The owners of a home in Berkeley, California have made a commitment to green technology and repurposed materials.  The upper walls of the home are made from over 100 salvaged car roofs that have been cut into long tiles and fitted in place. 

Other unique features of the home, which was designed by Wanaselja Architecture include poplar bark shingles on the ground floor that were made from scraps from North Carolina furniture makers. Wood furnishing inside the home are made from locally salvaged wood.

Read more about this eco-friendly home on Gizmag.

The most expensive home in the U.S. was recently on the market and its sale is the subject of a new HGTV reality show.  “Selling Spelling Manor” tells the tale of Candy Spelling’s decision to downsize by putting her 57,000-square mansion on the market and commissioning a 16,000 foot penthouse condo at the top of a Century City skyscraper. 

Candy is the widow of Aaron Spelling, a TV mogul who produced some of the top shows of the 70s and 80s.  The asking price of the manor was originally $150 million, but Candy accepted an $85 million offer from a 22-year-old British heiress named Petra Ecclestone.  The house was on the market for at least two years – even the most expensive homes have seen a recent drop in prices.

You can take a virtual tour of the amazing Spelling estate by watching this YouTube video.

If you’re thinking about moving because your house is feeling cramped, you may be able to find a solution by looking up.  There could be hidden potential in your home’s attic.  Don’t let ducts, insulation and rafters intimidate you. By working with an architect or contractor and taking advantage of every bit of free space (including low clearances and angular spaces), you can repurpose your attic and create new space for living.  Since plumbing in your attic may be limited, a playroom or office may be a better choice than a bedroom suite.

For tips that will help you decide if you attic is a good candidate for attic remodeling, check out this article on the Better Homes and Gardens website.