Restoring Galveston: The Inn

Michael and Ashley start construction on their 1912 inn, focusing on the exterior of the building to get it watertight and restored to its former glory. Renovations include new paint, a custom front door and an awning wrapped in copper.

Attention turns to the entrance, lounge and bar area at the inn. Here, guests will find cozy vintage touches and custom elements including upholstered benches, a leathered marble bar and new cabinetry with the original doors found at the inn.

Michael and Ashley start tackling the outside of the inn, creating a relaxing oasis with cabanas and a pool. They keep the vintage theme going by wrapping the pool in 100-year-old brick and creating a custom bar cart made from an old metal horse trough.

Michael and Ashley strike a balance of vintage restoration and custom carpentry to transform the suites at the inn. Each one receives a handmade bed, vanity and coffee bar -- from the cozy single rooms to the grand suites with living rooms attached. 

Michael and Ashley create a unique first impression as they restore the entryway. Old newspapers create a timeline of the inn in the hallway, and they install vintage P.O. Box doors for guests to open and find their keys behind as they check in.

Finishing touches go all around the inn as they count down to opening day. It's a race to finish the last suite, set up the boutique with their custom modular shelving, and add the vintage metal fire pit Ashley welded herself.

Coming 12/29 Michael and Ashley Cordray make their largest investment ever with a 25-room boarding house built in 1912. Managing a strict deadline and lots of unforeseen complications, they'll transform it into a one-of-a-kind hotel.

Michael and Ashley Cordray make their largest investment ever with a 25-room boarding house built in 1912. Managing a strict deadline and lots of unforeseen complications, they'll transform it into a one-of-a-kind hotel.

Michael and Ashley Cordray make their largest investment ever with a 25-room boarding house built in 1912. Managing a strict deadline and lots of unforeseen complications, they'll transform it into a one-of-a-kind hotel.