Hilton’s new Ocean City, Maryland hotel offers a modern, memorable guest experience rooted in local context and culture.
The Hilton Garden Inn Ocean City Oceanfront fully renovated property boasts a plethora of amenities including an indoor pool, a 300-foot-long deck overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, a fitness centre, café, oceanfront restaurant and bar, and 3,000 square feet of meeting and event space.
In collaboration with OTO Development, Washington, D.C.-based //3877 was tapped as the design architect, architect of record and interior designer for the project, which included the complete transformation of an existing beachfront property.
The building’s original features, including Victorian-inspired elements, light wainscoting and intricate ceiling molding inspired the //3877 team throughout the design development phase. Modern elements are infused throughout the project, grounding it in a sense of place through nods to the surrounding area, including a neutral finish palette with a coastal atmosphere featuring hues of blue reminiscent of iconic Maryland crabs. Porcelain wood-look tile provides a residential feel while pops of colour in the artwork and textiles add a notable energy to the space.
All of the 170 guest rooms overlook the Atlantic Ocean, allowing visitors to soak in the beachfront views from en-suite balconies. Situated just one block from Ocean City’s famed boardwalk, this Hilton Garden Inn provides a unique offering to the market with an upscale design that extends from the lobby into each guest room. The rooms feature regionally inspired art, a staple element of the Hilton brand, as well as subtle local style such as nautical light cords for anchor-shaped wall sconces. Soft, comfortable furniture with clean lines and coastal touches provides a residential feel that makes guests feel right at home.
A custom-built reception desk is highlighted by an overhead art installation by Jeff Auxer of Berlin, Maryland, featuring nearly 200 glass plates that mimic the look of a school of fish. Sculptural lighting in the space doubles as artwork by use of organic forms and interwoven textures; these fixtures are utilised in combination with architectural details reminiscent of undulating waves in order to create dynamic ceiling elements.
The double-height lobby features a striking central staircase with intricate millwork on the railings rounded at the top and bottom, creating a modern, curved look. At their feet, guests will notice the ombre effect of the tiles gradually shifting from cream to blue as they travel further toward the back of the hotel –– a playful moment of discovery that draws patrons out toward the direction of the beach. To the right on the main level, a café serves up ice cream to beachgoers, an ode to the classic Ocean City mentality.
Overhead, an intriguing, abstract ceiling installation resembles the sand dunes of the beach, creating depth and texture. Floor-to-ceiling windows on the ocean-front side of the property give way to an expansive porch that extends the length of the building, a hub of activity and relaxation for guests. Rocking chairs on the deck feature soft linen textures, immersing guests in the surrounding coastal environment.
An indoor-outdoor bar connects both environments while balancing a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. The bar opens up the restaurant space with natural light and clear sightlines to the water. The honest material mentality of the space curates a distinct sense of place, accented by a rope ceiling installation reminiscent of the nearby marine life.
A stunning private dining room is closed off from the rest of the space by a millwork screen of driftwood complemented by similar tones on the back walls. Throughout the space, the use of colourful tiles provides subtle patterns with enhanced texture that is balanced by the neutral colour palette.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk (without compromising on easy access to the lively, historic beach town), Hilton Garden Inn Ocean City Oceanfront provides a quiet respite for any beachgoer, from couples and friends to traveling families and locals alike. With a distinct design language that pays homage to the iconic shoreline, the renovation establishes the hotel as a thriving destination for years to come.
