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A spaceship-shaped retreat in West Texas just landed on the market. The Steel House, a Lubbock-area landmark built by the late sculptor Robert Bruno, is searching for its next owner.
Bruno began conceptualizing the now-famous Ransom Canyon abode back in the ‘70s when he was a professor at Texas Tech, and, though he never completed it, he spent the better part of 30 years creating the hybrid house/sculpture. Related Stories The Biggest Penthouse in Dubai’s History Just Listed for $164 Million A Guess Cofounder Is Seeking a Stitch Under $40 Million for His Stylish Beverly Hills Ensemble NBA Star Rui Hachimura Nets an All-New Los Angeles Farmhouse
Bruno died in 2008 at the age of 63, and in 2022, his daughter sold the striking pad to its current owners, Courtney and Blake Bartosh, who opened up the quirky, four-legged Corten steel structure to the public as a one-of-a-kind vacation rental. Guests who would to make their stay more permanent can snap up the playfully unconventional home for a cool $2 million.
“When people come to stay, we want them to know we are open to selling it,” Courtney, who’s handling the listing with Monument Realty, told Robb Report. “We love the property and will gladly keep it and continue to have it as an Airbnb, but if the right person came along and wanted it, we would sell it.”
The 2,450-square-foot spread was recently completed by the Bartoshes and features three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a new air conditioning system, and blonde wood-like vinyl floors. During the renovation, the duo tapped local contractors and vendors who were familiar with Bruno to ensure the changes aligned with his vision, Business Insider reported. The couple even stumbled upon the sculptor’s old notebook, which informed many of their design decisions.
The rust-colored residence was about 70 percent complete when the Bartoshes acquired it. They finished plastering the walls and installed stainless-steel appliances in the kitchen. And on the second floor, they added another bedroom that overlooks a nearby lake. They even incorporated more stained-glass windows, which were one of the original hallmarks of the home.
In terms of the décor, Bruno’s personal belongings are scattered throughout the dwelling. Some of the artifacts found inside include his welding chair and old photographs. However, there is no word on whether those items will be included in the sale.
Click here to see all the photos of the Robert Bruno Steel House.
Abigail Montanez is a staff writer at Robb Report. She has worked in both print and digital publishing for over half a decade, covering everything from real estate, dining, travel and topics…
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