Average House Size

The average house size in the United States has continued to grow and grow. According to National Association of Home Builders from 1750 square feet in the late 1970's to currently 2479 square feet. And yet it seems to me the average family size is decreasing. No longer do extended families live together in the same household, kids, parents and grandparents, uncles or aunts. (Although if this economy continues, it may turn back that way.) How much room does a family of four need? How about just a couple of empty-nesters? Big houses need more heating and cooling, more lights, more furniture, more stuff. More stuff to clean, more stuff store or throw away. What do you really need? What would you rather do with your free time? Less house means more living. I would want to see good design, higher quality and less quantity homes.