Entelechy II, Iconic Modernist Home and Personal Residence of Famed Architect John Portman, Hits the Market

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Sotheby's International Realty Upholds Tradition of Representing Architectural Masterpieces

NEW YORK, Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sotheby's International Realty today announced that its affiliates, Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty and DeLoach Sotheby's International Realty in Georgia, will exclusively launch Entelechy II, an architectural masterpiece designed by renowned American architect and real estate developer John Portman.

Sotheby's International Realty logo. (PRNewsFoto/Sotheby's International Realty) (PRNewsfoto/Sotheby's International Realty)
Sotheby's International Realty logo. (PRNewsFoto/Sotheby's International Realty) (PRNewsfoto/Sotheby's International Realty)

The extraordinary beachfront estate built on Sea Island, Georgia in 1986 served as Portman's personal home for 31 years and showcases his modernist design and visionary approach. Captivating architectural enthusiasts since its celebrated feature in Architectural Digest in 1987, the home is now being offered for sale publicly for the first time for US$40 million. Listed by Chase Mizell of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty, who shares the listing with colleagues Susan Imhoff and Ann Harrell of DeLoach Sotheby's International Realty.

"Entelechy II is a triumph of architectural vision – a modernist masterpiece that served as the personal retreat of the legendary John Portman and his family," said Philip White, president and CEO, Sotheby's International Realty. "Portman built this extraordinary 12,500-square-foot property in an exceptional coastal location, where he could fully bring his innovative design approach to life. The residence embodies his iconic work throughout Georgia and the world, and it is a true privilege for our brand to represent the Portman family and this extraordinary estate."

According to Paul Goldberger, famed American author and architectural critic, "Portman was one of the few architects in modern times who seemed to take as much delight in playfulness as in geometric form and structural rigor." The term "entelechy" refers to the realization of one's potential and with Entelechy II, Portman incorporates the design philosophy from his previous works and his gift for making every day spaces feel like an experience. According to Goldberger, Portman's beach residence "was designed for modern life, and its energy and amiability were conceived to show that modern architecture could be not only luxurious and grand—it could also be high-spirited, playful, and full of surprise." The residence is a blend of glass, white stucco, and natural light, and features a collection of pavilions, gallery-like spaces, water elements, sculptural works, vine-draped edges, and a grid-like roof supported by colossal columns on the property. Highlights also include a dramatic courtyard, reflecting pools, a suspended walkway bridge linking the eastern and western pavilions, library, glass-enclosed formal dining room, and ocean views.