Built in 1959 during America's golden age of automobile travel, Colony House Motor Lodge has long been a beloved landmark on Roanoke's Franklin Road. Designed by the Salem architectural firm Kinsey & Motley, the property is one of Virginia's finest remaining examples of Googie architecture, the optimistic, forward-looking design style that defined an era of roadside travel and modern motels.
Originally developed by brothers Glover and Richard Trent, Colony House quickly became a destination for travelers discovering the Blue Ridge Mountains, families on road trips, business travelers, and performers passing through nearby Victory Stadium. Over the decades, generations of guests made memories here, helping establish the motor lodge as a cherished part of Roanoke's history. Notable visitors included Hall of Fame quarterback Johnny Unitas, Lou Rawls, and Herman's Hermits, among many others.
Photo from Virginia Record, November 1960
As travel habits evolved, so did the city around it. While many independent motor lodges disappeared, Colony House endured, remaining family owned and welcoming guests for nearly six decades before closing its doors in 2018.
In 2022, the Farrell family of Roanoke began an extensive historic restoration to transform the beloved classic motor lodge into a boutique hotel. Their goal was to preserve the original character of the 1950s architecture and interiors while creating a hotel that feels fresh, creative, comfortable and inviting. Original and vintage elements mix with period-inspired furnishings, bold patterns and modern amenities, emphasizing authenticity, quality and playfulness. Vintage automotive photography and other details reference both the hotel's history as a classic roadside motor lodge and the Farrell family's longtime involvement in Roanoke's automobile business. The Farrells sought to work with local companies, craftspeople and makers whenever possible. Guests will find locally madepieces throughout the property, alongside vintage finds and mid-century design classics.
Its remarkable architectural integrity and cultural significance earned the property a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2023, ensuring its story would continue for generations to come.
Whether you're visiting Roanoke for adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains, exploring the city's vibrant food and arts scene, or simply embracing the joy of the open road, Colony House invites you to experience a piece of American travel history, beautifully reimagined for today.
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