Artful Escapes: The Cooper

The six-story stay with white oak floors, shiplap wall paneling, and antique brass accents is a dazzling addition to Charleston’s waterfront

Balcony view of the ocean with sailboats, palm trees, and a cozy seating area with a wicker chair and a table with tea.
The Cooper. Photo: Courtesy of The Cooper

Charleston conjures images of postcard-ready cobblestone streets, but it’s the city’s waterfront that steps into the limelight with the debut of The Cooper. Champalimaud Design helped to conceive the six-story building, selecting white oak floors, shiplap wall paneling, and antique brass accents pulled from a nautical vernacular. Plus, the hotel’s marina docks a 105-foot, 1920s-era yacht and a Hinckley.

Large waterfront building reflecting on calm water under a clear sky.
The Cooper. Photo: Courtesy of The Cooper
Spacious hotel lobby with elegant lighting, natural tones, large plant, and landscape artwork hanging on wooden panel walls.
The Cooper.
Elegant restaurant interior with wooden tables, beige chairs, modern decor, and ambient lighting.
The Crossing at The Cooper. Photo: Courtesy of The Cooper
Bright hotel room with large window, queen bed, bedside tables, lamps, armchair, and view of the sea.
Guest suite. Photo: Courtesy of The Cooper
Modern bathroom with blue herringbone tiles, double vanity, gold fixtures, and large mirrors with a hanging robe visible.
Guest bath. Photo: Courtesy of The Cooper
Cozy living room with beige sofa, armchairs, and large window view of balcony and sea.
Guest suite at The Cooper. Photo: Courtesy of The Cooper

A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2026 Summer Issue in the section “Artful Escapes.” Subscribe to the magazine.