Michael and Ashley Cordray are on a mission to breathe new life into centuries-old homes on the island of Galveston, Texas. As home renovation specialists, they focus on preserving the rich history and architectural charm of these properties while making them functional for modern living.
About Restoring Galveston
The show Restoring Galveston originally premiered under the title Big Texas Fix in its first season. Now rebranded as Restoring Galveston, the series continues to air with Michael and Ashley Cordray at the helm. Each episode showcases their journey to transform dilapidated historic homes into stunning residences that honor their original character while incorporating contemporary amenities.
A New Twist
Restoring Galveston is evolving to include more community involvement. The show is currently casting for homeowners in need within Galveston. To qualify, participants must own homes in need of restoration—not renters or landlords. This shift aims to directly impact the lives of local residents while preserving the island's architectural heritage.
With over 87K followers on Instagram, Michael and Ashley Cordray have built a strong online presence under the handle @save1900. Their work has resonated deeply with audiences who appreciate their dedication to preserving history through thoughtful renovations. You can follow their latest projects and behind-the-scenes moments by visiting their profile on Instagram.
Preserving History
Ashley and Michael Cordray’s passion extends beyond television; they own a real estate and renovation company specializing in restoring homes from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Based in Galveston, Texas, their work focuses on saving homes that are on the brink of destruction. By doing so, they aim to preserve the island's unique historical identity and architectural styles.
One of their notable achievements includes transforming a historic camelback home's attic into a cozy family space, as featured in the season premiere of Restoring Galveston. Their approach emphasizes functionality without compromising the historic beauty of each property.
Why Restore?
The couple believes that restored homes should not merely serve as museum pieces but should be lived in and enjoyed. To this end, they invite visitors to experience their beautifully renovated properties firsthand by staying in them during visits to Galveston.
Community Impact
Former graduates of Texas A&M University at Galveston, Ashley ('09) and Michael Cordray ('06), bring both personal and professional expertise to their endeavors. Through their efforts, they contribute significantly to the revitalization of their hometown. Their commitment to preservation aligns perfectly with the values promoted by networks like Magnolia TV, where the show airs.
In Season 7 of Restoring Galveston, viewers witness how Michael and Ashley tackle challenging projects with creativity and determination. Whether it's converting a 1912 boarding house into a luxurious boutique hotel or updating an old mansion for modern living, their transformations are nothing short of astounding.
Critical Acclaim
Restoring Galveston has garnered praise from critics and audiences alike for its authentic storytelling and genuine passion for preservation. Fans appreciate the balance between showcasing the intricate details of restoration and highlighting the human stories tied to each home.
Where to Watch
Subscribers can stream all episodes of Restoring Galveston on discovery+ or tune in via Magnolia Network. For those interested in purchasing one of the restored properties showcased on the show, the Cordrays operate Save 1900, a realty firm dedicated to selling these remarkable homes.
Legacy of Preservation
Through their work, Michael and Ashley Cordray inspire others to value and protect historic structures. They remind us that every home tells a story—and restoring these buildings ensures that those stories endure for future generations.
As the show continues to evolve, the Cordrays remain committed to giving old homes new life, proving that preservation and progress can go hand-in-hand in creating vibrant communities. If you haven't already, consider tuning in to Restoring Galveston—it might just spark your interest in the art of restoration.
