Iconic Bruno Steel House Up for Auction at 5:30 p.m.

A Three-Decade Masterpiece

The Bruno began as an artistic experiment in the 1970s, when Bruno, inspired by his background in sculpture, sought to push the boundaries of traditional architecture. Originally from California, Bruno came to Lubbock to teach art at Texas Tech University, where he joined a group of like-minded teachers and students who challenged conventional design principles. Together, they explored the soulful nature of materials and were inspired by the organic forms of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, known for the Sagrada Família in Barcelona. The Bruno Steel House, while unique in style, channels a similar ambition for expressive, organic structure.

Bruno’s structure was constructed bit by bit over nearly 35 years, with each weld, curve, and angle meticulously fashioned by hand. Built of quarter-inch Corten steel, a material typically found in modernist sculpture rather than architecture, the house reflects Bruno’s vision of creating a residence that was as much a work of art as a functional space. However, the house’s innovative design and heavy steel material required specific engineering solutions to counter Lubbock’s extreme temperatures, making the building process as challenging as it was rewarding.

A House Like No Other

Inside, The Bruno’s charm continues with hand-crafted, curved steel staircases, arched doorways, and vibrant stained glass that bathes the rooms in colorful light. The home’s 2,450 square feet include three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a remodeled gourmet kitchen that blends contemporary convenience with Bruno’s unique aesthetic. A private upstairs suite opens onto a balcony, providing stunning views of Ransom Canyon’s scenic landscape. Finished to Bruno’s original vision after his passing, the house now includes additional stained-glass windows and modern amenities, while staying true to his artistic spirit.

Today, the Bruno Steel House functions as a short-term rental, making it not only a rare living space but also a lucrative investment. Its surrounding community offers private lake access, a pool, and a community center, along with seasonal parades and stargazing events—all enhancing the appeal of this one-of-a-kind locale just 20 minutes from Lubbock.

The Legacy of Robert Bruno

The story of the Bruno Steel House is also the story of Robert Bruno’s creative journey. A sculptor at heart, Bruno was known for his unorthodox methods and passionate dedication to his work. In the 1960s, his art began taking on monumental proportions, evolving from small sculptures to large-scale steel installations. When he began designing the Steel House, he wanted to create a space that would embody his artistic vision—a space that felt like an extension of his sculptures. Bruno’s early sketches of the house, made in the 1970s, eventually blossomed into the surreal, geometric structure that stands today.

Bruno’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the home. He preferred working alone, designing a custom hydraulic crane to lift himself twenty feet off the ground to perfect each weld and seam. The result is a house that feels alive, with a form that seems to shift and move with each change of light.

The Bruno Steel House has stirred anticipation for the upcoming auction. Hosted online and on-site through Special Finds, the sale offers prospective buyers a chance to own a piece of architectural history, as well as a functional and iconic work of art. The auction begins Nov. 12 and is online and in-person. If you are interested, Kendra Martin is the real estate agent and can be reached at (806) 268-2419 or at [email protected].

The photography of the Bruno House is by Haley D. Photography – Haley Madewell. See more photos here.