Southern Charm star Patricia Altschul has sold her iconic Charleston mansion, but fans of the show will be relieved to know she’s not moving out anytime soon. In a recent episode of the Bravo series (Season 10, Episode 4), Patricia revealed a major development: her son, Whitney Sudler-Smith, has purchased the sprawling estate.
This arrangement ensures that the historic 9,500-square-foot home, known as the Isaac Jenkins Mikell house, remains in the family. Built-in the 1850s, the 10-bedroom mansion is a centerpiece of Charleston’s Historic District and an integral part of the Southern Charm story.
Why Whitney Bought the Home
During a candid show confessional, Patricia explained the financial reasoning behind the sale. “Several years ago, we met with our lawyers, estate planners, and money manager,” she said. The verdict was clear: inheritance taxes would take a massive bite out of the estate when it passed to Whitney.
“They said when I kick the bucket, Whitney will have to pay—I don’t know—46 percent in [inheritance taxes]. Something extraordinary,” she explained. To avoid this financial pitfall, Whitney bought the home directly from his mother and placed it in his own trust.
Patricia originally purchased the property in 2008 for $4.8 million; she now estimates its value at around $15 million. The decision to sell wasn’t just practical—it also solidified the home’s future in the family.
Lesson in Homeownership
Now that Whitney owns the property, Patricia has taken it upon herself to educate him about the responsibilities of maintaining a historic home.
“There are seasonal things,” she said in another confessional. “For example, the gardeners … and the landscapers. There are a million things to keep up an old home. In the spring, you have to buy lilies at a certain place for the pond.”
Whitney didn’t shy away from acknowledging the financial and logistical challenges of owning such a property. “Did you ever anticipate what a money pit it would be when we got this house?” he asked his mother. “Or has that completely evaded any kind of logistical reasoning?”
Patricia, always quick with a witty remark, reassured him: “You can afford it.”
The Home’s Stunning Features
Fans looked closer at the home when Whitney gave a tour, showcasing its “English country aesthetic” and its collection of 18th-century decor. The meticulously designed interior reflects Patricia’s sophisticated style, while the exterior boasts breathtaking formal boxwood gardens and rare architectural details.
Whitney also highlighted the backyard’s most unique feature: its swimming pool. “It’s hard to build pools in Charleston these days, as they have to be grandfathered in,” he explained. “This was built in the ’80s, so we’re lucky that we have a house with a pool. Not many houses in Charleston have pools because they don’t allow them.”
The yard’s serene ambiance and historical charm make it a true sanctuary. As Whitney noted, “You feel like you’re in a Greek temple.”
A Familiar Setting on Southern Charm
Fans of Southern Charm will undoubtedly recognize the iconic living room where Patricia and Whitney often have their conversations. It’s also where her beloved butler, Michael Kelcourse, once served her signature martinis. While Michael’s absence is deeply felt following his retirement, the home’s grandeur remains a hallmark of the show.
Despite Whitney’s new ownership, Patricia continues to reside in the mansion. Her presence ensures that the house retains its role as a backdrop for the drama and camaraderie of Southern Charm.
Patricia’s Unlikely Role on the Show
Patricia’s presence on Southern Charm has always been a treat for fans, even though she originally had no plans to appear. Over the years, her quick wit, lavish lifestyle, and undeniable charm have made her a standout on the series.
As she enjoys her days in the comfort of her home, Southern Charm viewers can take solace in knowing that the iconic property remains in the family—and on their screens.
What’s Next for the House?
With Whitney now at the helm, fans are curious about what changes, if any, he might make to the historic property. Patricia’s son has proven he values the home’s legacy, so he’ll likely preserve its grandeur while managing the challenges of maintaining such a unique estate.
TELL US:
Are you glad Whitney bought Patricia’s house? Do you think he’ll make any changes to the iconic property?
Catch new episodes of Southern Charm on Thursdays at 9/8c on Bravo,
