35 Folly: A Mixed-Use Community in Charleston's Historic District

What 35 Folly Offers

35 Folly is a mixed-use development by Flournoy Companies located at 35 Folly Street in Charleston's historic downtown. The project combines residential apartments with ground-floor retail and restaurant space, designed to fit into the character of the neighborhood while adding new housing to the area.

The residential units range from studios to three-bedroom layouts. The building itself reflects Charleston's architectural traditions—brick facade, proportioned windows, and a footprint that respects the street-level experience of the historic district. Flournoy Companies, a Charleston-based developer, has focused the project on walkability and integration with existing downtown amenities rather than creating an isolated complex.

Ground-floor tenants include dining and retail businesses that activate Folly Street and create a mixed neighborhood feel. This arrangement means residents have restaurants and shops accessible on foot, and the street itself remains lively throughout the day and evening.

Key Takeaways

• 35 Folly combines apartments with ground-floor retail and dining in downtown Charleston's historic district.
• Unit sizes range from studios to three-bedroom apartments designed for different household types.
• The building's design reflects Charleston's architectural character with brick, proportioned windows, and street-level activation.
• Residents have walkable access to downtown restaurants, shops, and cultural venues without needing a car for daily errands.
• Flournoy Companies developed the project with an emphasis on neighborhood integration rather than standalone development.

Location and Neighborhood Access

35 Folly Street places residents within Charleston's downtown core, steps from the City Market, historic homes, galleries, and restaurants. The location offers immediate access to King Street's retail corridor and the waterfront district. Residents can walk to the Gibbes Museum of Art, local bookstores, coffee shops, and the network of historic squares that define downtown Charleston.

Public parking is available through downtown lots and garages, though the walkable nature of the location means many residents can accomplish daily tasks without a car. The area has bus service through CARTA (Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority), connecting downtown to other neighborhoods and employment centers across the city.

The historic district setting means the neighborhood has established character and restrictions on exterior changes to buildings. This protects the visual continuity of the area but also means the streetscape and architectural environment remain stable and intentional.

Unit Types and Interior Design

The apartments at 35 Folly are organized by size and layout rather than luxury tier. Studios offer efficient open-plan living for single occupants or couples. One-bedroom units provide separation between sleeping and living areas. Two- and three-bedroom layouts accommodate families or roommate situations and typically include multiple bathrooms.

Interior finishes reflect contemporary standards—modern kitchens with appliances, climate control, and updated plumbing and electrical systems. The specific finishes, flooring materials, and fixture choices vary by unit type. Flournoy Companies has designed the interiors to be functional and durable rather than luxury-focused, which typically keeps rental rates more moderate than high-end downtown developments.

Windows in most units face Folly Street or interior courtyards, providing natural light and ventilation. The building's brick exterior and interior layout create sound insulation between units, a practical benefit in a downtown location where street noise can be a factor.

Amenities and Building Features

Common areas at 35 Folly typically include a lobby, mailroom, and bike storage to support residents' daily needs. Some units may have access to a courtyard or outdoor space. The building's design prioritizes the relationship between residents and the street rather than creating a resort-style amenity package, which aligns with Flournoy's approach to urban infill development.

The ground-floor retail and dining tenants function as amenities for residents—a coffee shop or restaurant steps from your door means you can walk downstairs for breakfast or meet friends without leaving the building. This model differs from suburban apartment complexes with pools and fitness centers; instead, the neighborhood itself becomes the amenity.

Bike storage and pedestrian-friendly design support residents who walk or cycle for transportation. The location near downtown employment, cultural venues, and services makes car ownership optional for many residents.

Rent, Lease Terms, and How to Inquire

Rental rates at 35 Folly vary by unit size, floor level, and current market conditions. Downtown Charleston rents have risen over the past several years as demand for walkable urban housing has increased. The specific rent for a studio, one-bedroom, or larger unit changes based on availability and lease timing.

Lease terms are typically 12 months, though some flexibility may exist for longer or shorter commitments depending on the landlord's needs and current occupancy. Security deposits, application fees, and move-in costs follow standard rental practices and should be confirmed directly with the leasing office.

To learn about current availability and pricing, contact Flournoy Companies directly through their website or call their leasing office. You can also visit the building in person to tour units and speak with staff about what is currently available. Many downtown apartments maintain waiting lists during peak seasons, so early inquiry is worthwhile if you are planning a move.

Parking and Transportation

35 Folly's downtown location means parking is not included with most units—instead, residents use public downtown parking lots and garages operated by the city or private companies. Monthly parking passes are available through these facilities, typically costing less than dedicated parking at the building would. Some residents choose not to own a car, relying on walking, biking, and CARTA bus service.

The building's location on Folly Street provides direct access to downtown's street grid and proximity to major routes. King Street, one block away, connects downtown to the College of Charleston campus and neighborhoods beyond. The waterfront is a short walk, and the historic district's network of streets makes navigation on foot intuitive.

CARTA bus routes serve downtown and connect to other parts of Charleston. The nearest major transit hub is at the City Market area, a few blocks away. Residents without cars can reach employment centers, shopping, and services through a combination of walking and public transit.

The Flournoy Companies Approach

Flournoy Companies has developed multiple projects across Charleston with a consistent philosophy: new construction should respect neighborhood character and contribute to walkable, mixed-use communities rather than isolate residents in single-use complexes. 35 Folly reflects this approach through its street-level retail integration, architectural compatibility, and location within an existing neighborhood rather than on its periphery.

The developer's track record includes other downtown and near-downtown projects that have become established parts of their neighborhoods. This long-term presence in Charleston means Flournoy Companies has incentive to build projects that remain desirable and functional over decades, not just at opening.

The mixed-use model at 35 Folly—apartments above retail—is a traditional urban pattern that has returned to favor as demand for walkable neighborhoods has grown. It creates economic diversity on the street level and provides residents with immediate access to services and social spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 35 Folly pet-friendly?

Pet policies vary by landlord and lease. Contact Flournoy Companies or the leasing office directly to learn whether pets are permitted, what size or breed restrictions apply, and whether pet deposits or monthly fees are required. Some downtown buildings allow pets with conditions; others do not.

Can I see a unit before signing a lease?

Yes. You can visit the building and tour available units or model apartments during leasing office hours. If a specific unit is not yet vacant, you may be able to see a comparable unit to understand the layout and finishes. Call ahead to confirm hours and availability.

What utilities are included in rent?

Inclusion of utilities—water, sewer, trash, electricity, internet—depends on the lease terms. Some downtown apartments include certain utilities; others do not. Ask the leasing office which utilities are covered and which you will pay separately. This affects your total monthly housing cost.

Is there guest parking at 35 Folly?

Guest parking typically uses the same public downtown lots and garages as resident parking. The building itself may not have dedicated guest spaces. Confirm with the leasing office where visitors should park and whether there are any resident permits or validation options available.

How close is 35 Folly to the College of Charleston?

The building is roughly one mile from the College of Charleston's main campus, accessible by a short walk or bus ride. King Street, one block away, is the primary route connecting downtown to the campus. The location works for students or employees at the college, though it is not immediately adjacent to campus.