Smaller houses mean homeowners are maximizing their utilities

The recession has hit homeowners hard and many have had to scale down and live within their means. According to the National Association of Home Builders, the overall size of American homes has shrunk from 2,438 square feet to 2,377 square feet this year.

Consumers are trying to maximize both their energy usage and their space throughout their
home with smaller appliances.

"If you go down to a 18-inch range instead of one 24 inches, to a 33-inch refridgerator from a 36-inch one, and to an 18-inch dishwasher from 24 inches, you have more counter and storage space," Sharon S. Coleman, coordinator of the interior design program at Middle Tennessee State University, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Along with scaling down of furniture and appliances, homeowners have found the clever use of lighting can give the illusion of more space. Energy-efficient blinds and shades are an easy way to cut energy costs and maximize your use of space.

Honeycomb cellular shades are the best energy-efficient option that will provide additional insulation for your home. In addition, they are available in light-filtering and room darkening varieties.