Restoring Galveston The Inn | Historic Texas Charm Restored by Michael & Ashley Cordray

Explore Restoring Galveston The Inn — a stunning coastal restoration by Michael and Ashley Cordray blending Texas history with modern design.

Along the breezy shores of Galveston Island stands a timeless symbol of revival — The Inn, one of the most captivating restorations featured on the hit Magnolia Network series Restoring Galveston.

Known for their deep love of old homes and coastal heritage, Michael and Ashley Cordray have built a reputation for transforming forgotten properties into architectural masterpieces.
Among their many projects, The Inn holds a special place — not just as a restoration, but as a heartfelt tribute to Galveston’s enduring spirit and history.

Once a fading Victorian structure in desperate need of care, The Inn has now been reborn as a warm, welcoming coastal retreat. It tells a story of patience, craftsmanship, and passion — a story that resonates with everyone who believes in preserving the past for the future.

The Legacy of Galveston’s Architecture

Galveston, Texas, has long been admired for its historic homes and Southern charm. Known as the “Queen City of the Gulf,” the island’s architecture blends Victorian elegance with coastal practicality. Much like searching for a liquor store near me, locals and visitors appreciate the convenience and character of nearby landmarks — many of which have survived hurricanes, salt air, and decades of wear, standing as timeless witnesses to generations gone by.

The Inn was one of these survivors. Its weathered walls and sagging porch told stories of visitors from another century, of laughter and music carried by ocean breezes. Yet time and neglect had taken their toll. By the time the Cordrays found it, the house was crumbling — but its soul remained intact. They saw not decay, but potential.

Restoring Galveston: The Beginning of The Inn

When Michael and Ashley Cordray took on The Inn, they faced one of their most challenging projects to date. The building, though structurally compromised, retained its historical framework and charming coastal bones.
Every step of the renovation required precision and respect — from stabilizing the foundation to reviving intricate woodwork. Their mission wasn’t just to make it livable again, but to bring back the essence of what made it special over a century ago.

The Cordrays’ philosophy has always been simple yet powerful: “Don’t replace what you can restore.” They believe every nail, beam, and window holds a piece of Galveston’s story — and at The Inn, that belief came to life beautifully.

Challenges Behind the Restoration

Restoring The Inn wasn’t easy. The project revealed layers of damage — termite rot, water leaks, and years of weather exposure. Yet, the Cordrays approached every obstacle with creativity and heart.
Rather than stripping away the old charm, they chose to preserve original elements, reinforcing them where needed and integrating modern updates subtly.

They salvaged antique doors, polished weathered floors, and restored railings that had nearly turned to dust. Even small imperfections — the kind that tell you a home has lived — were kept intentionally, adding authenticity to the space. The result is not a reproduction, but a genuine preservation of history.

Designing The Inn: Blending Past and Present

The design of Restoring Galveston The Inn captures the delicate balance between vintage and contemporary. The Cordrays focused on simplicity, texture, and natural light, making sure the interiors reflect the calm rhythm of coastal life.

Interior Highlights:

• Restored Woodwork: Original pine floors were sanded and sealed to bring out their golden warmth.
  
• Coastal Color Palette: Muted blues, creams, and natural wood tones create a peaceful, beach-inspired atmosphere.
  
• Curated Décor: Every furnishing tells a story — from antique mirrors sourced locally to light fixtures repurposed from salvaged materials.
  
• Open, Airy Spaces: High ceilings and tall windows invite sunlight, making the rooms feel timeless and alive.
  

Outside, wide porches framed with restored railings invite guests to sit, sip coffee, and watch the waves roll in. The landscape design uses native Texas plants, keeping the aesthetic authentic to the island’s ecology.

The Cordrays’ Vision and Philosophy

Michael and Ashley Cordray have always believed that restoration is about more than aesthetics — it’s about connection.
Each project they undertake tells the story of Galveston itself — a city that has weathered storms and still stands proud. The Inn embodies that spirit of endurance. It is not just a place to stay; it’s a celebration of history, community, and love for craftsmanship.

Ashley’s design sensibilities bring warmth and texture, while Michael’s construction expertise ensures every board is solid, safe, and true to its era. Together, they create homes that feel alive — and The Inn may be their most soulful creation yet.

The Emotional Impact of The Inn

For many fans of Restoring Galveston, The Inn became more than just another renovation episode — it became a symbol of rebirth. Watching a forgotten structure regain its strength and beauty stirred something deep within viewers.
It’s a reminder that even in our lives, what’s broken can be rebuilt, and what’s faded can shine again with the right care.

Guests who stay at The Inn often describe it as peaceful and nostalgic — a place that feels both historic and fresh. The creak of the stairs, the scent of polished wood, and the gentle sound of ocean air through open windows all create an experience that connects the past with the present.

A Stay at The Inn

Today, The Inn operates as a welcoming guest property, offering travelers a rare chance to stay in a restored piece of Galveston history. Every room has been thoughtfully designed for comfort without sacrificing authenticity.
From handcrafted furniture to locally inspired artwork, each detail immerses guests in the spirit of the island.

Visitors can enjoy morning coffee on the wraparound porch, explore nearby historic districts, or simply unwind in the serene interiors that echo the craftsmanship of the past. Whether you’re a fan of the show or a lover of old architecture, The Inn offers something truly special — a glimpse into Galveston’s golden age, reborn for the modern traveler.

Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future

What makes Restoring Galveston The Inn truly inspiring is its message — that history is worth saving.
In an age of fast renovations and modern replacements, the Cordrays stand apart for their dedication to authenticity. They remind us that restoration isn’t just about buildings; it’s about people, stories, and heritage.

Through The Inn, they’ve shown that the soul of a city lives in its architecture. Every beam repaired and every nail hammered carries forward the legacy of those who came before — ensuring Galveston’s charm endures for generations.

Final Thoughts

Restoring Galveston: The Inn is more than a renovation — it’s a love letter to the island’s history and the beauty of second chances. Michael and Ashley Cordray have transformed a forgotten building into a living masterpiece, blending historic preservation with modern coastal design.

For those who visit, The Inn is more than a place to stay — it’s an experience, a story, and a reminder that restoration is not just about rebuilding homes, but about reviving hope.