The Côte d’Azur is a dream location for homeowners—but coastal living comes with specific challenges. Salt air, intense sun, humidity, storms, and rapid temperature changes all impact the longevity and appearance of building materials. The wrong choices can lead to corrosion, fading, cracking, or costly repairs.
At Baie des Anges, we specialise in designing and renovating villas that thrive in Mediterranean coastal conditions. Here are our expert recommendations for choosing materials that combine beauty, durability, and Riviera elegance.
1. Choose Coastal-Resistant Metals for Structure & Details
Metal elements in coastal homes are especially vulnerable to salt corrosion.
Best options:
✔ Powder-coated aluminium — ideal for windows, pergolas, railings
✔ Stainless steel (marine grade 316) — extremely durable for outdoor kitchens and fixtures
✔ Galvanised steel — suitable for structural elements when protected
✔ Brass or bronze — ages beautifully and resists corrosion
Avoid:
✘ untreated steel
✘ cheap iron fixtures
✘ low-grade stainless steel
These deteriorate rapidly near the sea.
2. Opt for High-Quality Windows & Glazing
Coastal winds, UV rays, and humidity require strong, high-performance glazing.
Baie des Anges recommends:
- aluminium window frames (low maintenance, corrosion-resistant)
- double or triple glazing for insulation
- UV-protective glass
- salt-resistant hardware
- large sliding or pocket doors for indoor–outdoor flow
Quality glazing dramatically improves comfort and energy efficiency.
3. Select Durable, Non-Porous Flooring Materials
Flooring must withstand humidity, sunlight, sand, and heavy use.
Best flooring options:
✔ Porcelain tile (non-porous, UV-resistant, anti-slip)
✔ Natural stone (limestone, travertine, granite—with proper sealing)
✔ Microcement (modern look, seamless, water-resistant)
✔ Composite decking (for terraces and pool areas)
Use with caution:
✘ untreated wood
✘ polished marble (slippery outdoors)
✘ soft limestone without sealing
Baie des Anges selects materials specifically suited for Mediterranean climate cycles.
4. Pick Exterior Finishes That Withstand Sun & Humidity
Façades are exposed to intense environmental stress.
Preferred exterior finishes:
- mineral or lime-based plasters (breathable, elegant, traditional)
- high-quality exterior paints with UV protection
- stone cladding for durability and charm
- textured microcement for modern minimalism
Avoid:
✘ low-grade acrylic paints
✘ synthetic coatings that trap moisture
Breathability is essential in warm, humid climates.
5. Use Moisture-Resistant Materials in Bathrooms & Kitchens
Humidity levels in coastal homes are consistently higher.
Best materials:
- microcement walls and floors
- porcelain tiles
- stone countertops
- marine-grade cabinetry hardware
- treated wood finishes
Baie des Anges ensures all bathroom and kitchen materials are water-resistant and mould-resistant.
6. Choose Exterior Woods Carefully
When wood is desired for warmth and texture, species selection and treatment matter.
Best outdoor woods:
✔ Teak — naturally resistant to moisture
✔ Thermo-treated ash or pine — stable and durable
✔ Ipe or other tropical hardwoods — robust but costly
✔ Accoya — engineered for longevity in coastal environments
Avoid:
✘ untreated pine
✘ softwoods without thermal treatment
Proper sealing and annual maintenance extend durability.
7. Prioritise UV-Resistant Fabrics & Outdoor Textiles
The Mediterranean sun fades and weakens low-quality textiles.
Best options:
- solution-dyed acrylic fabrics (e.g., Sunbrella®)
- outdoor-rated cushions and upholstery
- mildew-resistant materials
- removable, washable covers
These textiles maintain colour and structure for years.
8. Use Rust-Resistant Fixtures, Hinges & Fastenings
Small details matter—rust spreads quickly in coastal zones.
Recommended materials:
✔ stainless steel (316)
✔ anodised aluminium
✔ brass or bronze
Avoid low-cost interior-grade hardware outdoors.
9. Select Outdoor Tiles & Stones with Anti-Slip Treatment
Safety is essential around pools and terraces.
Ideal choices:
- anti-slip porcelain
- brushed or textured limestone
- travertine with non-gloss finish
- flamed granite
Polished surfaces become slippery when wet and unsafe near pools.
10. Consider Maintenance Requirements Before Choosing Materials
A material may be beautiful—but is it practical long-term?
Baie des Anges helps clients evaluate:
- sealing frequency
- UV resistance
- cleaning difficulty
- humidity and salt impact
- long-term repair costs
The best material is one that looks elegant and performs exceptionally for decades.
Material Selection with Baie des Anges: Quality Meets Riviera Expertise
Choosing the right materials is essential to building or renovating a coastal home that is both beautiful and resilient.
With Baie des Anges, you benefit from:
✔ deep knowledge of Mediterranean climate challenges
✔ premium, long-lasting material recommendations
✔ coastal-resistant structural solutions
✔ modern and traditional Mediterranean aesthetics
✔ turnkey design and construction guidance
✔ exceptional long-term durability
We help homeowners create Riviera properties that stay beautiful year after year—without the maintenance headaches.