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Overview

Be the first to live in this one-of-a-kind modern luxury retreat in the country’s most exclusive resort community – Sea Island, Georgia.

Quiet descends as soon as you cross the bridge from St. Simons and pass the historic gatehouse to the peaceful private sanctuary of Sea Island, Georgia. This storied vacation community is home to the famous Cloister resort, which has played host to world leaders and presidents since its opening in 1928.

  • Designed by well-known architect Addison Mizner, The Cloister has been completely refurbished and is a phenomenal Forbes Five-Star resort with an astonishing array of amenities (details below under “Community: Sea Island Lifestyle”).
  • It's a quick and easy drive to 492 Forest Road, which lies in the gated enclave of Ocean Forest. The charming main avenue leads you past rows of live oak trees dripping moss, some of which were planted by visiting dignitaries including several U.S. presidents, Queen Juliana of the Netherlands, and British Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Margaret Thatcher.
  • Ocean Forest is an exclusive gated neighborhood on the northern tip of Sea Island, limited to just 100 homes and featuring a private club and golf course, as well as a private beach. Ocean Forest residents all have access to the private beach, and may apply to join the club.
  • A hush descends as you pass through the Ocean Forest gates onto a winding residential lane lined with more luxuriant landscaping. The atmosphere feels increasingly serene as you approach the home. Printable Overview

Unique among all the luxurious homes on the island for its sophisticated style and spectacular setting, 492 Forest Rd. is brand-new and features 5 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms in 10,570 square feet of custom craftsmanship and solid concrete construction.

Set on a half-acre with privacy plantings, incredible ocean views, an oversized infinity pool, a spa, a sauna, and a remarkable list of thoughtful touches and luxe extras, it’s truly an oasis that is perfect for either a year-round residence or a vacation retreat.

Construction, Energy Efficiency & Storm Safety

This solidly constructed home is extremely energy efficient and well-prepared to weather storms. Set on footers that go deep into the ground, it’s built of poured concrete walls over steel beams and floors that are steel pans with poured concrete. Foam insulation was also added.
  • Windows are Marvin impact-rated glass with low E coatings that reduce heat absorption from the sun. The German-engineered steel-and-glass doors also have impact-rated panes.
  • As noted before, the top-of-the-line Ludowici slate tile roof is exceptionally sturdy and weather-resistant (with a 75-year guarantee). All of the exterior railings are custom-made of solid iron that has been hot dipped, galvanized, and painted for long-lasting durability.
  • The cutting-edge high-SEER HVAC system has whisper-quiet delivery and multiple units and zones for individual temperature control. The ground level has floor vents, while the second and third levels have discreet slit ceiling vents.
  • Although Sea Island is rarely at risk for hurricanes since it’s nestled in an indentation in the coastline, the home’s superb construction and impact windows will give you peace of mind. A whole house generator isn’t currently installed, but the wiring exists so it is easy to add.

What I love about this house is the transitional style that combines modern elements with Spanish Mediterranean touches, so it blends in with the community but has a distinctive and up-to-date feel.

  • The home is contemporary and comfortable at the same time. Contemporary architecture isn’t my favorite, but this house is different. It lives so easily, with plenty of space for gathering together as well as areas for private time. The rooms have good scale and flow wonderfully, so even though the house is quite large, it doesn’t feel overwhelming.

    It would be perfect for a large family, for a couple who loves to entertain—for anyone, really. The layout is flexible—you can really make it how you want it.

  • The construction is incredible, with the steel structure, poured concrete walls and floors, Marvin impact windows, and heavy Ludowici roof; if there’s a storm, I’m moving in!

    All the finishes and details are of the highest caliber—everything is the best of the best—and the extras just go on and on. The landscaping is phenomenal; I think it’s the best on Sea Island, and I love the views. It’s one of the most amazing homes I’ve ever seen, and I’ve been designing houses for more than 30 years.

-- John Shackleford, Jr., of JP Shackleford Architect + Interiors