Casa Genotta - the name itself conjures scenes of romance and style.  And the house in no way disappoints. Located off the coast of Georgia on beautiful Sea Island, the house was built by renowned architect Francis Abreu in 1931 for Eugene O'Neill and his wife Carlotta Monterey O'Neill.  Casa Genotta was imagined as their weekend retreat.  Carlotta wanted the home to evoke a Spanish hacienda, and be the place of peace and contemplation where her husband could write.  And for five years, that is exactly what happened.  But Eugene O'Neill never felt the climate suited him, and he and Carlotta relocated to northern California.

The current owners consider themselves to be stewards of the O'Neill house; and accordingly, they have lovingly restored and redecorated the historic casa.

The living room is a masterpiece of relaxed glamour.  Of course, the architectural details are commanding: high ceiling, intricately stenciled beams, wide plank wood flooring, brick and tile Spanish style fireplace, and the fabulous series of French doors leading to the garden.

The interior designer said that she endeavored "not to over decorate."  That everything put into the rooms was designed to withstand "life at the beach."  Life at a very glamorous beach, I'd say.

Interior Design: Linda Lindsey, St. Simons
Photo: Tom Ackerman