A modern twist on vintage surf culture awaits at Moxy Virginia Beach Oceanfront, a nostalgic yet fresh beach-side retreat that captures the spirit of nostalgic summer days for the young and young-at-heart.
Set against the lively backdrop of Atlantic Avenue, the Moxy Virginia Beach Oceanfront is a dynamic, seven-story addition breathing new life into the city’s iconic boardwalk. The 134-key hotel combines vintage charm and contemporary flair, capturing a fresh take on classic surf culture in a contemporary retreat steeped in nostalgia. Design and experience go hand-in-hand, offering an immersive journey where playful aesthetics meet modern functionality, appealing to both the young and young-at-heart.
Born from the phrase “come play in our sandbox,” the property’s design brings whimsical and welcoming elements together in a bold reinterpretation of the boardwalk. Visitors are greeted by vibrant colors and unique touches that bridge the coastal heritage of Virginia Beach with Moxy’s youthful brand personality. Upon entry, seagulls soaring from the second story greet guests, while a two-story slide and playground-inspired picnic area set the tone for their stay.
A functioning Zoltar fortune-telling machine embodies a sense of fun, transporting guests to the summers of yesteryear. Octopus-themed features, including a mural and art installations, add whimsy and bring to life the property’s official animal mascot, a touchstone for the brand. In the lobby, unique vintage pieces like a Ferris wheel chair are featured, blending playful elements with a sustainable ethos by repurposing items in creative ways. By eschewing fleeting trends and drawing inspiration from Virginia Beach’s storied past, the design cements the property’s future appeal. It also fills a niche in the market by offering amenities that cater to younger travelers seeking stylish and affordable accommodations.
No detail was overlooked when it came to furniture and accessories. Meticulous research, the development of custom pieces, and extensive collaboration come together to convey the design concept. Vintage folding chairs that double as decor and seating hang stylishly from the walls when not in use. Custom versions of boardwalk lamp posts are strategically placed in columns, providing ample illumination and reinforcing the integrity of the exposed ceiling.
The property’s color palette features quintessential retro tones punctuated by modern pops of brightness, encapsulating the fusion of old-school beach culture with today’s tastes. Weathered woods, woven textures, warm concrete, blackened metal, and bronze patina contribute to a coastal aesthetic. This balanced palette enhances the natural connection between indoor and outdoor areas, establishing a fluid transition from hotel to beach.
“The vintage pieces are textured and weathered, physically bringing that worn-in, nostalgic effect into the here and now,” says Principal, Patricia Lopez, CID, NCIDQ, LEED AP. “It’s an invitation to reconnect with the simpler times of summers past.”
With its L-shaped design, the property optimizes ocean views and accessibility, inviting guests to embrace the surrounding landscape. The hotel’s spacious oceanfront patio invites guests and locals to gather and enjoy the coastal views.
“It’s the perfect place to kick back with a cocktail as the sun dips below the horizon—imagine colorful lounges, lawn games, and plenty of room to relax,” says Lopez. “And the open connection to the 12th Street Connector Park, bike path, and boardwalk endlessly extends the property’s outdoor experience, inviting guests to engage with the vibrant local scene.”
The property’s commitment to locality and respect for cultural legacy shine through its homage to a beloved Virginia Beach landmark—a beachfront diner that closed in 2019. The revived connected diner pays tribute through name, menu, and aesthetic, capturing the charm of a classic eatery where generations once gathered. Guests and locals alike can access the diner directly from the boardwalk, creating a seamless link between the hotel and the community.
The Moxy Virginia Beach Oceanfront received recognition from Boutique Design Magazine as a 2024 Gold Key Awards for Excellence in Hospitality Design Finalist in the Lobby Focused Service Category, celebrated for its imaginative and inviting lobby experience. The hotel was also awarded Honorable Mention in the Hospitality Category at the 2024 Interior Design Excellence Awards by ASID Virginia & IIDA Virginia/West Virginia, the 2024 Excellence in Development Design Award from HRACRE, and the 2024 Award for Design Excellence (Merit, Built Category) from AIA Orlando.
Project: Moxy Virginia Beach Oceanfront
Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA
Design Studio: Baskervill
Photo Credits: Isaac Maiselman & Kate Thompson
Website: baskervill.com
