightbulb can help to create a more inviting atmosphere. Conversely, if you have a dark space, a cooler glow might be necessary to brighten it up.
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Illuminating the Path to Impeccable Lighting in Your Home
Ready to transform your home's lighting from basic and bland to memorable and distinct? Trends will come and go, but expertise and experience are always in fashion. That's what you get with Lowcountry Lighting Studio - one of The Palmetto State's most reliable and innovative lighting showrooms. Whether you're a builder, architect, realtor, or homeowner, our team is ready to help you choose the lighting design of your dreams. Contact our lighting store in Mount Pleasant, SC, today to reserve an appointment in our showroom soon.
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Latest News in Mount Pleasant, SC
Scene Calendar: Charleston area events April 4-10
Amber McDadehttps://www.postandcourier.com/charleston_scene/scene-calendar-charleston-area-events-april-4-10/article_ff91320e-ed0a-11ee-b64a-d781176a2875.html
EDITOR’S NOTE: To submit an event, go to postandcourier.com/calendar.Thursday Revitalizing the Salon with Julie Wheat and Douglas BalentineWhat: Join in to hear a discussion moderated by Nicki Clendening between Julie Wheat and Douglas Balentine as they explore their experience at the Chateau Orquevaux artist residency in France. View the work they created and photos of the surrounding estate and small village nearby...
EDITOR’S NOTE: To submit an event, go to postandcourier.com/calendar.
Thursday
Revitalizing the Salon with Julie Wheat and Douglas Balentine
What: Join in to hear a discussion moderated by Nicki Clendening between Julie Wheat and Douglas Balentine as they explore their experience at the Chateau Orquevaux artist residency in France. View the work they created and photos of the surrounding estate and small village nearby.
When: 6 p.m. April 4
Where: The Charleston Library Society, 164 King St., Charleston
Price: $15 non-members, $10 members
More Info: tinyurl.com/5pj28kh5
'The Roommate'
What: PURE Theatre announces the South Carolina premiere of Jen Silverman’s comedy two-hander, "The Roommate." The play is a dark comedy about what it takes to reroute your life — and what happens when the wheels come off.
When: 7:30 p.m. April 4-27
Where: Cannon Street Arts Center, 134 Cannon St., Charleston
Price: $47-$53
More Info: 843-723-4444, info@puretheatre.org, puretheatre.org
Friday
Teen Workshop: Ancient Engineering
What: Attempt to build your own miniature catapult, craft a chariot and embrace your inner Leonardo da Vinci to create a simple bridge capable of great strength. Teen Workshops offer an opportunity to engage with a variety of topics including history, the natural world and STEAM principles. For ages 13-17. Reservations required.
When: 10 a.m. April 5
Where: The Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St., Charleston
Price: $15 non-members, $10 members
More Info: 843-722-2996 ext. 236, ereagan@charlestonmuseum.org, tinyurl.com/39dvbn7e
2024 Kiawah Art & House Tour
What: Self-guided tours of five homes, each featuring unique architecture, artwork and spectacular views. All proceeds fund literary, visual and musical arts programs for schoolchildren on Johns and Wadmalaw islands.
When: 1-5 p.m. April 5
Where: First National Bank, Freshfields Village, 398 Freshfields Drive, Kiawah Island
Price: $75
More Info: tix@kiawahartsetc.org, kiawahartsetc.org/art-and-house-tour/art-homes-tour
'Lowcountry Blues' Opening Reception
What: The Charleston Artist Guild Gallery is pleased to present "Lowcountry Blues," an exhibition by Julie Furlong. Furlong’s paintings depict the essence of the Lowcountry: a harmonious blend of tranquility, elegance and natural splendor. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artist.
When: 5-8 p.m. April 5
Where: Charleston Artist Guild Gallery, 160 E. Bay St., Charleston
Price: Free
More Info: 843-814-5585, danielsdesigns@gmail.com, tinyurl.com/26yka6mj
'Jazz it Up' Open House
What: Celebrate art inspired by music featuring five artists in the cooperative gallery. The works of Valerie Lamott, Laurie Prophater, Luann Rosenzweig, Susan Livingston and Tanya Craig will be spotlighted this month. Jazz up your style with art to wear, jewelry and home decor.
When: 5-8 p.m. April 5
Where: Charleston Crafts Gallery, 140 East Bay St., Suite D, Charleston
Price: Free
More Info: 713-553-7107, njwphd@gmail.com, charlestoncraftsgallery.com/blog
First Cut is the Deepest: A '90s Tribute Show
What: Homegrown Charleston-based music and lifestyle blog Extra Chill is set to make its Music Farm debut on the eve of the Cooper River Bridge Run. The show will feature an all-local lineup performing a mashup-style '90s tribute.
When: 8 p.m. April 5
Where: Music Farm, 32 Ann St., Charleston
Price: $12 advance, $15 day-of
More Info: tinyurl.com/2ah2akvr
Saturday
Keys & Conversations: West African Drumming
What: Check out the launch of the IAAM summer Keys & Conversations programming, providing youth and families the opportunity to witness performances and engage with musicians in specialized conversations on a variety of musical topics. The inaugural program features a West African drumming experience presented by the Amen-Ra Drummers. Museum entry tickets are not included in event program pricing and will need to be purchased separately.
When: 4-5 p.m. April 6
Where: International African American Museum, 14 Wharfside St., Charleston
Price: $20 adults, $10 age 6-16
More Info: tinyurl.com/mtm468rf
Design from your Parks: A South Carolina Spring
What: This gardening talk will focus on the perennial border and seasonal planting. This presentation will go through the perennials and bulbs planted in this location to highlight how you can add seasonal color from February through late fall. This quarterly series teaches homeowners how to design beautiful Lowcountry gardens while highlighting the seasonal beauty of the parks.
When: Noon April 6
Where: Rose Pavilion, Hampton Park, 30 Mary Murray Drive, Charleston
Price: $35
More Info: 843-724-5003, tinyurl.com/ytcn6emh
Artist Talk: Spandita Malik
What: The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art invites locals and visitors to dive deeply into the work behind the current exhibition "Meshes of Resistance" with renowned artist Spandita Malik.
When: 2 p.m. April 6
Where: The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, 161 Calhoun St., Charleston
Price: Free
More Info: tinyurl.com/5xhc8hjs
100 Years of 'Rhapsody in Blue'
What: Join the Charleston Symphony to celebrate this milestone anniversary of Gershwin’s "Rhapsody in Blue," a groundbreaking masterpiece that forever changed the landscape of music when it debuted 100 years ago. Yuriy Bekker will lead the orchestra and soloists with works by George Gershwin, Leonard Bernstein, Frank Sinatra and more.
When: 7:30 p.m. April 6
Where: Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St., Charleston
Price: $28.75+
More Info: 843-723-7528, info@charlestonsymphony.org, tinyurl.com/4ynfwtcv
Sunday
Salon Series
What: The Salon Series concludes with a focus on music for piano and strings.
When: 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. April 7
Where: South Carolina Society Hall, 72 Meeting St., Charleston
Price: $40-$50
More Info: 843-763-4941, tinyurl.com/323bfn7v
Ranky Tanky
What: Ranky Tanky (a Gullah phrase for "get funky") are five lifelong friends from Charleston who have established themselves as passionate global ambassadors for their local culture and community, helping to faithfully preserve the traditions originated by African Americans in the coastal South during slavery that are kept alive through the present day.
When: 7 p.m. April 7
Where: Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St., Charleston
Price: $30.42+
More Info: 843-724-5212, gaillardcenter.org/events/ranky-tanky
Monday
Total Solar Eclipse on the Water
What: Get ready to witness the solar eclipse on the water while cruising around historic downtown Charleston.
When: 2-5 p.m. April 8
Where: The Carolina Girl Yacht, 2408 Maybank Highway, Johns Island
Price: $60
More Info: tinyurl.com/96c3vmkw
The Post and Courier Travel: Morocco Launch Party
What: The Post and Courier Travel invites you to the launch event for our upcoming journey to Morocco, departing on Oct. 14, 2024. Join in for an exciting evening to get to know your trip guide, Editor-in-Chief Autumn Phillips, as well as all the details of this adventure. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres will be provided.
When: 6 p.m. April 8
Where: The Charleston Library Society, 164 King St., Charleston
Price: Free
More Info: tinyurl.com/y2wsat34
Tuesday
Mount Pleasant Farmers Market
What: This weekly market, founded in 1998, features vendors selling local farm-fresh produce, meats, sauces, baked goods and other specialty foods, as well as prepared food vendors for those looking for a unique meal.
When: 3:30-7 p.m. every Tuesday April through September
Where: Moultrie Middle School, 645 Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant
Price: Free
More Info: 843-709-1150, events@tompsc.com, tinyurl.com/bddyhzyw
Cocktails for a Cause
What: Enjoy craft cocktails in support of the Warrior Surf Foundation. The event will include light hors d'oeuvres, drinks from the cash bar and a surfboard auction. Fifty percent of proceeds go directly to WSF, an organization working to provide free surf therapy, wellness coaching, yoga and community to veterans struggling with mental health issues.
When: 6-8 p.m. April 9
Where: Harbour Club at WestEdge, 22 Westedge St., Suite 700, Charleston
Price: $30
More Info: tinyurl.com/4y3xvuuf
Wednesday
Now Open!
What: The Post and Courier’s food section is giving avid eaters the first crack at experiencing Charleston’s newest dining destinations. Featured restaurants providing samples in a taste-around format include Costa, Condado, Dulce, The James, Lost Isle and more.
When: 6-8 p.m. April 10
Where: The Porter Room, Holy City Brewing, 1021 Aragon Ave., North Charleston
Price: $35
More Info: tickets.postandcourier.com/e/now-open-2025
Theresa Caputo
What: For more than a decade, Theresa Caputo — known as the Long Island Medium and star of the new Lifetime series "Raising Spirits" — has touched the lives of millions, comforting supporters when they need it most.
When: 7:30 p.m. April 10
Where: North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center, 5001 Coliseum Drive, North Charleston
Price: $49.75+
More Info: tinyurl.com/bdeswerp
Get a weekly list of tips on pop-ups, last minute tickets and little-known experiences hand-selected by our newsroom in your inbox each Thursday.
Mount Pleasant to expand attainable housing options
Jordan Cioppahttps://www.counton2.com/news/mount-pleasant-to-expand-attainable-housing-options/
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) – Twelve acres of land along Park Avenue Boulevard in Mount Pleasant could soon be the site of a proposed attainable housing complex.“It is in the perfect place in Mount Pleasant ‘cause there’s six schools around there, t...
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) – Twelve acres of land along Park Avenue Boulevard in Mount Pleasant could soon be the site of a proposed attainable housing complex.
“It is in the perfect place in Mount Pleasant ‘cause there’s six schools around there, two fire stations, we’re getting ready to build a public services facility at Lieben Road, the hospital is there, and major retailers like Costco,” explained Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie.
Next week town council will vote on the first reading of amending the Carolina Park Planned Development document to allow for attainable housing at that location.
The mayor said the proposed homes will be in the $300-400,000 price range and will be available for purchase, not rent. To qualify, he said future homeowners will need to fall within a certain percentage of the area median income.
“This is our first responders, our teachers, our healthcare workers. And to be a healthy and complete community, we need to welcome people like that instead of excluding them by the $1 million average home sale price we had last month,” Mayor Haynie said.
The parcel was purchased by Seacoast Church years ago for a second Mount Pleasant campus, but Glenn Wood, the administrator for the church, said they realized it wasn’t the right fit.
After receiving multiple offers, he said they decided to sell it to an attainable housing developer.
“We just feel like it’s a great opportunity for the town to be able to have housing that teachers, fire departments, nurses, you know and honestly even our staff ‘cause some of our staff has to live outside of Mount Pleasant and commute in just because of the cost of real estate,” Wood said. “And so, its an opportunity, we felt like for the town to be able to have some attainable housing and you know I think it’s a great use of the land and a great opportunity.
Prosperity Builders, the developer of the project, already has another attainable housing project in Mount Pleasant called Gregorie Ferry Towns.
Mayor Haynie said if the plan passes the necessary steps, they could break ground as soon as the summer.
$2.4B deal buys 3 South Carolina hospitals, including Mount Pleasant facility
Charleston Businesshttps://charlestonbusiness.com/2-4b-deal-buys-3-south-carolina-hospitals-including-mount-pleasant-facility/
Three area hospitals have been sold in a $2.4 billion deal to North Carolina-based Novant Health by the previous owner, Tenet Healthcare of Dallas, Texas.The sale of East Cooper Medical Center in Mount Pleasant, Hilton Head Hospital in Hilton Head and Coastal Carolina Hospital in Hardeeville includes the associated physician clinics and other operations, according to a news release from Novant Health.“We are beyond thrilled to welcome our new team members and grow our presence in South Carolina,” said Carl S. Armato...
Three area hospitals have been sold in a $2.4 billion deal to North Carolina-based Novant Health by the previous owner, Tenet Healthcare of Dallas, Texas.
The sale of East Cooper Medical Center in Mount Pleasant, Hilton Head Hospital in Hilton Head and Coastal Carolina Hospital in Hardeeville includes the associated physician clinics and other operations, according to a news release from Novant Health.
“We are beyond thrilled to welcome our new team members and grow our presence in South Carolina,” said Carl S. Armato, president and CEO, Novant Health, which is headquartered in Winston-Salem. “Novant Health’s long-term vision is to transform the health and wellness of these communities through expanded specialty services and clinical expertise. We are energized and united behind our cause to create a healthier future together by building connections with patients and clinicians in coastal South Carolina.”
The East Cooper Medical Center includes 15 physician clinics. Hilton Head Hospital includes the Bluffton Okatie Outpatient Center and 12 physician clinics. Coastal Carolina Hospital in Jasper County includes the Tidewatch Free-Standing Emergency Department in Bluffton, according to the news release.
Novant Health said continuity of care is a priority and appointments and procedures will continue as scheduled during the transition period. “We are working closely with our new Novant Health team members to ensure a seamless transition for patients and team members,” Joel Taylor, market CEO of Hilton Head Regional Healthcare, said in the release. “We are eager to move forward together in support of our teams and know decisions will be made with our community’s needs at the forefront.”
“There’s a lot to be excited about when planning for our future,” Tyler Sherrill, CEO of East Cooper Medical Center, said in the release. “Novant Health is known for elevating clinician leadership to provide patients with a trusted health care experience through world-class technology, personal connections and convenient access to care.”
Tenet Health also owns a cluster of imaging centers and urgent care clinics in York, Rock Hill and Fort Mill, but those South Carolina properties were not part of the deal for the coastal hospitals.
“We understand that taking care of our patients starts with taking care of our people, so I’m delighted to join a leadership team that strives to not only be a healthc are provider of choice but also an employer of choice,” Ryan Lee, CEO of Coastal Carolina Hospital, said in the release. “I look forward to expanding the resources available to our team.”
Novant Health supports health and wellness programs in the community, including health education/screenings, community health workers and mobile cruisers. Each year, Novant Health provides hundreds of programs that serve patients, neighbors and some of their communities’ most vulnerable citizens, the company said in the release.
The Novant Health network consists of more than 1,900 physicians and more than 38,000 team members who provide care at more than 800 locations, the release said.
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Mount Pleasant: still as popular as ever
Lisa Iannucci Special to The Post and Courierhttps://www.postandcourier.com/mount-pleasant-still-as-popular-as-ever/article_14e64d48-dbdf-11ee-b75e-5307448112e5.html
When you’re looking for a great place to live along the South Carolina coast, there are many wonderful places to choose from, from Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Summerville to Hilton Head. But one place says what it’s like to live there right in the name—Mount Pleasant. Just travel over one bridge from historic Charleston to arrive in Mount Pleasant, and you’ll be living near the beach in an area that has exploded in popularity.Owen Tyler, managing broker and broker in charge at The Cassina Group, explains that...
When you’re looking for a great place to live along the South Carolina coast, there are many wonderful places to choose from, from Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Summerville to Hilton Head. But one place says what it’s like to live there right in the name—Mount Pleasant. Just travel over one bridge from historic Charleston to arrive in Mount Pleasant, and you’ll be living near the beach in an area that has exploded in popularity.
Owen Tyler, managing broker and broker in charge at The Cassina Group, explains that people gravitate to Mount Pleasant for quality of life. “Mount Pleasant has good schools, lots of shopping, green space, and restaurants; those things top the list of today’s buyers,” said Tyler. “Close proximity to the area’s beaches and historic downtown is also an advantage.”
There are approximately 97,000 residents living in Mount Pleasant, and Cheryll Woods-Flowers is proudly one of them. She has lived in Mount Pleasant her entire life. “I feel very blessed,” said Woods-Flowers, MSA Certified Agent Advantage Specialist, Cartus Broker Network. “If I didn’t live here, I would likely sacrifice to be here, likely buying less square footage to do so.”
The price is right … and high
However, it’s no secret that the cost of buying a home in Mount Pleasant can run a bit high. “Mount Pleasant has a variety of housing options, but affordability is an issue we face throughout the Lowcountry,” said Tyler. “Single-family attached properties start in the low $300s, but the average residential property (attached and detached) in Mount Pleasant sells for $954,246 (as of February 29, 2024).”
What is there to do here? Starting with its history, there are historical sites to explore, such as the Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, which focuses on Gullah history, and the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, where you can tour the National Historic Landmark ships, including the USS Yorktown. You can learn about the beautiful craft of sweetgrass basket making, one of America’s oldest West African art forms. On that note, don’t miss the annual Sweetgrass Festival held in Mount Pleasant every summer.
The list continues as there is ample shopping, breweries and waterfront activities, such as the bustling Shem Creek, to keep everyone happy. So, if this pleasant town is where you want to hang your hat and call home, the good news is that there is some availability, but how much and when should you buy?
Nice and steady
“The real estate market in Mount Pleasant continues to be busy,” said Tyler. Comparing February 2024 to February 2023, the number of days a home is on the market has decreased, and the number of new listings has increased. This year has also brought an increase in the median sales price in Mount Pleasant.”
Pam Bass, global luxury Realtor with Pam Bass Properties, said, “Mount Pleasant has become more of a luxury market, but you can find more reasonably priced homes in some neighborhoods in North Mount Pleasant. However, the closer you are to the beach and proximity to downtown Charleston, the higher the price.”
She also said that single-family home sales have gone up 27% since this time last year, crediting the slight drop in interest rates to the increase in sales. “Since interest rates have taken a dip from their peak in the fall of last year, homebuyers (especially first-time home buyers) are coming out of the woodwork,” she explained.
It’s a seller’s oyster
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When house hunting in Mount Pleasant, your pickings might be a little slim, so keep a close eye on the listings because they may not last long. “Only 187 Mount Pleasant homes are on the market (as of March 3),” said Woods-Flowers. “Inventory remains extremely low, leading to multiple offers over list prices that are extremely high, so it’s still a firm seller’s market. Until interest rates settle down, most homeowners will not want to give up their lower rates.”
Once a home is listed, it’s selling pretty quickly. “A seller’s market is hot when it is below 60 days, and the average days a home stays on the market in Mount Pleasant is 33,” said Woods-Flowers. “It has been a very long time since we have been in a buyer’s market.”
Don’t let these statistics stop you from finding your perfect home. “In my opinion, it is a good time to buy, but there are also benefits to waiting with the current environment of multiple offers and interest rates that are still somewhat high,” said Woods-Flowers. “That being said, if you need or want to be in Mount Pleasant, it is not likely to get much cheaper, so it is time to consider purchasing. As always, it depends on the individual’s wants and needs.”
Keep an eye on your calendar because Bass said that the real estate market will get busier at the beginning of summer when kids get out of school and families are looking to relocate. “Also, if interest rates dip again, as predicted, a buyer frenzy will occur, and you will be competing against other buyers in multiple-offer situations,” she said. “It is better to buy now and refinance if the interest rates drop.”
Tyler agrees. “With sold prices expected to continue to rise in Mount Pleasant, due to the limited number of properties available for purchase and the high demand of properties, a purchase today could very well cost less than purchasing a similar property in 6 months.”
But beware that you will also be competing against buyers from out of town. “People are moving to Mount Pleasant from Boston, New Jersey and California, and they are paying cash for homes,” said Bass.
If you would prefer to live near Mount Pleasant, Woods-Flowers has some advice.
“Old Mount Pleasant has become completely unaffordable to middle-class families,” said Woods-Flowers. Park West and a number of other neighborhoods (Belle Hall, Long Point, neighborhoods along Rifle Range Road, etc.) are great neighborhoods with lower prices.”
In the meantime, as the market and the weather move toward the Spring, Tyler said to expect to see a nominal increase in the number of Mount Pleasant properties available for sale, with total market times staying low for well-priced properties in good condition.
“The National Association of Realtors is forecasting a 13% increase in existing-home sales this year compared to 2023,” said Bass. “They are predicting mortgage rates to drop again in the second quarter, which will bring buyers back into the market who were on the fence. If this happens, we will see multiple offers and homes going under contract quickly.”
So, the bottom line is when it comes to Mount Pleasant, it’s not only about location, location, location, but it’s also about price, price, price. But it is a lovely place to hang that ‘home sweet home’ sign and well worth the money.
How does Trader Joe's choose new locations? Here's what analysts say.
Anna Sharpe asharpe@postandcourier.comhttps://www.postandcourier.com/news/trader-joes-mount-pleasant-new-store/article_4d125956-c11c-11ee-9b9b-abcaa3c5e9e2.html
MOUNT PLEASANT — The saying goes that beggars can’t be choosers, and Trader Joe’s certainly doesn’t need to beg for business (if you've ever fought for a parking spot on a Sunday afternoon, you know).The California-based grocery chain has a reputation for being highly selective about where it opens new stores — even if that means choosing a second location a few miles fr...
MOUNT PLEASANT — The saying goes that beggars can’t be choosers, and Trader Joe’s certainly doesn’t need to beg for business (if you've ever fought for a parking spot on a Sunday afternoon, you know).
The California-based grocery chain has a reputation for being highly selective about where it opens new stores — even if that means choosing a second location a few miles from an existing one.
Trader Joe’s confirmed in January that Mount Pleasant will soon have not one, but two stores in town.
The announcement sparked excitement, praise and a fair amount of grumbling from outside fans of the grocery chain who believe their communities are more deserving of a new Trader Joe's location. A post about the chain's plans for Mount Pleasant drew more than 800 comments on The Post and Courier's Facebook page.
"This is the craziest decision," one reader groused. "Right around the corner basically from the current one...why not spread out a bit and go to James Island, West Ashley, N. Charleston or Summerville?"
"Do better Trader Joes," another demanded. "Two locations in the same area is preposterous."
As one might imagine, the news received a much more favorable reception in Mount Pleasant.
Tasha Blomquist and her son perused the floral offerings in front of the store on a cloudy morning. Blomquist said she stops by the store twice a week and is eager to see a new location, hopefully, in the northern part of town, where she lives.
“I live way in north Mount Pleasant, so I’m happy there might be one there,” Blomquist said. “I think it’s needed though because every time I’m here … I feel like you have to do multiple laps around the parking lot just to find a spot.”
Another shopper, Kelly Crowley, who lives near Brickyard Plantation, said opening a second store will hopefully cut down on crowds.
“We come by here pretty regularly. If you come here on Sunday or even Saturday, it’s lines all the way back into the aisle," Crowley said.
Though Trader Joe’s has not disclosed where the new store will be, multiple sources have told The Post and Courier the grocery chain is considering the old Bi-Lo building at the foot of the Isle of Palms Connector — a few miles from the store on Johnnie Dodds Boulevard that opened in 2011, and not farther into northern Mount Pleasant as customers like Blomquist would hope.
The proximity to an existing store seems like a head-scratching move — why does Mount Pleasant get two stores 5 miles apart, bypassing places like Summerville or West Ashley?
Demand for a Trader Joe’s in these areas is high, as evidenced by petitions that attract thousands of signatures calling for the chain to open the shop in their towns and cities.
One such petition from 2020 that called for a store in Summerville earned nearly 5,000 signatures. Another in West Ashley gained over 6,000.
Similar efforts also crop up in Myrtle Beach regularly. The city is one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing, yet you won’t find a Trader Joe's in the coastal municipality. Former Horry County Director of Planning David Schwerd said he had that conversation over and over during his 30-year tenure.
“'We need Trader Joe's. Everybody always wants a Trader Joe's. Pretty much every time a commercial rezoning or development planning comes up, it's usually the first one that gets mentioned,” Schwerd said.
Jeff Campbell, the University of South Carolina's department of retailing chair, said grocery stores, particularly Trader Joe's, are extremely strategic in opening new locations. You won't see a Trader Joe's on every corner, and they take their time scouting areas before settling on a city.
"Typically, they would use a variety of metrics in site selection, and while location is still an important consideration, they'll look at things like projected foot traffic, the demographics of the area, where the current transportation routes are, where competitors are located," Campbell said.
Myrtle Beach being a hot spot for tourists might not be attractive to the chain either. People who visit the coastal city are looking to stock up for the week, heading to Walmart or Costco for items in bulk, rather than prepackaged, single-serve foods, Campbell said.
People can request that Trader Joe’s consider their city for a new store. Nakia Rohde, a spokesperson for Trader Joe’s, said the company receives “tons” of requests for stores nationwide.
The company doesn’t share much about how it chooses the perfect site for a new Trader Joe's. But Schwerd has a hunch. He pointed to the region’s median income, age and education level — factors the grocer is thought to consider when choosing sites for a new store.
“They have their undisclosed lists of what they're looking for in demographics,” Schwerd said. “Even though Trader Joe's does not list any specific criteria in their evaluation, that's what they're looking for. They have an upscale, educated clientele.”
An interview with Joe Coulombe, the store’s founder and namesake, published in the LA Times in 2011 demonstrates this ideology that seems to have stuck with the company: “Unless you have enough well-educated people, Trader Joe’s will not work.”
Because of these factors, Schwerd said Horry County or Myrtle Beach are unlikely to get a Trader Joe’s any time soon.
According to U.S. census data, Myrtle Beach has a median income of $57,713, a median age of 51.5 years and 28.8 percent of residents who hold bachelor’s degrees or higher.
Mount Pleasant’s median age of 41.3 years is slightly higher than the state’s 40.5 years, but in Greenville and Columbia, where the other two Trader Joe’s are located, the median ages are much younger at 35.9 and 28.4, respectively.
“They want younger consumers, they want a little bit better-income consumers," Campbell said.
Mount Pleasant, where the median income is $114,237 and 66 percent of residents hold a bachelor’s degree, is far above the state’s median income level of roughly $64,000 and where 32.6 percent of the state hold bachelor's degrees.
So, Trader Joe’s wants to open stores in higher-earning areas with higher volumes of college-educated folks, and Mount Pleasant happens to fit the bill. It fits so well that shoppers will soon find half of South Carolina's Trader Joe's in town.
Campbell, who lives in Lexington, said he’d like to welcome a store in his city, but it’s not likely — it's just not what Trader Joe’s is looking for.
“They're not trying to sell to everybody. They're trying to sell to a particular demographic, and that demographic tends to do very well,” Campbell said.
Reach Anna Sharpe at 843-806-6790.
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