There’s something magical about waking up to the sound of waves crashing and feeling that salty breeze right outside your window. Owning an oceanfront home in Ocean City isn’t just about having killer views: it's about creating a space that embraces the coastal lifestyle while ensuring comfort, durability and style. But let's face it: decorating a beachfront home can't be as relaxing as sunbathing, especially if it's your first time furnishing a space so close to the water.
One thing’s for sure: an Italian sofa might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of beach house furniture, but trust me, quality matters. The salty air, humidity, and bright sunlight can be brutal on low-quality materials. Investing in durable, well-designed pieces means your home will look good and stay functional for years, no matter how much sand gets tracked in after a morning surf session.
House Plan: What Spaces Matter Most?
- Prioritize Open Living Areas: Oceanfront homes thrive on seamless indoor-outdoor living. Combine the kitchen, dining, and living areas into one big, flowing space to maximize natural light and airflow.
- Minimize Hallways: Long, enclosed hallways cut off airflow and feel cramped. Go for open transitions between rooms.
- Bigger Mudroom = Less Mess: A dedicated beach entry with storage for sandy gear, towels, and shoes is a must. Built-in cabinetry like the Molteni&C Gliss Master Wardrobe helps keep clutter hidden.
- Smaller Bedrooms, Bigger Outdoor Spaces: You won’t be spending much time inside, so prioritize deck space over oversized bedrooms. Instead, go for compact, cozy sleeping areas with floor-to-ceiling windows for the best morning view.
- A Spa-Like Bathroom: Think about a freestanding tub facing the ocean (like the Antonio Lupi Baìa Bathtub). Because even in winter, with rain and high waves, the view of the ocean is always spectacular.
Materials That Survive Ocean Life
Salt, humidity, and sun exposure are your biggest enemies when it comes to furniture. Choose materials that can take a beating and still look fresh:
- Teak wood: Naturally resistant to moisture and salt, making it ideal for dining tables, chairs, and even bed frames. Look out for brands like Riva 1920 and Roda who specialize in teak furniture.
- Powder-coated aluminum: No rust, no problem. MDF Italia offers a wide choice of aluminum furnishing items.
- Wicker and rattan: Lightweight, durable, and ideal for that laid-back, beachy feel. But opt for synthetic versions for better longevity. Manutti pieces could work for you.
- Stone and concrete: Great for countertops, coffee tables, and side tables since they won’t warp or degrade in humidity. Royal Botania and Zanotta have some stunning pieces you could look at.
A Smart Color Palette (Beyond Just Blue)
How boring a beach house all decorated with blue and white stripes must be. Instead, go for tones that work with the shifting light of the ocean:
- Soft neutrals: Sand-colored walls, warm beiges, and taupes create a relaxed, natural base.
- Deep sea tones: Forest green, slate blue, or charcoal gray add depth without feeling cliché.
- Textured finishes: Consider limewash or Venetian plaster for walls. They hide humidity marks better than flat paint.
- Furniture accents: Stick to raw woods, linen upholstery, and muted earthy tones: think Acerbis Storet Bookshelf in a glossy pink finish or the Cassina Maralunga Armchair in a deep oceanic green.
Outdoor Space: Where You’ll Spend Most of Your Time
You didn’t buy an oceanfront home to sit inside all day. Your deck, patio, or balcony deserves just as much attention as your interiors:
- Outdoor dining that lasts: A solid marble-and-steel dining set like the Giorgetti Break Outdoor Table is a smart investment: no rust, no warping, just style and quality.
- Lounging essentials: Consider a Paola Lenti Wave Outdoor Sunbed or a Vondom F3 Outdoor Sunbed for the ultimate relaxation setup.
- Fire pits: Evenings get breezy by the ocean, so an AK47 Zero Outdoor Brazier keeps things cozy without the mess of wood-burning setups.
- Rugs that can take the weather: Indoor-outdoor rugs in recycled PET are stylish, soft, and totally weatherproof. Plus: they can be so stylish! Have you ever seen the Flexform Dakota Outdoor Carpet?
Windows & Doors Designed for a Reason
- Go Big on Windows: The view is your biggest asset. Maximize it with floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Opt for impact-resistant glass (like Schüco ASS 77 PD) to withstand ocean winds and storms.
- Sliding vs. French Doors: Sliding doors (especially in aluminum or fiberglass) handle salt air better than wood. If you prefer French doors, make sure they're treated with a marine-grade finish.
Small Useful Details That Make a Big Impact
- Hooks everywhere: Wet towels, swimsuits, and beach bags pile up fast. Install hooks in entryways, bathrooms, and even outside by the shower.
- Dehumidifiers: Humidity control is key: place one in closets and bedrooms to keep mold at bay.
- Outdoor shower: Rinse off the sand before stepping inside. Go for a stainless steel setup like the Viteo Outdoor Shower.
- Light, breathable bedding: Switch out heavy duvets for linen sheets and lightweight blankets. Frette Linen Sheets are an investment, but worth every penny.
Designing your first oceanfront home is exciting, but let’s be real: it’s also overwhelming. The biggest mistake? Trying to do it all solo. Instead of randomly picking pieces, consider reaching out to professionals who can help you plan everything from furniture placement to materials that last in coastal conditions.
Many design retailers now offer custom home planning services, making it easier to visualize your space before committing to big purchases. In Ocean City, where homes face unique climate challenges, plenty of homeowners have turned to Tomassini Arredamenti, since not only do they carry top international brands, but they also create custom home plans and ship worldwide.
