Ben & Erin Napier Get Update on HGTV Show Hotel Ravaged by Fire
Ben & Erin Napier’s HGTV Show Faces Setback After Hotel Fire
In August 2025, Ben and Erin Napier, beloved stars of HGTV’s Home Town franchise, announced their new show titled *Home Town: Inn This Together*. The series was set to chronicle their efforts to renovate the historic Heirloom Hotel, a 1930s Kress building located in downtown Laurel, Mississippi. Unfortunately, just a week after the announcement, tragedy struck when a fire ravaged the hotel, causing extensive damage and putting the project’s future in jeopardy.
The Napiers had teamed up with their friends Mallorie and Jim Rasberry, along with Emily and Josh Nowell, to breathe new life into the dilapidated hotel. The building was on the cusp of reopening when the fire broke out on August 26, 2025. Erin Napier took to Instagram shortly after the incident, expressing uncertainty about what would come next for the show and the community. She wrote, “I don’t know what will happen next or if you’ll ever get to see this @hgtv show now. I don’t know much of anything. It is hard to explain how this reverberates through our town and its progress in many ways. But I know God has a plan for this setback. He always knows the way, even when we don’t.”
Rebuilding Efforts Begin: The Team’s Determination to Restore the Heirloom Hotel
Despite the devastating blow, Ben and Erin Napier, along with their friends and crew, have not given up on the project. On September 27, Josh Nowell shared a video on his HeirloomBuilder Instagram page, showing the team back at work inside the fire-damaged hotel. The video captures Josh walking through the charred remains, preparing to tear down walls and floors that had taken a year and a half to build.
Josh candidly acknowledges the difficulty of the task ahead, saying, “We’re about to tear out everything that we spent a year and a half to build. The good news is, it’s a lot easier to tear it out than it is to build it, though it sucks.” In another post, Josh answered the question of how to demolish a four-story building, explaining, “One piece at a time,” while demonstrating the painstaking process in a video.
Jim Rasberry, one of the project’s key figures, was also seen among the ruins, donning a hard hat and reflecting on the long road ahead. His caption included a Bible verse and a message of gratitude for the support of his longtime friend, highlighting the strength of the team’s bond during this challenging time.
Earlier in September, the crew had already expressed their commitment to continuing the renovation despite the setback. A post from September 2 read, “Round two… It’s never easy to start over, maybe even harder the second time, but we believe this town and these people are worth every ounce of our effort. ✨ #TheHeirloom.” Erin Napier shared this message on her Instagram Stories, reinforcing the team’s resolve to rebuild.
The Significance of the Heirloom Hotel to Laurel, Mississippi
The Heirloom Hotel is more than just a building; it is a symbol of Laurel’s rich history and community spirit. Originally constructed in the 1930s as a Kress department store, the structure had fallen into disrepair over the decades. The renovation project led by the Napiers and their friends aimed to transform the hotel into a vibrant gathering place, contributing to the revitalization of downtown Laurel.
The fire was a major setback not only for the renovation team but also for the entire town. The Napiers have been vocal about their deep connection to Laurel and their desire to see the community thrive. Their dedication to restoring the Heirloom Hotel reflects their commitment to preserving the town’s heritage while creating new opportunities for growth and tourism.
What’s Next for Ben & Erin Napier and the Heirloom Hotel?
While the future of the HGTV show *Home Town: Inn This Together* remains uncertain, the Napiers and their team are moving forward with determination. The rebuilding process will be long and challenging, but their resilience and passion for the project are evident.
Fans of Ben and Erin Napier can continue to follow the progress through social media updates, where the team shares candid moments from the construction site and insights into the restoration journey. The story of the Heirloom Hotel serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, perseverance, and hope in the face of adversity.
Supporting the Restoration Effort
For those inspired by the Napiers’ dedication and the story of the Heirloom Hotel, there are ways to support the ongoing restoration. Following the project’s social media channels, sharing updates, and spreading awareness can help keep the momentum alive. Additionally, local businesses and residents in Laurel continue to rally around the effort, showcasing the town’s united spirit.
As the team works “one piece at a time” to rebuild, their journey offers valuable lessons in resilience and the power of collaboration. The Heirloom Hotel’s revival will not only restore a historic landmark but also strengthen the fabric of the Laurel community for years to come.
Conclusion
The update on Ben and Erin Napier’s HGTV show *Home Town: Inn This Together* reveals a story of heartbreak, hope, and unwavering determination. Despite the devastating fire that ravaged the Heirloom Hotel, the Napiers and their team have recommitted themselves to rebuilding and restoring this treasured landmark. Their journey underscores the strength of community and the belief that setbacks can lead to new beginnings. Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring renovation project, and don’t forget to follow the Napiers’ progress on social media. If you’re passionate about historic preservation and community revitalization, consider supporting their efforts and sharing their story to help bring the Heirloom Hotel back to life.
