Take a look at this slideshow from the New York Times that depicts residential homes with uncoventional architecture. The homes that are highlighted in this piece include a renovated church, a design inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright crafted with the use of seven shipping containers, a residence in a cave, a house made out of materials salvaged from Boston's "Big Dig" construction project, and a converted water tower.

New EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rules

On April 22nd, 2010 all residential renovations and/or remodeling in the United States will have to be done by EPA certified contractors. This includes interior, exterior, large, and small projects on any home built before 1978 that may contain lead based paint. Fines for neglect of the law may be up to $37,500 per violation.

Known as the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule requires the use of lead-safe practices and other actions aimed at preventing lead poisoning. This new law affects a wide range of people including contractors, homeowners, property managers (landlords), Realtors, and training providers. For more information, view the EPA website.