Circuit Court Judge Dale Van Slambrook has approved a new mediated settlement between the developers of 657 King Street, the city of Charleston, and Historic Charleston Foundation (HCF), represented by Hellman & Yates, PA. The settlement serves as the final outcome of HCF's challenge to the city of Charleston's decision allowing the King Street hotel development to exceed allowable height limits on portions of the property.
The settlement brings the legal challenge to a close and requires a redesign of the proposed hotel.
While the dispute centers on the interpretation of zoning regulations for this specific split-zoned parcel, the case also underscores broader issues important to Charleston’s future: the need for clear zoning regulations, consistent application of GIS mapping, appropriate zoning review, and high-quality architecture that responds to Charleston’s historic character and public realm.
The settlement and order underscore three key principles central to Historic Charleston Foundation's mission:
First, Charleston's split-zoning regulations should be interpreted and applied through the zoning staff or the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA), the body specifically charged with resolving zoning disputes. Split-zoning is an intentional planning tool used throughout Charleston's historic corridors to preserve walkability, protect the public realm, and ensure that development transitions appropriately between areas of differing scale and character.
Second, the case highlights the need for greater clarity within the City's zoning ordinance so that future property owners, residents, city staff, and public officials can consistently understand and apply split-zoning requirements.
Third, development in Charleston’s historic district should contribute positively to the city's historic character, walkability, and sense of place. As part of the settlement, the proposed 657 King Street hotel will be redesigned, with a new architectural firm now engaged to develop the project.
"This decision affirms the value of the zoning process, underscores the need for clear regulations, and supports the long-standing community expectation that development in Charleston should be world-class," said Winslow Hastie, Historic Charleston Foundation President & CEO.
Historic Charleston Foundation remains committed to advocating for policies and projects that preserve Charleston's unique character while supporting responsible and appropriate growth for future generations.
Read more on Historic Charleston Foundation’s website: June 19 and September 21, 2026 updates: https://www.