People often talk about the coastal communities of South Carolina or Florida when it comes to buying second homes, but Georgia also has an enticing stretch of the sea to offer. Sea Island, a gated and privately-owned area only accessible to residents and resort guests, is a dreamy place to recharge, socialize, and enjoy life by the ocean. Late architect and developer John Portman knew that, and created a masterpiece right on the water as his family’s summer retreat.
Known as Entelechy II, it was completed in 1986 and stands as an update, or architectural continuation, of his longtime Atlanta residence, Entelechy I. And, it’s certainly not your average beach house. The inventive getaway just listed for a steep $40 million following Portman’s passing in 2017.
For those unfamiliar with Portman, he made history by popularizing atrium architecture in hotels. He designed Atlanta’s Hyatt Regency and Marriott Marquis, but perhaps most famously the New York Marriott Marquis in Time Square. Unsurprisingly, his Sea Island residence utilizes glass and water features in a similarly grand fashion.
Primarily, however, the architect’s coastal home was an expression of his own identity and the uniqueness each person possesses, according to Wallpaper. Portman told the publication, “There will never be another you, and there will never be another me. The trick is to try to understand the essence of what you are.”
With this 12,586-square-foot mansion and its 3,432-square-foot guest house, the architect sought to explore his self-narrative and create something truly singular. From the outdoor sculptures to the interiors with staggering volume, the property exudes modernity and imagination. It’s museum-like facade dripping with greenery, swaths of glass, and mix of bold lines and shapes continuously move the eye for an experience that is complex, reflecting the intricacies of humanity and creating a dialogue as Portman intended.
This futuristic home may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but that cements it as a piece of art. Livable as well, of course, it offers 11 bedrooms in total, a large pool, ocean views, and plenty of space for glamorous parties.
Chase Mizell of Atlanta Fine Homes & Sotheby’s International Realty and Susan Imhoff and Ann Harrell of DeLoach Sotheby’s International Realty exclusively share the listing.