Historic Ocean House Re-Opens After $140 Million Restoration

The resort also boasts a stretch of private beach, making it the only resort in New England that can host private events and wedding ceremonies on the water's edge. A short drive from New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts, the property is ideal for close-to-home family vacations, weekend luxury escapes, destination weddings and mid-week business retreats.

Famously known for its warm, yellow façade and stunning views of the Atlantic, the Ocean House was built just after the Civil War. Originally, one of five grand Watch Hill hotels along the Rhode Island coast, the Ocean House, with its own private beach, became a genteel resort for generations of families and guests from across America who came "to summer." The Ocean House welcomed guests for 135 years, until 2002 when a new structure replicating the original exterior design was conceived. More than 5,000 salvageable artifacts and furnishing elements were lovingly harvested from the original structure's historic interiors and have become part of the new structure.

The new Ocean House pays tribute to luxurious, Victorian-era seaside hotels while providing every modern convenience. Master craftsmanship is evident at every turn of the gracious interiors; from the impeccably detailed architectural elements to the imported hardwood floors, the decorative copper trim and the custom-designed furnishings. Each spacious room, ranging from 450-square-feet to the 3,000-square-foot deluxe suites, is richly appointed to reflect the feel of a sprawling seaside estate, offering an unrivaled residential experience. Many guest rooms feature breathtaking water views, working fireplaces and private terraces.

Modern technology is integrated throughout the resort, including complimentary, fully-stocked Apple iPads for guests. The iPads can be personalized with specific content for guests upon request and are restored between users so the previous user's browser history and email will not be available to the next guest. LCD flat panel televisions are in all guest rooms, as well as in the stately marble bathrooms which feature soaking tubs and separate showers. Additionally, state-of-the-art sensory technology alerts staff of housekeeping needs, including the removal of room service trays, and to complement the resort's residential experience, each guest room has a dedicated floor valet for butler service.

Dining at the Ocean House is a memorable culinary experience from Executive Chef Albert Cannito. Guests are treated to inspired farm-to-table cuisine from the Atlantic Northeast, utilizing estate-grown ingredients from the resort's 10-acre farm, herbs from the Ocean House herb garden, traditional native foraging, local organic produce and the ethical use of the sea to create a unique and unforgettable dining experience at every meal. Resort guests can choose from several casual and fine-dining venues, including the resort's signature restaurant, Seasons, where the seasonally-inspired menu changes weekly.

In addition, the 12,000-square-foot OH! Spa offers year-round, seasonally-inspired signature services personalized to each guest’s needs, using locally-sourced products and organic materials. The OH! Spa also features a private line of premium spa products for sale inspired by the therapeutic properties of the beach and local ingredients. Scents used in each product change to reflect the freshest ingredients available each season. The Ocean House's state-of-the-art fitness center offers commanding ocean views, complete with virtual fitness instructors, a yoga and movement studio, and 20-meter indoor lap pool.

The 23 residences at the Ocean House are configured as studios and one and two bedrooms, located in a separate residential wing. All units offer beach access, ocean views and the intimacy of a private estate with access to the amenities and services of a luxury resort. The spacious, well-proportioned rooms fill with light from elegant, oversized windows. Rooms feature floors made of imported marble, stone and fruit wood. Granite countertops and custom cabinetry create an environment of warmth and style in the kitchens equipped with a full complement of premier appliances. Marble bathrooms feature fine fixtures and rich finishes to create a sumptuous environment that restores, revives and relaxes.

Guests and residents alike can enjoy a variety of daily resort activities offered complimentary, including a full culinary education program, championship croquet with a resident professional, spa and wellness programs and seasonal evening harbor cruises. The Watch Hill area is home to an array of theaters, museums and a myriad of outdoor activities, including surfing, fly-fishing and deep sea fishing. Guests and residents can also enjoy private golf and tennis arrangements exclusive to the Ocean House.

Hotel Profile: The Ocean House