A Wild West-style home built with strawbale walls, recycled bridge beams and salvaged farm machinery parts has hit the market in Albert Town, drawing attention for its unique design.

The property was purpose-built to resemble an American ranch, with much of its design shaped around reclaimed materials its owners collected.

New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty sales associate Luc Ravel said the home was “created as a personal project and a piece of craftsmanship” rather than following a trend.

Mike Wight and his late partner Sandra Tumaru were inspired by ranches they saw while travelling through the American Southwest on their Harley Davidsons.

“They spent years collecting materials before they even finalised a design - bridge beams, telephone poles, salvaged timber, antique doors - and then built the home around those pieces,” Luc told the Wānaka App.

“So rather than buying materials to suit a house, the house was shaped by the materials and the story behind them.”

The residence includes multiple living areas, a media room with a fireplace, three bedrooms, and a loft fitted with built-in beds for guests. Two separate garages and a drive-through courtyard provide off-street parking and storage.

A 50sqm entertaining pavilion, completed in 2020, has a full kitchen, pizza oven and industrial-style cooktop designed for larger gatherings.

Details throughout the home reflect its handcrafted approach. 

“One of the most memorable is the breakfast bar - it’s made from leftover structural timber and fitted with antique tractor seats mounted on custom pipework,” Luc said. 

“Another standout is the straw-bale windows framed with gears from an old tractor. 

“They’re subtle details, but they show the level of thought and craftsmanship that went into the build.”

The property at 9 Balneaves Lane, Albert Town, is being marketed by deadline sale.

“We’ve seen enquiry from a wide range of people, but the property is likely to appeal most to someone who values craftsmanship and character, and who wants a home with a story rather than a conventional modern build - particularly at a time when many new subdivisions around town have covenants that limit creativity and individuality,” Luc said.

PHOTO: New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty