Thank you for your interest in the Carolopolis Award program! Please review the following information before nominating a project.
The Carolopolis Award program was established in 1953 to promote excellence in historic preservation through recognition of projects that protect the historic resources of Charleston and the Lowcountry. Now in its 72nd year, the Carolopolis Award is a time-honored tradition celebrating the Charleston community’s commitment to preserving its rich history and heritage.
The Preservation Society of Charleston (PSC) is pleased to invite nominations in the following five award categories through Friday, September 19, 2025.
AWARD CATEGORIES
Projects may be nominated under multiple award categories if applicable. If you are submitting nominations in multiple categories, a separate project narrative will be required for each category.
CAROLOPOLIS AWARD - EXTERIOR:
Awarded for substantial and exceptional exterior rehabilitation, restoration, or preservation.
CAROLOPOLIS AWARD - INTERIOR:
Awarded in recognition of excellence in interior preservation of historic, publicly accessible buildings, including but not limited to houses of worship, as well as civic and cultural buildings.
CAROLOPOLIS AWARD - NEW CONSTRUCTION:
Awarded to bring focus to exemplary new construction projects. High-quality residential, commercial, and mixed-use buildings are all eligible and must demonstrate compatibility with the scale of surrounding historic buildings. New construction projects are not eligible for Interior award nominations.
CAROLOPOLIS AWARD - RESILIENCE:
Awarded to projects that sensitively adapt historic properties to changing climate conditions, while adhering to best practices for historic preservation, and retaining the integrity and character of the structure.
PRO MERITO AWARD:
Awarded in recognition of rehabilitation, restoration or preservation work undertaken on properties that received an initial Carolopolis Award at least 20 years ago and have undergone a subsequent, exceptional preservation effort.