The Pinch

This sophisticated Charleston newcomer housed in two original Victorian-style brick buildings on George and King Streets has 22 rooms and suites and three residences with loft-like rooms and a residential vibe.

• The stylish loft-like King Suites—complete with well-equipped, high-end kitchens (farmhouse sinks and Blue Star ranges)—that feel like your very own pied-à-terre 
• The prime location, right off King Street, with easy access to restaurants and shopping (and close to College of Charleston)
• The full-size LG washer-dryers discreetly tucked away in the bathroom closet 
• The refreshing Aperol Spritz served from a bar cart in the lobby upon arrival

In Charleston’s historic Ansonborough neighborhood, The Pinch is among the best of the new boutique options in town, and is within easy walking distance to King Street restaurants, shopping and the College of Charleston. White Lotus season one actor Steve Zahn (in town filming a new show) was spotted in the lobby on our recent stay. Evidence, perhaps, that it is a place to be in the city right now (especially if you’re looking to stay a while). The entrance to this chic residential-style property is tucked into double-width Ellis alley off George and King Streets, and the lobby feels like a sophisticated living room: walls painted in warm, creamy Farrow & Ball tones; a large contemporary canvas by Lucas Reiner; a rust-colored custom sofa by BDDW;  a Snoopy lamp and an oversized desk put to use by the friendly young concierges on duty. The hotel was designed by Philadelphia’s Method Co., in a collaboration with Morris Adjmi Architects of New York. Art throughout the rooms includes lithographs by David Salle and Kelsey Brookes and colorful paintings by Fausto Rossi. Just off the living room is a small courtyard with leather couches and a full-size outdoor fireplace, a perfect spot for enjoying the Aperol Spritz welcome cocktail served from a bar cart upon arrival (and once checked-in, upon request).

The entire guest experience is designed to feel more like a residential one, complete with elevator key cards and a come-and-go-as-you-please vibe. A valet and concierges are on hand during the day to help with bags, bikes, restaurant suggestions and on-call after 11:00 p.m. King lofts and one-bedroom suites are chic and light-filled, and have homey touches such as potted plants and The Holiday-style remote control blackout shades, and bold patterned wallpaper by Lewis & Wood adds a dose of energy to the space. The well-equipped, high-end kitchens with bistro tables for two and marble or black walnut countertops, farmhouse sinks and Blue Star ranges and fully stocked mini bars and fridges make eating-in a plausible option, if that’s of interest (though with restaurants on-site, not necessary). Bathrooms are also pleasing, with hand-painted white and blue terracotta Moroccan floor tiles, WaterWorks fixtures, Aesop amenities—and despite the lack of bathtubs, they come with full-size LG washer/dryers for guest use. Some rooms also have balconies and a terrace.

The hotel's two restaurants include The Quinte, a modern oyster bar off the lobby, which serves lunch and dinner and cocktails at the 18-seat marble bar, and Lowland, a southern neighborhood tavern, located in the 19th-century former carriage house with a wood-burning fireplace and upstairs dining room. Coffee, tea and water are available throughout the day in the lobby; pastries, fruit and yogurt (served in glass containers with bamboo utensils) are served until 9:30 a.m. Massages and limited spa services are also available upon request. There is currently one treatment room. Guests can use a complimentary pass at Pivotal Fitness just a few blocks away.

Best For: Those looking for a style-focused boutique hotel experience or an extended stay and an alternative to the grand hotels nearby. This could also be fun spot for a girls’ weekend.

Good to Know: Rooms on King Street have great light and The Holiday-style remote-operated blackout shades, but the white noise machines are a clue that they may be a bit noisy at night on weekends, so best to ask for a bright but quieter room.