Home Town: Inn This Together: The Heartbreak and Hope Behind Laurel, Mississippi’s Heirloom Hotel

For fans of Laurel, Mississippi, the name Erin and Ben Napier is synonymous with revival. Their mission to breathe life back into their hometown has inspired millions, but their most ambitious project to date has taken an unexpected and emotional turn. In the new HGTV series, “Home Town: Inn This Together,” the couple takes on a challenge that transcends simple home renovation: the restoration of the iconic Heirloom Hotel.

The Heirloom Hotel: A Dream 40 Years in the Making

The Heirloom Hotel wasn’t just another building; it was a symbol of Laurel’s history. Once a bustling Kress department store, the structure had stood vacant and dilapidated for four decades. For the Napiers, this was the missing piece of the puzzle in their effort to revitalize downtown Laurel.

“It doesn’t matter how much progress we see in downtown Laurel. As long as its most iconic building stands vacant and empty and dilapidated, we will not feel like we’ve really done something,” Erin Napier shared, highlighting the emotional weight of the project.

The project was a massive undertaking in terms of square footage and investment. The goal was to create a 29-room boutique hotel that would serve as the “gem” of the city, featuring:

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• A meticulously restored boutique hotel experience.
• A ground-floor retail space fully stocked and ready for business.
• A professional cooking school designed to host culinary events.

The Unthinkable Tragedy: Fire and Setbacks

Just as the finishing touches were being applied and the grand opening seemed within reach, disaster struck. On August 26, 2025, a freak accidental fire broke out in the early morning hours. The HGTV stars and their team watched as their hard work was threatened by a blaze that took nearly two hours to contain.

While the Laurel and Ellisville Fire Departments prevented injuries, the building suffered significant fire and water damage. An investigation later determined the cause was an electrical issue. Now, the community and the Napiers are left in a state of “waiting,” as they navigate insurance claims and determine the possibility of a rebuild.

A Legacy of Love in Laurel, Mississippi

Beyond the hotel, the Napiers have transformed Laurel into a destination for fans of design and small-town charm. Their influence is felt throughout the city through various ventures and spinoffs like “Home Town Takeover” and “Home Town: Ben’s Workshop.”

Visitors to Laurel, Mississippi can experience the “Home Town” magic firsthand by visiting:

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• Laurel Mercantile: A curated spot for unique gifts and kitchenware.
• The Scent Library: A haven for luxury candles and home fragrances.
• The Scotsman General Store: A nostalgic stop for jams, coffee, and a glimpse into Ben’s woodworking craft.

The project was a labor of love shared among a tight-knit group of friends and family, including Joshua Nowell, Emily Nowell, Mallorie Rasberry, and Jim Rasberry, who shared a vision of bringing a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere to their hometown.

How to Watch the Finale

The emotional journey of the Heirloom Hotel culminates in the series finale. If you want to see the full story of the restoration and the aftermath of the fire, make sure to tune in:

📅 Date: Sunday, May 31
⏰ Time: 7 p.m. CT
📺 Channel: HGTV

Can’t make it to the live broadcast? You can stream the episodes on HBO Max and discovery+ starting the following day.

Despite the tragedy, the spirit of Laurel remains unbroken. As the Heirloom Hotel’s team stated, “If the Lord’s willing, we will keep building!”