Are you looking for unique and affordable housing options? Buses, small houses, and shipping containers have gained popularity as alternatives to traditional homes. They offer comfort at a fraction of the cost, with endless customization possibilities. But did you know that one woman took it to the next level? Jo Ann Ussery transformed a decommissioned Boeing 727 into a luxurious mansion!
Jo Ann Ussery embarked on this incredible journey in 1993 when her home in Benoit, Mississippi was destroyed. With little money and two kids to take care of, she needed a new place to live. Initially, Ussery considered buying a trailer, but soon realized it wouldn’t be spacious enough for her family. That’s when her brother-in-law, Bob, who happened to be an air traffic controller, suggested an out-of-the-box idea – living on an airplane.
Ussery was open to the concept, so Bob went to inspect a Boeing 727 that was about to be dismantled. When Ussery saw it, she instantly fell in love. The best part? The price was unbelievably low – just $2,000, including shipping. Inspired by Donald Trump’s private Boeing 727, Ussery named her new home “Little Trump.”
The transformation of the airplane into a cozy dwelling was both expensive and time-consuming for Ussery. With a budget of less than $30,000 (equivalent to around $60,000 today), she began the extensive renovations. To keep the plane secure during the makeover, Ussery positioned it near a lake on her property. The tail was heavily reinforced with concrete, ensuring stability.
Inside the Boeing 727, Ussery started by demolishing the interior, which covered an impressive 1,500 square feet. Although the windows didn’t open like in commercial planes, Ussery installed air conditioning to keep the space comfortable. She also improved the insulation and laid new flooring. As for storage, she cleverly utilized the single airplane lavatory and overhead bins.
Once the major renovations were complete, Ussery turned her attention to the details that make a house feel like a home. The Boeing 727 now boasted three bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen, and even a laundry room. It was equipped with modern amenities, including an oven, a phone, and a washer and dryer.
But the pièce de résistance was undoubtedly the master bathroom, located in the cockpit area. Ussery transformed it into a luxurious oasis, complete with a soaking tub. The room’s layout created an ethereal experience, making the occupants feel as though they were floating in mid-air.
What’s even more impressive is that Ussery accomplished all the remodeling work on her own. From 1995 to 1999, she called the converted jet her home before deciding to share its unique charm with the world. Sadly, during its transportation as a museum exhibit, the Boeing 727 fell off the carriage and was tragically destroyed.
Ussery’s story is a testament to creativity, resourcefulness, and the power of turning a dream into a reality. So, if you’re ever in search of a truly extraordinary place to live, remember Jo Ann Ussery and her extraordinary Boeing 727 turned mansion!
Watch a video about Jo Ann Ussery’s incredible transformation:
