Watch Hill, RI

The Ocean House landscape is a dynamic contrast between formal outdoor event spaces and adjacent naturally landscaped areas that blend seamlessly with the native coastal buffer vegetation.

Built in 1868, the Ocean House was one of five grand Watch Hill hotels. Over time, the building had fallen into disrepair, the landscape was subject to flooding and natural damage, and both required demolition and restoration. The historic structure has been recreated into a first-class hotel with residences. The Ocean House restoration reflects its storied past while respecting modern code requirements, building practices, and luxuries, and began a longstanding partnership between Richter & Cegan and the Ocean House.

The picturesque grounds feature a championship croquet court, an events lawn with terrace garden, culinary herb garden, coastal buffer and dune restoration areas, a beach walk with boardwalk access to the water, and a beach pavilion, all with stunning views of Block Island Sound. The variety and complexity of outdoor spaces, architectural detailing, and landscape materials and plant palette selections complement the building’s historic character and unique oceanside setting.