Spruce Goose Hangar

Introduction

The Spruce Goose Hangar in Los Angeles stands as a monumental testament to American aviation achievement and adaptive reuse. Originally built in 1943 to house Howard Hughes’ legendary H-4 Hercules “Spruce Goose” flying boat, this vast wooden structure is celebrated for both its historic significance and its innovative transformation into a modern tech campus. Although the hangar's interior is now primarily a private office space for Google, its scale, design, and storied past make it a Los Angeles landmark worth exploring—at least from the outside. This guide details the hangar’s history, architecture, current access policies, and tips for making your visit to Playa Vista memorable.

For further reading, see resources like the Los Angeles Conservancy, ArchDaily, and Urban Land Institute.

Historical Significance and Construction

The Spruce Goose Hangar was constructed during World War II as the dedicated assembly site for Hughes’ ambitious H-4 Hercules “Spruce Goose”—the largest flying boat ever built. Due to wartime metal shortages, both the hangar and the aircraft were engineered using wood, primarily birch, despite the nickname referencing spruce. Completed in 1943, the hangar stretched an astonishing 750 feet in length, making it one of the largest wooden structures in the world (LA Conservancy; ArchDaily).

The H-4 Hercules itself only flew once, for less than a minute in 1947, but the hangar continued to serve as a center for aerospace innovation and, later, as a set for major Hollywood films.

Architectural Features and Adaptive Reuse

Original Construction

• Material: Predominantly wood (birch and Douglas fir) due to WWII metal rationing.
• Dimensions: Approximately 750 feet long, 75 feet high, with a column-free interior to accommodate the aircraft’s 320-foot wingspan (Zaubee).
• Design: Utilized massive wooden arches and clerestory windows to maximize space and light.

Modern Transformation

In the 21st century, Google acquired the hangar and commissioned ZGF Architects for a sensitive adaptive reuse. The transformation preserved the historic woodwork and central spine while creating a four-level, 450,000-square-foot office complex inside the original volume. The restoration reintroduced natural light, showcased the original stairways, and incorporated aviation-inspired art and furnishings (Urban Land Institute; ZGF; gbdmagazine.com).

Notably, the sculptural installation “The Ghost of the Goose” by Michael Murphy, comprised of 2,800 chrome spheres, visually references the hangar’s aviation legacy (Interior Design).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Access

Public Access Policy

• Interior Access: The Spruce Goose Hangar is a private corporate facility. There are currently no public tours, regular visiting hours, or ticket sales. Access is restricted to employees and guests with authorized entry (Chamber of Commerce).
• Special Events: Occasionally, guided tours or public events may be offered in partnership with local organizations, but these are rare and require advance registration.

How to Arrange a Visit

• Business or Private Events: Entry is by invitation only. Coordinate with your host regarding security and parking.

Exterior Viewing

• The hangar’s impressive façade and wooden arches are visible from several public spaces in Playa Vista. Visitors can photograph the exterior from nearby streets, parks, and walkways.

Viewing Opportunities, Accessibility, and Visitor Tips

• Best Viewing: Daylight hours, especially mornings and late afternoons, provide the best light for photography.
• Accessibility: Exterior areas around the hangar are ADA-compliant. For official guests, the interior is also fully accessible.
• Visitor Etiquette: Respect property boundaries, avoid restricted areas, and follow all posted signage. Drone use is prohibited due to proximity to LAX and privacy considerations.
• Parking: Street and garage parking are available in Playa Vista. Public transportation options include LA Metro bus routes.
• Amenities: Restrooms, dining, and retail are available at nearby Runway Playa Vista.

Nearby Attractions in Playa Vista

• Playa Vista Central Park: Offers picnic areas and walking paths.
• Ballona Wetlands: Popular for birdwatching and nature trails.
• Runway Playa Vista: A shopping and dining hub with a variety of eateries.
• Flight Path Museum (LAX): Aviation history exhibits located nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I tour the Spruce Goose Hangar?
No, the hangar is a private office space and not open for general public tours.

Are there any public visiting hours or ticket sales?
No, public access is restricted and there are no regular tickets or visiting hours.

How can I see the Spruce Goose Hangar?
The exterior is visible from public areas in Playa Vista.

Where is the original Spruce Goose airplane?
The H-4 Hercules is displayed at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in Oregon.

Is the site accessible for people with disabilities?
Public exterior areas are accessible. The interior is ADA-compliant for authorized visitors.