The Downsizing Boom

For years, Americans were famous for building McMansions -- adding every bit of space possible to new homes. Home builders were adding rooms for home theaters, game rooms, exercise rooms, interior greenhouses, and even separate children’s and guest wings. But according to a survey conducted this year by the American Institute of Architects, that trend has come to an end. Instead of living large, Americans have begun to downsize -- putting items in storage if necessary to make it possible to live in a smaller space. Industry analysts say that the new trend will mean more business for professional organizers, interior designers, home furnishing stores, and self storage companies, as Americans try to figure out how to maintain their old lifestyles in less space. [More]