The End of McMansions ... or Not?
Posted by: Carleton Sheets in Property, Economy, Budget on Dec 22, 2008.
I read an article in USA TODAY describing how the demand for smaller apartments and condos is soaring for a number of reasons: the economy, the "eco-friendliness," and the location (many smaller units tend to be urban).
There is a lot to be said for downsizing. And one of the best reasons that I've noticed about having a smaller living space is the lack of clutter---why buy something if you don't have anywhere to put it!
The "less is more" trend has been talked about before. Take a look at this article from June 2008 Money Magazine. It seems as if practicality may be winning over square footage not only in apartments, but in single-family homes as well.
Many of the homes built within the last six years are characterized by two-story foyers ... with additional rooms---such as great rooms, added for "living large." But do people really need all that space? How about heating and cooling those entry ways and great rooms? And think about the difficulties of painting the walls and ceiling and changing light bulbs!
I'm gratified to read articles about home designers who are trending toward smaller homes ... with an emphasis on flexible spaces and built-ins for storage. With smaller families the norm, who needs 6,000 square feet of living area?
So does this mean we are seeing an end to the McMansions? Only time will tell, but I'd like to hear your thoughts.
