Meet the Builders: Mike Santilli and Tyler Gunn’s Approach to Homebuilding

At Airlie Homes, every home begins with the people who dream it and the team who brings it to life. Founders Mike Santilli and Tyler Gunn lead with a philosophy that building should never feel overwhelming. Instead, it should be a rewarding experience shaped by trust, collaboration, and craftsmanship. Their approach is as personal as it is professional, rooted in the coastal lifestyle they call home.

Tyler Gunn

Tyler Gunn’s Vision for Thoughtful Design
As a Wilmington native with more than a decade of experience in residential construction, Tyler Gunn understands how much the Carolina coast influences the way people live. He founded Airlie Homes with the belief that a home should feel timeless, beautiful, and tailored to the people who will make memories inside it.
Tyler’s background in project management and construction operations means he knows every detail of the building process. His priority is ensuring that homeowners feel confident and supported from the first meeting to move-in day. For him, success is not only measured by the finished product but also by the experience clients have along the way.

Mike Santilli

Mike Santilli’s Commitment to Quality and Care
With years of construction management experience, Mike Santilli is deeply involved in every project from the first walkthrough to the final detail. He is known for his communication and problem-solving, qualities that help homeowners feel comfortable throughout the process. His background in high-end residential construction prepared him to meet the expectations of families who want a home that balances everyday livability with lasting craftsmanship.
Mike plays a key role in turning design vision into construction reality. He manages schedules, coordinates teams, and ensures that every detail meets Airlie’s exacting standards. For Mike, a smooth, personal, and exciting experience is just as important as the finished home.

A Shared Approach
Together, Mike and Tyler have built more than a company. They have built a philosophy of homebuilding that reflects the mission of Airlie Homes itself. Every home is a collaboration between builder and homeowner, blending timeless coastal style with the unique needs and tastes of each family.
Their approach is straightforward. Listen closely, communicate clearly, and guide each client with expertise and care. From the first consultation to handing over the keys, they walk alongside homeowners, making the process transparent, flexible, and rewarding.
This is not about building houses. It is about creating homes that reflect stories, lifestyles, and dreams. It is about crafting spaces that feel deeply personal while standing the test of time. Rooted in the spirit of coastal Carolina, Mike and Tyler believe that every detail matters and that integrity is the foundation of every promise kept.

That is their approach to homebuilding, and it is what defines the Airlie difference.