Lonestar Flight Museum

When the original Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston was severely damaged by Hurricane Ike, a new vision took flight: to rebuild the museum at Ellington Field in Houston. The new facility would span 137,267 square feet across two stories and include exhibit galleries, learning centers, simulators, a 400-seat auditorium, retail and dining spaces, and offices. This complex program demanded seamless coordination and high-quality finishes that could withstand public use while honoring the museum’s mission of celebrating aviation history. MAREK was selected to provide exterior framing and sheathing for the main building, as well as interior framing and finishes for both the North and South hangars. The challenge lay in balancing precision and performance in a project that combined architectural design, technical integration, and large-scale open spaces requiring consistent alignment and finish quality.

MAREK’s team approached the Lonestar Flight Museum with a focus on accuracy, craftsmanship, and collaboration. The exterior framing and sheathing were executed to meet stringent structural and environmental standards, providing durability for Houston’s weather conditions. Inside the museum, MAREK coordinated closely with DE Harvey Builders and Webb Architects to deliver clean, level framing that could support the open spans and varied ceiling heights of the hangars and public spaces. The interior wall and ceiling assemblies were framed and finished to achieve smooth transitions between exhibit areas, classrooms, and administrative offices.
The project required detailed sequencing to accommodate the installation of mechanical and electrical systems within large open bays, as well as to maintain design intent for areas visible to the public. Through proactive communication and field coordination, MAREK ensured that construction moved efficiently from structural framing through final finishes. The completed facility now houses immersive exhibits and aviation learning environments that inspire visitors while reflecting the resilience and forward vision of the museum. MAREK’s contribution helped transform the Lonestar Flight Museum into a landmark destination that combines education, engineering, and craftsmanship, ensuring it will serve the community for generations to come.

MAREK was awarded the exterior framing and sheathing on the main building of the Lone STar Flight Museum and interior framing of the walls and ceilings. Our team also completed the finish work on both the North and South hangers. The Lone Star Flight Museum has been in Galveston since the 1980s, but due to damage the museum suffered during Hurricane Ike, the decision to relocate further inland to Ellington Field was made. The museum’s main building is 137,267 sq ft and stands two stories. The museum now houses exhibit galleries, aviation learning facilities, flight simulators, a 400-seat auditorium, meeting rooms, gift shops, cafés, and a restaurant, along with offices for supporting staff and amenities.