Historic Aurora Inn to reopen following 3-year renovation led by Genevieve Gorder

The historic Aurora Inn Hotel & Event Center, an Ascend Hotel Collection Member, will reopen on October 13 after completing renovation coupled with its 90-year anniversary. 

Under the guidance of New York-based designer Genevieve Gorder, the three-year remodeling of the Western Reserve property combines elements of the last century with modern finishes.

The Aurora Inn first opened in 1927. Now under new ownership, the 66-room property is owned by Aurora Hotel Partners and managed by Portfolio Hotels & Resorts. 

Gorder, who hosts the “Dear Genevieve” show on the HGTV channel, was the lead designer in The Aurora Inn remodeling. She updated the Six Horses Tavern, The Cutting Board Restaurant, guestrooms, and event/banquet facilities. 

When the property reopens, the lobby will feature the hotel’s original brick flooring and oversized fireplace, while ceiling beams, doors, frames and crown molding uncovered during the renovation were restored. The inn’s color scheme includes shades of white, grey, black and off-black, with pops of color for contrast. There will also be handmade wooden armoires made by local Amish carpenters and sliding barndoor bathroom partitions.  

Located off the lobby is The Cutting Board Restaurant. Adjacent to The Cutting Board is Six Horses Tavern, named for the type of hitch used to harness the six horses which pulled the busy stage coach from the stop that once occupied this site. The Cutting Board will have tableside cooking, a rotating menu and brunch buffets on Sundays and holidays.  

Six Horses Tavern was restored, with the bar paying homage to its beginnings set in a new age, with dark wood and wrought iron fixtures mixed in with modern luxuries such as USB ports in the power outlets.

The newly renovated ballroom and veranda, also designed by Gorder, will have small crystals layered into the wallpaper, restored chandeliers and remodeled indoor space with vintage detail. The inn will also have a patio for cocktail receptions, as well as a new tented pavilion that can accommodate up to 350 people. 

For events, the property will have over 7,000 square feet of flexible space.

Jason Sandoval is the GM of the property.