I can't help but drool in marvel over smart minimalistic design. In my book these houses go above and beyond basics with their beautiful architecture, while simultaneously showcasing a respect for natural surroundings. Of course, their price tag is suitably way out of any foreseeable attainability for me, but window shopping fits my budget just fine. Here's a peek at some of the well crafted works that have been delighting my inner architecture enthusiast. (Also, you should probably note that I know just about as much in the field of architecture as George Castanza.)

recycled wooden stairs from Jan Korbes' Garbage Architecture project

spiral stairway of Casa Muelle by Jonas Retamal

view from the interior of Devanthery & Lamuniere's converted barn-stable

Arthur Casas' House in Iporanga


Judith Mountain Cabin by Prairie Wind Architecture

patio of the Aquino House by Augusto Fernandez Mas / K + A Diseno

Recycled Pallet House for disaster relief housing by I-Beam Design