With expertise in designing and building homes in Bethany Beach, Delaware, a designer creates a custom, coastal-inspired home that’s perfect for generational living.

BY AUTUMN KRAUSE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANA HOFF

SPACE FOR FAMILY. The main family room is located to the immediate left of the entry and is geared for hosting. “We wanted to keep this space open so you can easily entertain in one big area from kitchen to living room,” Marnie says.

MADE FOR MUD (OR SAND). A mudroom is an ideal place for the owners to keep all their beach accessories like flip-flops, towels, hats, etc. It sits off the kitchen with a washer and dryer nearby. The homeowners also wanted a place to keep chips and cereal off the counter and tucked away, so the tall cabinets on the right are a pantry for extra food storage.

Bethany Beach, Delaware, is a beautiful coastal town that offers pristine expanses of sand and beaches lined with boardwalks. It’s the sort of place that encourages connection with nature and each other. However, those seeking their own little corner of this coastal retreat must contend with Bethany Beach’s building restrictions. Enter Marnie Oursler, President of Marnie Custom Homes. Marnie’s company specializes in designing and building homes in Bethany Beach. “Each home presents a new challenge,” she says. “Each homeowner has different needs, and I have to fit their wish list into a constricted space that’s based on the city’s lot and height regulations.” She’s been the saving grace for many—including a couple who sought a second home in Bethany Beach.

CURB APPEAL. Marnie and her team designed and built the entire home. “This is one exterior I get asked about over and over again because of its many architectural details, which include an arched porch entry, tampered porch columns, oversized glass front door, and cedar shingles with sweeps that add an architectural flair,” Marnie says. A pop of color is provided by Benjamin Moore Antique Glass paint. When the home is lit up at night, you can see the gorgeous chandelier from the two-story sitting room.