A New Look at Housing Design
A tougher economy is changing the way people regard housing design. Here are some of the new realities:

· The ideal home size is less than 2,000 square feet, according to Trulia.com.

· Formal living rooms and dining rooms are out; flexible space that can double or triple as home offices, guest rooms or dens is most appealing.

· Porches are back.

· Energy efficiency trumps everything, with a private wind turbine in the back yard a real winner.

Source: USAToday, Cindy Perman (11/15/2010)