Blue Porcelain Tile Bathroom Reflects Colors of the Sea

Crafting a resilient and refined bathroom by the beach in Longport

Walls are covered in Heritage Luxe Azure, a blue porcelain material that sets the tone for the bathroom, designer Michelle Gerson says. Large square fluting distinguishes the custom walnut vanity.

Designing a bathroom that balances a seaside vibe with durability and masculinity presents a unique challenge — and opportunity. For the husband’s primary bath in this Longport beachfront home, designer Michelle Gerson embraced these elements to create a space that reflects the homeowners’ preferences and the natural beauty of the surroundings. “The client was very specific about how the space was used,” emphasizing that the tile and stone needed to be super durable, says Gerson of Michelle Gerson Interiors in New York City. The walls are clad in Heritage Luxe Azure — a striking blue porcelain tile that sets the tone for the space. “It’s a rich color that references the ocean nearby, exudes masculinity and looks luxe,” Gerson explains. Enhancing the space is the flooring — soft, pillowed Dolomiti tiles that feel great underfoot.

Functionality was a key design component. The walnut vanity, designed by Gerson and built by Ciuffo Cabinetry, features large square fluting and generous storage. “We wanted to create a profile that was interesting, not overdone, and masculine,” Gerson notes. To complete the look, she designed a mirror frame echoing the vanity’s detailing for cohesiveness. From the ocean-inspired color palette to the carefully selected materials, every element was chosen to craft a sophisticated, resilient retreat at the Jersey Shore.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article first appeared in the August/September 2025 issue of Design NJ under the headline “Seaside Sanctuary.”

For more on bathrooms in waterfront communities, see “Bathrooms with Character: Creating Impact,” “An Oceanport Primary Bathroom Features Classic Accents,” “Vacation Home Gets a Wow-Worthy Bathroom,” “Combining Contemporary and Coastal Aesthetics in a Primary Bathroom” and “Sea of Tranquility.”