Fa l l 2 0 1 7 / W i n t e r 2 0 1 8
SUITE LIFE
The Ultimate Luxury Guest Experience
COV1_OH COVER FALL.WINTER OCEAN HOUSE 2017.indd 1
ROAD TRIPS
A Tour of Mystic, Newport and Narragansett
TABLE TALK
Foodies Find Their Paradise at COAST
SOCIAL CALENDAR Parties and Events Worth Traveling For
10/5/17 3:23 PM
FALL 2017/ WINTER 2018
cover photography by GEORGE ROSS
CONTENTS 10 Welcome Letter
33 Traveler
We host some of the most spectacular parties in New England. Here’s a look at a few of this past season's most talked about gatherings.
There’s plenty to see and do within a short walk or drive from Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn. This guide will show you where to go for culture, food and shopping. by Derve Jean
21 Insider
40 Road Trips
13 Social Network
The people who make your stay at our resorts unforgettable reveal how they like to explore new places.
27 Journeys
44 Perfect Pairing
Jennifer Backman brings her bold approach to COAST at Ocean House for one of the finest dining experiences in the region. by Owen McDonald
67 Seaside Muse
54 Romantic Touches
72 The Fall & Winter Annual
As a guest in our Signature Suites, you have access to amenities and services that take a luxury getaway to the next level. by Judy Ostrow
These three couples created one-of-a-kind weddings at Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn. Here’s how they did it. b y Ki m Ka v i n
61 Edible Artistry
Meet Devin Bozkaya, executive chef at The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn and the polymath of Quonnie Pond. by Owen McDonald
Guest rooms at Ocean House have a fresh new look that’s in step with the resort’s effortlessly chic ambience. by Judy Ostrow
Discover a full calendar of events for the fall and winter seasons—more than 75 experiences designed to create lifelong memories for our guests.
88 End Quote
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE ROSS
Each property in the Relais & Châteaux portfolio is intriguing, but here we highlight three truly dreamy destinations. by Owen McDonald
Our partnership programs with Mercedes-Benz and BMW give guests the chance to take the wheel and set their own course. by Owen McDonald
48 Living Large
8 OHMCOLLECTION.COM
8_9_OH FALL.WINTER.TOC_OH 2017.indd 8
10/11/17 10:44 AM
WELCOME
photography by CHIP RIEGEL
A Fine Year in Our Wake It’s time to celebrate achievements and set our sights on new experiences just over the horizon
P
principals
Ocean House Hotel Partners
president + group managing director Daniel A. Hostettler
editorial directors Rachel Volante Bridget Gadoury
creative director Amy Vischio
editor
Jeanne Craig
art director
Holly Keeperman
Dear Friends,
production director
As the holiday season draws near and our seventh anniversary at Ocean House comes to a close, I’d like to thank you for your continued support of the Ocean House Management Collection, and reflect on the accomplishments achieved in 2017. Over the past year, Ocean House saw numerous inspired improvements, many of which you’ll explore in the following pages. In February and March, all 49 guest rooms underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation replete with new fabrics, furnishings and state-of-the-art, in-room technology. Then, in the midst of a busy summer season, COAST by Jennifer Backman opened to rave reviews, replacing Seasons as Ocean House’s on-property, fine-dining restaurant. At Weekapaug Inn, Executive Chef Devin Bozkaya and his team continued to make magic in the kitchen, further positioning The Restaurant as one of the leading farm-to-table establishments in the region. Learn more about Chef Devin and how he prepares for dinner service in this issue. Also in this issue, discover the benefits of living large in an Ocean House or Weekapaug Inn Signature Suite; explore everything there is to do and see in Southern Rhode Island and the surrounding area; view our Social Calendar, which lists upcoming events; and share in the romance as some of our newlyweds offer you a glimpse into their big day. Finally, in an effort to highlight the best of our properties and location in any season, the next issue of Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn magazine will hit mailboxes in April. I hope you’ll be pleased with the new, biannual format and added lifestyle pieces. Please enjoy the latest issue, and I look forward to welcoming you as our guest in the season ahead.
contributing writers
Kerri Rak
Bridget Gadoury Derve Jean Kim Kavin Owen McDonald Judy Ostrow
contributing photographers Chip Riegel George Ross
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Jonathan W. Moffly
VICE PRESIDENT/EDITORIAL + DESIGN Amy Vischio
VICE PRESIDENT/FINANCE + OPERATIONS Brian R. Feidt
VICE PRESIDENT/SALES + MARKETING Pete W. Michalsky
VICE PRESIDENT/TREASURER Elena Moffly
SALES MANAGER Karen Kelly
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Yours in hospitality,
Daniel A. Hostettler President & Group Managing Director Ocean House Management Collection
Lisa Hingst Gabriella Mays
© 2017/2018 Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn magazines are published by Moffly Custom Media. all rights reserved. The material in this publication may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without the express written permission of Moffly Custom Media. Editorial suggestions may be forwarded to the publisher, who assumes no liability for the safety or return of unsolicited art, photographs or manuscripts. moffly custom media 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880 telephone: 203-222-0600 fax: 203-222-0937 email: mail@MofflyCustomMedia.com
10
OHMCOLLECTION.COM
10_12_OH FALL.WINTER.WELCOME LETTER_OH 2017.indd 10
10/11/17 10:49 AM
photography by GEORGE ROSS + CHIP RIEGEL
INSIDER Where are you headed next? I’m going to London, where I’ve never been before. My daughter is there for a semester. I hope to loop through Paris as well and then on to Switzerland.
Mark Bullinger Resident Naturalist and Director of Recreation, Weekapaug Inn
What are your travel essentials? My camera, shades, hat and binoculars.
CAMERA BY © JOEL- STOCK.ADOBE.COM
When you hit the road, what’s your guilty pleasure? Nuts and a paperback from the airport terminal bookstore. I like a window seat and a quiet corner with something to read. What location is on your bucket list? I want to get to the Galapagos Islands to see the wildlife. While in the lower latitudes I’d love to explore South America, specifically the Andes, where trout fishing is said to be epic. There’s a Relais & Châteaux property I’d like to see, too: the Wickaninnish Inn in British Columbia. It has fishing and ocean storms. That's my kind of place!
Tell us about your hometown. I grew up in Wilton, Connecticut, which is a rural suburb of New York City. There are lots of Colonial houses and commuters there, but if I had to suggest one place in that town for a tourist to visit, it would be the Weir Farm National Historic Site. It's a beautiful tribute to the Impressionist painter J. Alden Weir and his cohorts.
THE WAY I TRAVEL
The people who make a stay at our resorts unforgettable reveal how they like to experience new places
Never Leaves Home Without:
Bullinger’s love of the outdoors shows in the gear that he packs when he travels for pleasure. Among his essentials are his beloved fly-fishing rod and reel, binoculars, field guide and Nikon camera to capture everything he sees.
What food do you crave most when you’re traveling? Ha! I once drove from Connecticut to Seattle and ate nothing but McDonald's and peanut butter the whole way. What a waste! My dining habits have become more adventurous with age, but I still like to have PB along so I don’t have to eat at a dive when there are no better choices. Do you have a favorite place on Earth? It’s Weekapaug, Rhode Island. Finish this sentence: A sensational travel experience always includes … A mix of exploration and relaxation, a taste of new food and conversations with people along the way. And it doesn’t hurt if fishing or boating are in there, too.
OHMCOLLECTION.COM
21_26_OH FALL.WINTER.THE WAY I TRAVEL_OH 2017.rev.1.indd 21
21
10/11/17 1:21 PM
THE WAY I TRAVEL
Most listened to Spotify tracks? “Breathe” and “Eye of the Tiger.” Favorite travel app? Waze and the Nest app, so I can monitor my house while I am gone.
Director of Rooms, Ocean House
Never Leaves Home Without:
Finn-Heyl isn't big on planning trips, but she embraces the opportunity to travel on the spur of the moment. For that reason, this native of Germany keeps her backpack filled with essentials such as her passport, electrical adapter, headphones, journal and warm scarf.
22
What are your responsibilities as director of rooms? I ensure the smooth operation of guest services, including concierge, housekeeping and laundry. I present hospitality in a manner that is attentive, friendly and courteous. And efficient, too, because that’s what you expect of a German. Who’s your favorite travel companion? My sister Fabienne, because I never know what to expect when I'm with a scientist. Do you have any travel essentials? One of them is my travel backpack, which is always packed because you never know when an opportunity to leave town will pop up. I love last-minute trips and I do not do a lot of planning. The only thing I really need to travel is my passport, wallet, cell phone for photos and music, and headphones. For the most part, everything else can be purchased on the road.
Who do you FaceTime most often when traveling? My parents in Germany and my sister and nephew in Columbus, Ohio. And my grandma. Well, she doesn’t have FaceTime, but she’s convinced I can see her through her regular phone because technology has come a long way. What’s the coolest thing to see in your hometown? Wiesbaden, Germany, is a city with much history. You can experience it strolling the main plaza and visiting the theater and small shops. What Relais & Châteaux property is on your must-see list? Anjajavy in Madagascar. The craziest place you’ve discovered by chance? The Cesar Manriques house in the Canary Islands, which is built into a volcano. Your favorite place on Earth? At a dinner table with my parents, no matter where the meal takes place.
ADAPTER BY © AIREO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; HEADPHONES BY © TILER84- STOCK.ADOBE.COM
Corinne Finn-Heyl
Cities listed in your weather and world clock apps? New York, Westerly, Kennebunk, Frankfurt, Boston, Columbus, Madrid, London, Boulder, San Diego and Havana.
OHMCOLLECTION.COM
21_26_OH FALL.WINTER.THE WAY I TRAVEL_OH 2017.rev.1.indd 22
10/11/17 1:21 PM
APD_Ocea
ADAPTER BY © AIREO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; HEADPHONES BY © TILER84- STOCK.ADOBE.COM
Fresh, inventive, and timeless architecture. Southport | Quogue | apdarchitects.com
21_26_OH FALL.WINTER.THE WAY I TRAVEL_OH 2017.rev.1.indd 23 APD_Oceanhouse_FP_Ad_16_v3.indd 1
10/11/17 1:21 PM 8/10/16 4:29 PM
THE WAY I TRAVEL
steakhouses in the middle of nowhere. They always make the strongest drinks.
Never Leaves Home Without:
One of Chef Bour's travel necessities is a fast car. He's already slipped behind the wheel for a road trip across the country. For a journey like that, he'll pack a good atlas, a tool for quick repairs, his Gucci messenger bag, vitamins for stamina and gummy bears for snacking.
Nicolas Bour
Executive Chef, Ocean House Who’s your favorite travel companion? My best friend Riccardo Ullio. He is a chef and restaurateur all over the world together, as well as driven The Gumball Rally from coast to coast in two and a half days in a Ferrari 575M Maranello. What food do you crave most when traveling? Whatever the locals are known for. What destination is on your bucket list? Everest Base Camp. I have a longtime pen pal from Kathmandu, Nepal, who is a professional Sherpa. I would love to meet him in person
Where are you headed on your next trip? soon as I have a chance. When you travel, what’s your guilty pleasure? Greasy spoon diners and dive
24
What are your travel essentials? A fast Italian or German car, a radar detector, GPS, good-quality beef jerky. Best Spotify track for a long road trip? Anything by Face to Face, the greatest punk rock band of all time. What’s your favorite Relais & Châteaux property? Daniel in New York City. It’s an exhilarating food experience from a completely dedicated team. The R&C property I have yet to see, but hope to, is Baumaniére Les Baux de Provence, just an epic location and near my family in France. Craziest place you discovered by chance? A spotlessly clean public restroom in Istanbul. Where’s your hometown and what’s cool about it? I was born in Providence, where my father taught French at Brown for many years. That’s pretty cool! Your favorite place on Earth? As much as I love to travel, home—with my wife, Evenie, and our daughter, Mia—is still the best place.
OHMCOLLECTION.COM
21_26_OH FALL.WINTER.THE WAY I TRAVEL_OH 2017.rev.1.indd 24
10/11/17 1:22 PM
b y O W E N M CD O N A L D p h o t o g ra p h y b y C H I P R I E G E L + G E O R G E R O S S
ROAD TRIPS
EXPERIENCES
Our partnership programs with Mercedes-Benz and BMW give guests the chance to take the wheel and set their own course
40
D
riverless cars are directly ahead, but who wants a robot for a chauffeur? For many travelers, few things beat the thrill of getting behind the wheel, particularly when the vehicle is an all-out luxury model and the route to be explored is the spectacular New England coastline. Through an exclusive partnership with Mercedes-Benz USA, Ocean House guests can reserve one of several new vehicles. Those who stay at Weekapaug Inn have access to BMW models from the 7 and 5 Series. You simply reserve the car you want and take the keys. Where will you go? The possibilities in this part of the country are exceptional. Here are three excursions to help get you started.
• DESTINATION •
Newport, Rhode Island
( Distance from OH and WI: Approx. 40 miles )
It’s a glorious day in Westerly. You feel only contentment, when out of nowhere you crave a bit of adventure. Here’s the good news: The grandest Gilded Age mansions are just an hour away, and the
OHMCOLLECTION.COM
40_43_OH FALL.WINTER.ROADTRIP_OH 2017.indd 40
10/11/17 10:56 AM
TOP RIGHT BY © CHEE- ONN LEONG- STOCK.ADOBE.COM
highway leading you there is a ribbon of painted shoreline. Curiosity in gear, you slip into the Mercedes-Benz SL550 Roadster convertible or BMW 750i the concierge has reserved for you. As you leave your resort and steer toward Rhode Island’s scenic U.S. Route 1, Atlantic beaches and vegetation dominate the view. Top down and touring, you glide through Ninigret Pond and National Wildlife Refuge. Next comes Charlestown, the first U.S. municipality ever to ban giant wind turbines partly because they spoil the view. Treasures like Blue Shutters Town Beach are hidden here. We also know a local raw bar where you can go totally native.
About midway between Watch Hill and Newport, just off the highway, is South Kingstown. It’s adjacent to Narragansett and every bit as beautiful. There you’ll find Potter Pond, and on it, Matunuck Oyster Bar. The creation of aquaculture expert and lifelong oysterman Perry Raso, the restaurant serves a brackish bounty, thanks to Raso’s TED Talkworthy sustainable methods of farming shellfish, as well as produce. A splendid waterfront patio, terrific craft brews and tasty menus combine for a major uplift at the halfway point in your journey. Enter Newport like a star by crossing the Claiborne Pell Bridge (also known as the Newport Bridge) with a soaring leap across
Narragansett Bay. In a convertible, it feels like you’re airborne. That route soon brings you into downtown Newport, where traffic slows and pedestrians abound. Decision time: Do you park and enjoy the touristy delights or bypass town and go for the gild? We prefer the latter and suggest heading straight for Mansion Row. In some ways, Bellevue Avenue in Newport is as famous as the Champs-Élysées. As far as luxury has evolved, the extravagance of titans who built America, version 1.0, never fails to impress. Our concierge will gladly help plan your trip; DIY types can consult The Preservation Society of Newport County (newportmansions. org). The Breakers, Chateau-sur-Mer, The Elms, Marble House, Rosecliff, Kingscote, Hunter House, Isaac Bell House and Chepstow all still stand today like golden shrines from America’s belle epoque. Heading back for dinner at Ocean
Above: A fleet of Mercedes-Benz cars at Ocean House; The Elms in Newport. Below: The Breakers is just one of the stunning Gilded Age "summer cottages" in Newport.
OHMCOLLECTION.COM
40_43_OH FALL.WINTER.ROADTRIP_OH 2017.indd 41
41
10/11/17 10:56 AM
Left: Make a stop in Stonington for lunch and shopping. Below: A BMW at Weekapaug Inn; Point Judith Light at Narragansett Bay.
country. Entering Mystic can feel like a time warp in the best sense, where America’s whaling past coexists with its sophisticated present. For the complete experience, visit family-friendly Mystic Aquarium. • DESTINATION •
Narragansett, Rhode Island
( Distance from OH and WI: Approx. 25 miles )
THE JOY OF DRIVING
»
Guests 25 and older with a valid driver’s license can reserve a car for a day trip (between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.) or an evening ride (6:00 p.m. to midnight).
»
Longer drives are better for daylight sightseeing; sunset rides wrap you in the twinkle and glow of coastal New England. Either way you’re going to love it.
42
House or Weekapaug Inn, the drive is even sweeter as you think back on your experience. • DESTINATION •
Mystic and Stonington, Connecticut
( Distance from OH and WI: Approx. 15 miles )
In “The Boys of Summer” singer Don Henley captures convertible elation: “You got that top pulled down and that radio on…” We don’t promise Deadhead stickers on a Cadillac. Instead, better to reserve a convertible, Wayfarers optional. The Mercedes-Benz E400 convertible in our fleet is ideal for this short jaunt to neighboring Connecticut. As it so happens, two of our favorite destinations there are less than 30 minutes away from either Watch Hill or Weekapaug. You’ll pass through handsome hinterlands
and Westerly, Rhode Island, before crossing the Connecticut border. You soon come to Stonington Borough. This unique and timeless town with a welcoming warmth was founded as a fishing village hundreds of years ago, so it’s steeped in history. Make a stop here for lunch and some shopping before turning the wheel toward the Jonathan Edwards Winery in North Stonington. The Edwards family built their “Napa in New England” experience with passionate care and expert devotion to craft, which is delightfully evident in its many popular vintages. Stroll the vineyards and pick up a bottle of wine to enjoy back at the hotel before you head to marvelous Mystic. The distance from the Jonathan Edwards Winery to Mystic is just 10 miles, and it’s an especially stunning route when fall foliage is ablaze with vivid colors. This is prime leaf-peeper
interior of the car, Narragansett is a passing portrait of seaside grandeur. No Rhode Island visit is truly complete without seeing a lighthouse up close. We love the iconic Point Judith Light, which overlooks Narragansett Bay and Block Island Sound. The whole Point Judith area offers beaches and nature sanctuaries without the crowds. While there, consider hopping on the high-speed ferry for a half-hour boat ride over to Block Island, the ideal adventurous day trip. Known as “the Bermuda of the North,” the island offers rolling hills and meadows, with inspiring ocean vistas and some charming options for dining, shopping and sightseeing.
BOTTOM BY © JULI SCALZI- STOCK.ADOBE.COM
Luxury vehicles from Mercedes-Benz and BMW seem purpose-built to take the family on a pleasant drive to the sweeping crescent beaches of Narragansett. This route offers the same enchantments as a Newport excursion, only the road to Narragansett keeps you closer to the shoreline. Protected, preserved ecosystems and wildlife teem for miles around as you approach windblown Point Judith. The scenery overwhelms as the curve of Narragansett Town Beach fills the windows. Viewed from the lush
OHMCOLLECTION.COM
40_43_OH FALL.WINTER.ROADTRIP_OH 2017.indd 42
10/11/17 10:56 AM
DESIGN
SEASIDE MUSE
by JUDY OSTROW photography by CHIP RIEGEL + GEORGE ROSS
Guest rooms at Ocean House have a fresh new look that’s in step with the resort’s effortlessly chic ambience
OHMCOLLECTION.COM
67_71_OH FALL.WINTER.SEASIDE.MUSE_OH 2017.indd 67
67
10/11/17 11:27 AM
A SOFT TOUCH
ja
Mo
ore HC93 Ca
r ri
n to
B e ige
PAINT: Ben
in
ng
m
Woven fabrics with contemporary patterns meet traditional prints for chic and relaxed surroundings.
W
PATTERNS: Chelsea Square by Perennial Fabric, Banner by Mayer Fabrics, and Huntington Gardens by Schumacher FEATURED ROOMS: Deluxe Double (at right), Standard Suite (top)
ith a grand and imposing profile that complements its dramatic location, Ocean House was intentionally rebuilt seven years ago to duplicate the exterior of the original and storied 1868 resort. At the same time, this much-admired classic structure wraps around interiors that honor the hotel’s history while incorporating modern comfort and technology. Loyal guests love the resort’s 21st-century incarnation, and appreciate the warmth, beauty, and tradition embodied in its accommodations. So, plans to refresh these spaces with some updates that would keep them in synch with the latest tech and design trends required months of thoughtful preparation. Peter Niemitz, the Boston-based architect who designed the refurbished 2010 hotel interiors, worked with owner Charles Royce and his wife, Deborah, who were joined by Ocean
Above: Painted accent furnishings and new Stark carpet are part of the mix. Below: New details include storage benches at the foot of the beds.
House President and Managing Director Daniel Hostettler and Designer Brittany Borghesi in this latest effort. After coming to tentative decisions about fabrics, furnishings and other details of the renovations, the next step was a trial run. The team selected Rooms 301 and 215 as models for resort guests to evaluate. Those two spaces were redone for the 2016 season as a
68 OHMCOLLECTION.COM
67_71_OH FALL.WINTER.SEASIDE.MUSE_OH 2017.indd 68
10/11/17 11:27 AM
"It was intense, but at the same time it was a fantastic opportunity to be a part of the project —BRITTANY BORGHESI Ocean House Design Group
hardware and fixtures, Carpevola marble and luxe towels and robes, everything else was part of the metamorphosis. First, the old floors were taken up. Every room was painted in new colors—Benjamin Moore’s Buxton Blue, Carrington Beige and Popcorn Kernel are three classic wall hues—still with the natural surroundings of sea, land and sky as inspiration. Existing furnishings that had a place in the refreshed design were sent off for refinishing. “It was intense, but at the same time it was a fantastic opportunity to be a part of the project from start to finish,” says Borghesi. In addition to the 49 guest rooms that were getting a full makeover, Borghesi also took charge of complete renovations to three of Ocean House’s Signature Suites; others were refreshed with soft furnishings in new patterns from top-of-the-line textile houses. Guests who have stayed in the East Beach, Block Island and Spa Suites will know Borghesi’s work, which includes trendsetting color palettes, state-ofthe-art Bose sound components, and all-new furnishings. As with the choices for the hotel's opening seven years ago, this redo is luxurious, while at the same time it reflects the relaxed and unfussy nature of the very best in getaway
FRESH WAVE Colors of the sea, sand and sky play a major role in the furnishings and trimmings, while old favorites such as vintage postcards in new frames make a reappearance.
Mo
ore H C 1 4 9 B
ux
B lu
PAINT: Ben
ja
in
n to
m
test of the redesign concepts. After guests who had stayed in the updated rooms responded to their preview of prospective changes, particulars of the renovation were confirmed and planning went into high gear. Because the improvements required top-to-bottom alterations in every guest room, as well as refreshed looks for Ocean House Signature Suites, the logistics were somewhat daunting. The design team and contractors had a narrow window for the actual transformation. “Our task was to flip everything within three weeks,” says Borghesi, who with Hostettler showed up on-site before dawn each morning to oversee the installation. Ocean House closed from late February 2017 through mid-March 2017 to make the transition possible in an off-peak time of year. “The night we closed, we spent hours completing the first task, which was to label everything in the guest rooms as ‘stay’ or ‘go,’ with the edited items trucked away for a giant warehouse sale,” she remembers. “Then the transformation began.” While the guest room baths retain all their elegant and original details, including premium
e
PATTERNS: Auden woven from Schumacher; Titchfield floral from Lee Jofa FEATURED ROOM: Deluxe Studio
OHMCOLLECTION.COM
67_71_OH FALL.WINTER.SEASIDE.MUSE_OH 2017.indd 69
69
10/11/17 11:27 AM
UNIQUE LOOKS
Mo
ore 31 0 Po p
Below: Custom beds are crafted in cherry wood with an elegant porter finish.
refined patterns are important to the overall effect. Rooms now feature poster beds made in an exclusive-to-Ocean-House design of porterstained cherry wood, and upholstered storage benches at the foot of each bed. New fabrics, coordinated with an expert eye, are everywhere. There are new coverings for bedding, chairs, benches and cushions, plus updated window treatments. Those who appreciate the qualities of top-notch textiles will note the generous application of prestige brands such as Lee Jofa, Scalamandre and Stark in the blend of soft
co r
rn e l
PAINT: Ben
Ke
ja
in
Above: Wave-shaped mantel brackets are one custom touch for the fireplaces in this guest suite.
n
m
Touches that set Ocean House apart, including beautifully crafted woodwork, remain in the decor, as do the original luxurious baths. Custom beds were designed for the hotel and are covered in new luxury linens.
accommodations. “For the East Beach Suite, I remember driving by a shop and seeing the chestnut wood that later became a custom tabletop, the centerpiece of the new dining area. It was so exciting to see each space come together,” says Borghesi. With new furniture organized by design schemes in the garage at Ocean House, contractors filled in the background. They installed new tile flooring in a pattern that duplicates wood in the foyer of every guest room, providing each entry with a distinct arrival space. Beautiful new carpet was installed in the living areas of each room. The paint crew applied fresh wall and trim colors; painted wood blinds were installed on terrace doors. Then it was time for the move-in. “The whole process was a labor of love,” notes Hostettler. “What we wanted to do was maintain the original design vision for the hotel, one of supremely comfortable and relaxed luxury, that our guests enjoy and appreciate. What we really did was update each space, with a thoughtful nod to current styles, and such modern technical improvements as new radios and flat-screen televisions.” Upon arrival, Ocean House guests will find a refreshed look with some subtle changes that speak to the latest in design trends. While not minimalist by any stretch, clean lines and
PATTERNS: Hawthorne Herringbone and Chinoiserie Floral, both from Thibaut FEATURED ROOMS: Atlantic Suite (top), Terrace Double (right)
70 OHMCOLLECTION.COM
67_71_OH FALL.WINTER.SEASIDE.MUSE_OH 2017.indd 70
10/11/17 11:28 AM
LIGHT & AIR
Mo
ore 226 Twis
te d
Top and above: The lighter side of the new palette suggests the pastel colors of seashells that dot the shore along the beach at Ocean House.
furnishings. Since nearly everyone now carries one or more personal electronic devices, the new bedside tables have been designed with built-in receptacles for phone-charging cords or other electronics. A few favorite pieces have been buffed and returned to the rooms. Vanity tables are now painted white to show off their cabinetry details; original lamps are also back. Framed vintage postcards—a detail beloved by many
Ocean House guests—have been replaced with “new” old cards. “This was no small undertaking in itself,” says Borghesi. “Because the cards have been a feature in every guest room, there were 352 to change out.” At the end of three weeks, as window treatments went up and the process of moving furnishings wound down to a trickle—there was the matter of the sleeper sofa that needed to be lifted by crane through a window opening— Brittany did a final walk-through to tweak any details that may have been missed in the flurry of activity. Now that the work is over, the verdict of the guests reflects the intent of the project: The rooms look, feel, and function as comfortably and beautifully as ever. Ocean House management could not be more pleased. “Our goal was for guests to walk in and know that the rooms had been redone, but not have them feel so very different from the original vision of seven years ago,” says Hostettler. “I think we’ve achieved that.”
Pa th
PAINT: Ben
ak
ja
in
O
m
Architectural details make each room distinct. Window and terrace openings give each guest room a unique perspective of the spectacular surroundings.
PATTERNS: La Plage Rustica from Pindler & Pindler, Pulbrook Bouquet by Scalamandre FEATURED ROOMS: Grand Deluxe Ocean View (left), Deluxe King (top)
OHMCOLLECTION.COM
67_71_OH FALL.WINTER.SEASIDE.MUSE_OH 2017.indd 71
71
10/11/17 11:28 AM
FALL & WINTER ANNUAL
by RACHEL VOLANTE
SOCIAL CALENDAR THE FALL & WINTER ANNUAL
Our resorts have planned a full calendar of events and experiences for the fall and winter seasons, designed especially to create lifelong memories for guests
72 OHMCOLLECTION.COM
72_87_OH FALL.WINTER.CALENDAR of EVENTS_OH2017.indd 72
10/11/17 12:02 PM
WINE & CULINARY ARTS
For the budding wine expert and food aficionado, Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn offer Wine & Culinary Arts events. This yearround series offers an inside look at the farmto-table philosophy with hands-on culinary courses, farm–fresh wine and beer dinners, and wine education seminars.
FARM & VINE DINNER SERIES
Utilizing fresh, seasonal ingredients from a local farm, notable chefs from across the country join forces with the Ocean House culinary team to craft exquisite four-course meals that are carefully paired with wines from distinguished wineries around the world.
FROM VINE TO WINE SERIES
Once a month Ocean House hosts a weekend focused on wine. Meet the sommelier at an intimate wine-and-cheese reception on Friday evening. Discuss the chosen topic and sample a selection at a seminar on Saturday.
IN THE KITCHEN CULINARY EDUCATION SERIES
On select Saturdays each month, join the Ocean House food forager for our In the Kitchen Culinary Education Series. Work hands-on with members of the culinary team in the Center for Wine & Culinary Arts as you master the art of the soufflé, hone your Christmas cookie decorating skills and much more. Take home an Ocean House apron and recipes as keepsakes from your experience.
OCEAN HOUSE CULINARY BOOT CAMP
Black & White Ball
With Ocean House chefs as your guides, take your cooking skills to the next level during this intensive culinary weekend. Master a repertoire of classic techniques, then take home recipes and an Ocean House apron.
THE BREWMASTER’S SOCIAL SERIES
At Weekapaug Inn, you can enjoy New England’s bounty in season, plus ice-cold beer pairings, during an immersive culinary experience. The series highlights a different local brewery at each event. Familystyle courses are expertly paired with a complementing craft beer.
OH! SPA
The OH! Spa, a Forbes five-star destination and recipient of Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Award, forages ingredients from the ocean and land for treatments at this seaside sanctuary. This is the place for rejuvenation, wellness or just a well-deserved day of pampering.
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
There are a variety of Music & Entertainment programs offered for guests at both our resorts. Spirited Broadway serenades are scheduled on the South Lawn, colorful cabaret performances are put on in the Drawing Room, and love songs can be heard on the Pond where guests sit under the moonlight.
MOVIE NIGHTS
Come one, come all! Find your seat in the Ocean House Screening Room and enjoy the show with freshly popped popcorn and sweet treats from Below Deck.
CABARET SERIES
Experience a musical evening filled with drama and song as talented performers take the stage.
SIGNATURE EVENTS
The most talked-about musical and culinary affairs are our annual Signature Events, and they’re not to be missed. Enjoy gourmet cuisine, musical entertainment and a spectacular setting at events you’ll remember for years to come.
OHMCOLLECTION.COM
72_87_OH FALL.WINTER.CALENDAR of EVENTS_OH2017.indd 73
73
10/11/17 12:02 PM
FALL & WINTER ANNUAL
A classic New England custom, our lobster boils and clambakes highlight the best of dining by the sea. Enjoy traditionally prepared seafood from local waters and mouthwatering BBQ beside Quonochontaug Pond at Weekapaug Inn or on Ocean House’s private beach.
SALON SERIES
From intimate concerts to one-act plays, Ocean House offers the perfect setting for an evening of sophisticated entertainment, complete with coffee and dessert.
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
On select weekends, we invite talented local artists to showcase their work and paint en plein air with Ocean House as their muse. Guests are invited to interact with the artists as they find
the perfect spot on our grounds to create their masterpieces.
OCEAN HOUSE
NATURALIST
Explore nature’s wonders with expert guidance from Weekapaug Inn’s resident naturalist. Comb the beach for treasures, identify native creatures in the salt pond or take in the beauty of a full moon with new friends. In any season, the Inn offers a variety of programs and events that allow you to discover the natural beauty of our surroundings.
CELEBRATIONS AND HOLIDAYS
Allow our team to take care of the details this holiday. Join us for celebrations large and small—on Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve—and enjoy inspired cuisine, five-star service and good old-fashioned fun.
Clambake at Weekapaug Inn
1 NOV.
Ocean House invites Chef Caleb Lara from Kemble Inn to create hors d’oeuvres and a three-course dinner using ingredients from Red Apple Butchers, paired with wines from Siduri Winery. 7:00 p.m. Reception, 7:30 p.m. Dinner in COAST; $95/ person (plus tax and gratuity)
cheese reception Friday evening. On Saturday, dine with winemaker Jonathan Edwards, get an exclusive tour of his winery, and craft your own unique blend with expert guidance from the Ocean House sommelier. Enjoy a decadent meal at COAST as you share your blend with the group. Before departing, enjoy our Jazz Brunch on Sunday. $1,850/ single occupancy, $2,250/ double occupancy (plus tax and gratuity)
3-5 NOV.
4 NOV.
WINE & CULINARY ARTS
WINE & CULINARY ARTS
Wine Camp Weekend
In the Kitchen Culinary Education Series: Cooking with Booze
WINE & CULINARY ARTS
Farm & Vine Dinner Featuring Caleb Lara from Kemble Inn
Take part in a hands-on wine experience at Ocean House. Begin the weekend with an intimate wine and
Join the food forager for a day of cooking with alcohol.
TOP RIGHT BY GEORGE ROSS
LOBSTER BOILS, BBQS & CLAMBAKES
74 OHMCOLLECTION.COM
72_87_OH FALL.WINTER.CALENDAR of EVENTS_OH2017.indd 74
10/11/17 12:02 PM