I
n a bizarre twist on the concept of "spite houses," a developer in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, has built a 10-foot-wide, 19-foot-tall home that's as much about needling his neighbors as it is about providing a unique living space. John Atkins constructed the unusual property at 1952 Horn Street after refusing to sell the lot to interested buyers, including Mike Cavanagh, who eventually purchased the home for $619,000.

    Atkins' defiance went beyond simply holding out for a higher price; he built on the parcel despite city officials rejecting plans for a larger home. The result is a 1,500-square-foot property with great curb appeal that casts shadows on its neighbors' swimming pools. Cavanagh, who cited his single lifestyle as a reason the home works for him, has found it to be a good investment in an area that's been slow to develop compared to other Florida beach towns.

    The home features local touches, such as a dining table built from salvaged wood from a pier destroyed by Hurricane Matthew. Cavanagh views the property not only as a great place to live but also as a smart investment, one that could potentially be rented out or sold if needed.