These homes are recycled from planes, boats, water towers, ... but perhaps the most unusual government building conversion is the Jamesburg Earth Station in Carmel Valley, Calif.

At its widest point, the house spans just 10.4 feet, and from the inside some points are as narrow 8.4 feet, although the very narrowest point from the inside spans 6.2 feet).

The Heliotrope House in Germany rotates to maximize energy efficiency; ... From the home front: Unusual, unsettling or rotating houses. Updated: Jul. 12, 2012, 8:29 a.m.

Gallery: 20 Strange and Unusual Homes. Some unusual abodes owe their quirky appearance (at least in part) to a surprisingly practical purpose: green technology.