Teak back deck of a custom Isle of Palms home overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, built by Phillip Smith General Contractor

Charleston, South Carolina — Estd 1990

Custom homes, built with intention.

A clear, collaborative approach to building in Charleston—designed to guide you from first idea through long-term care.

Serving Charleston homeowners for over 30 years

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Estd 1990
30+ Years in Charleston
Prism Award
Charleston Home Builders Assn.
We build. We care.
With Nautilus Home Management

Why Us

Why homeowners choose Phillip Smith

Building a custom home is a significant investment. The experience should feel clear, thoughtful, and well-managed from the very beginning.

01

Intentional from the Start

Early alignment

Every successful project begins with alignment. We bring the builder, architect, and design team together early—creating a collaborative foundation that keeps your vision, budget, and timeline working in sync from day one.

02

Guided by Experience

Charleston expertise

With over 30 years of building in Charleston, we understand what it takes to design and construct homes that perform in a coastal environment. That experience allows us to make informed decisions early—avoiding unnecessary delays and ensuring a smoother path forward.

03

Built to Last

Proven craftsmanship

Quality is measured over time. We work with trusted partners, proven materials, and refined building methods—continuously improving our process to ensure your home is built with longevity in mind. Because the details you don’t see matter just as much as the ones you do.

04

A Long-Term Approach

Ongoing Care

Our responsibility doesn’t end when construction is complete. Through our partnership with Nautilus Home Management, we offer a seamless transition into ongoing care—giving you the ability to maintain and protect your home for years to come.

A thoughtful approach. A proven process. A home designed to last.

The Film

One team. Every phase.

Our Process

A clear path from vision to long-term care

01

Discover

Every home begins with a conversation. We align your vision, budget, and team from the very beginning.

02

Design & Plan

We refine the details before construction begins. Thoughtful planning ensures a smoother, more predictable build.

03

Build

Your home is built with care, precision, and trusted craftsmanship. You stay fully informed with real-time updates throughout the process.

04

Care

Our commitment continues beyond completion. Through Nautilus Home Management, your home is supported and maintained long-term.

Build → Care, Seamlessly

From construction through long-term management, your home is supported through one connected approach.

Learn About Our Process Explore Nautilus

A process designed to give you confidence—at every stage.

“We were impressed by the quality and attention to detail from the very beginning. The process stayed on time and close to budget, with consistent communication and follow-up throughout. In the end, the result was a truly custom home with exceptional quality and character.”
— B&B

Portfolio

Homes we've brought to life

From coastal retreats to in-town residences, each home is designed around how it will be lived in.

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New ConstructionOpen-concept dining and kitchen with reclaimed pecky cypress door and stain-grade ceiling beams, Sullivan's Island custom waterfront home

Sullivan's Island Beach Retreat

Defined by rare dual waterfront views from every room

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New ConstructionCedar shingle exterior of a modern Lowcountry beachfront home on Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms Lowcountry Modern

Material-driven design built to perform and age with the coast

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New ConstructionFront exterior of a custom home on Captain's Island, Daniel Island, with layered rooflines and gas lanterns

Daniel Island Lowcountry Entertainer

A home shaped by personal history and built for hosting

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New ConstructionBarrel-vaulted wood ceiling opening to pool views

Contemporary Isle of Palms

Designed for effortless gathering across generations

View Project →
Family room fireplace detail in a custom Isle of Palms home

Trusted by homeowners across Charleston

A consistent experience built on communication, craftsmanship, and long-term trust.

"I have built before, and I can tell you this was a wonderful experience. Working with Phillip Smith was a true pleasure from start to finish."
— Ted & Rose Levin
“Not only was our home completed within our tight timeframe, it was also delivered within budget. The attention to detail, follow-up, and overall professionalism made the entire process seamless.”
— Stan & Nancy Custer
“Phillip Smith exceeded our expectations every step of the way. Their commitment to quality and attention to detail made this experience truly exceptional.”
— Rod & Chris Heinlen
“This is the first time we’ve truly marveled at both the quality of work and the level of care we received. No surprises, no shortcuts—just first-class craftsmanship and integrity throughout.”
— David & Susan Heller
“I know at least six people they have built homes for—and not a single one had anything negative to say. Now I understand why. It was a great experience.”
— Eric & Hannah Dodson
Reclaimed barn-wood stairwell ceiling, a family's history built into a Daniel Island custom home

Our Story

The same standard, carried forward

For over three decades, Phillip Smith built a reputation on craftsmanship, honesty, and homes designed to last. Today that standard continues under Bill Payzant—who worked alongside Phillip for years before leading the company into its second generation.

Not a new direction. A continuation of the same standard—carried through every phase of homeownership.

Read Our Story

After the Build

What happens after the build?

The same level of care—carried forward.

A well-built home is only part of the story. How it is cared for over time matters just as much.

Through Nautilus Home Management, that same level of attention, structure, and accountability continues long after construction is complete. For many of our clients, this is the natural next step—ensuring the home is not only built to last, but maintained to perform.

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Nautilus Home Management · Member, National Home Watch Association

Start Your Build

From first idea to long-term care

We bring together thoughtful planning, trusted craftsmanship, and ongoing home stewardship—so your home is supported well beyond the build.

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