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In the United States, the size of homes has increased over time, resulting in more living space per occupant and a lower overall population density. However, this trend may soon reverse as housing prices soar in major metropolitan areas and architects turn to smaller home designs to meet the demand. This article will cover how home architecture has changed in recent years to accommodate smaller homes and what this means for residential design moving forward.

How Has Home Architecture Changed to Accommodate Smaller Homes?

Smart design

As the average size of homes has decreased, so too has the size of rooms and hallways. In order to make the most of smaller spaces, home designers have had to get creative. Here are some of the ways they’ve done so:

  • Hallways have been shortened or eliminated altogether in favour of an open concept living space.
  • Smaller kitchens often include sliding doors that open up to a larger dining room or family room.
  • All windows are positioned at eye level for easy viewing and less wasted space.
  • One way is by incorporating a freestanding fireplace into the design of small homes. They create an intimate space that can be used for relaxation or entertaining guests in less than 1000 square feet of living space.

Urban village buildings

In recent years, there has been a trend toward smaller homes, especially in urban areas. This has led to a corresponding change in home architecture, with more buildings being designed to accommodate smaller spaces. An example of this is the new Urban Village style apartment building, which features mixed-use space and retail options on the ground floor and two residential floors above. The apartments are usually small one or two bedroom units which feature a wide open concept design that focuses on clean lines and open space.

The Ranch style house

Ranch style houses were popular in the 1950s and 1960s as they were seen as more modern than traditional homes. However, as time has gone on, they have become less popular due to their lack of privacy and cramped feeling. Many people now prefer homes that are more open and have multiple stories.

The New England cape cottage

One of the most popular styles of homes in New England is the cape cottage. This style of home is usually one or one-and-a-half stories tall and has a very simple layout. The first floor typically contains the living room, kitchen, and dining room, while the second floor contains the bedrooms. Cape cottages are often designed with small porches or decks off the front of the house.

Usonian houses

In the 1930s, architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed a series of affordable homes called Usonian houses. These homes were designed to be small and efficient, with an open floor plan and minimal exterior decoration including a ring doorbell. Today, Usonian houses are still popular for their simple design and functionality. As the average home size has decreased over the past few decades, more and more people are interested in living in a Usonian house.

Tiny houses

In recent years, there has been a trend toward smaller homes, particularly so-called tiny houses. While the jury is still out on whether this trend will stick, it has led to some changes in home architecture. Some of these changes include smaller rooms and hallways, as well as more efficient storage solutions.

What it all means

Nowadays, more and more people are moving into smaller homes. This could be because of the cost of living, environmental reasons, or simply a preference for a simpler lifestyle. Whatever the reason, it’s important to know how home architecture has changed to accommodate smaller homes.