Would YOU want to live in a fire tower? | With These Views, Oh Yeah...at Least on Weekends

For me, the idea of a getaway is pretty simple: I don't need what I call the "Gucci Rustic" trappings of a mammoth home---plasma TVs and granite everywhere. Give me simple materials. I also like clean, open lines when it comes to design, and a communal space that leads to outdoor areas is essential.

Actually, I could even escape to a "fire tower" (see below: um, no, it's not really a fire tower, but rather a weekend "home" for a Montana couple). A photographer out that way sent me this shot when she was scouting homes last winter. Killer views, huh? She'll be shooting the home for me this summer.

Then again, if I'm building a primary residence, I might dip into the modern conveniences I rely on right now----roughing it is fine, but I want ESPN's Sports Center in high-def!

So, I'm wondering, what's your idea of a dream home?

What square footage are you considering? How about amenities? Are you thinking green, given the cost of heating and cooling a home these days?

Planning a home is a blast, but the living is even better.

In the meantime, I'll be thinking about this sweet little Montana tower/tree fort/hideaway.

Happy, safe weekend, everyone! (Oh, it's only Thursday?! Damn...)

Mike