Hangar Homes: The Rise of Fly-In Living — and the Role of Specialized Design

Hangar homes — custom residences built alongside personal aircraft hangars — are gaining popularity among pilots and aviation enthusiasts. These fly-in community homes allow owners to live with their aircraft, eliminating the commute to the airport and offering the freedom of direct runway access from home.

As a long-time hangar home designer and a resident of an airpark community, I’ve had the opportunity to witness and contribute to the growth of this remarkable way of life. Here’s a look at the evolution of the hangar home lifestyle, and how specialized design helps bring it to life.

The Growth of Hangar Homes in the U.S.

In 2005, there were around 500 residential airparks across the country, ranging from private strips to large-scale developments. Today, that number has grown to nearly 700.

This steady expansion reflects increasing interest in aviation home design — and by some estimates, between 4,000 and 6,000 hangar homes have been built since 2005. As airpark living gains traction, the need for knowledgeable, experienced designers has grown alongside it.

Where the Trend Is Taking Off

Hangar homes exist nationwide, but a few regions lead in development:

• Texas and Florida each boast more than 80 fly-in communities.
• The Southeastern U.S. is particularly attractive thanks to its mild weather and active aviation culture.
• High-end airpark homes in places like South Florida and Arizona appeal to luxury buyers seeking freedom, privacy, and the ability to travel on their own terms.

How to Design a Hangar Home That Works

Every hangar home is unique, shaped by factors like aircraft size, lot constraints, local codes, and lifestyle needs. While some owners hire general architects or builders, this niche benefits from professionals who specialize in aviation residence planning.

Over the past 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of designing dozens of these homes for clients across the U.S. I approach each with a clear understanding of how to make the space work — not just architecturally, but practically — for a lifestyle centered around flight.

Living It: A Personal and Practical Perspective

I live in a hangar home, which gives me daily insight into what makes these spaces work well. From aircraft flow and apron layout to energy efficiency and long-term maintenance, I’ve experienced the details that matter most.

As a Licensed Professional Engineer specializing in Architectural Engineering, and a Certified Building Contractor, I bring both creative insight and practical knowledge to each project — from the first sketch to the final walkthrough.

More than anything, I want my clients to feel confident and clear as we design their homes — because for many, this is a lifelong dream.

Want to Build a Hangar Home? Start with the Right Plan

Whether you’re looking to build in an established fly-in community or on your own private runway, choosing a designer who understands the nuances of custom hangar home design can make all the difference.

Let’s create a home that blends aviation, lifestyle, and beauty — a home that works for you both in the air and on the ground.

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