Columbus might not have beaches or mountains, but it does have a surprisingly cool claim to architectural fame: the Lustron home. And if you’ve ever dreamed of owning one of these quirky, steel-clad time capsules, now’s your chance — because a beautifully preserved Lustron just hit the market in Clintonville.
Located at 214 Arden Road, this 2-bedroom, 1-bath stunner is listed for $379,900. That might sound steep for 1,021 square feet, but you’re not just buying a house — you’re buying a slice of American design history (with a giant 2.5-car garage and a lush backyard to boot).
So… what exactly is a Lustron home?
If you’re wondering why this place looks like it could double as a vintage diner or a retro-futuristic bunker, it’s because Lustron homes were built entirely out of steel — from the frame to the walls to the bathtub. That pastel exterior? Not paint. It’s porcelain-enameled steel panels, baked to a glossy finish that’s basically indestructible.
These homes were born right here in Columbus in the late 1940s as a sleek solution to the post-WWII housing crisis. The idea was simple: prefab homes that could be mass-produced in a factory, shipped in pieces, and assembled like giant Lego sets. They were modern, durable, and way ahead of their time. Unfortunately, they were also too innovative for their own good.
READ MORE: The Brief, Brilliant Life of Lustron Homes
A rare gem in North Clintonville
Back to Arden Road: this Lustron is one of fewer than 1,500 remaining in the country, and it’s in exceptionally good condition. It still has many of its original features, including the built-in vanities, bookshelves, and wall-hung cabinetry that make the space feel bigger than it is. The streamlined floor plan maximizes function without sacrificing that charming mid-century aesthetic.
It also comes with some thoughtful updates, like engineered hardwood floors, casement windows, and an updated three-season room perfect for morning coffee or lazy summer nights. And if maintenance isn’t your thing? These homes were literally designed to be low effort. Steel walls don’t rot, rust, or host termites. You can hose the whole thing down if you want. (Kidding. Kind of.)
Want to see one before you commit?
If you’re Lustron-curious but not ready to take the homeownership plunge, good news: you can explore a fully furnished original Lustron at the Ohio History Center. Yes, indoors. It’s on display like the piece of Americana it is.
Listing Snapshot:
-
📍 214 Arden Rd, Columbus, OH 43214
💰 $379,900
🛏 2 bed | 1 bath | 1,021 sq ft
🛠 Built in 1949, mostly original
🌿 Spacious yard, three-season room, 2.5-car garage
📍 Right in the heart of Clintonville
Whether you’re a mid-century modern lover, a history buff, or just someone who’s really tired of drywall, this Clintonville Lustron is one of the coolest homes you’ll see on the market this year. But with fewer than 1,500 left standing, don’t expect it to stay listed for long. You can view the full listing here.
