On Thu, 09 Jun 2016 16:31:11 -0700, Don Y
wrote:


E.g., the 1950's-vintage home I grew up in was only 1600 sq ft.
But, also had another 1600 sq ft in the "finished" basement
that wasn't counted in the 1600 sq ft "total".

Nowadays, it seems like basements are more *formally* living
spaces (walk outs, etc.). The "Laundry" is a genuine *room*
instead of a cubbyhole into which the machines are tucked.

From the newer homes I've seen, bedrooms haven't really gotten
larger (with the exception of the master suite). But, there
are usually two "living rooms" ("family room"/activity room)
and a dining room (instead of a "breakfast nook"). And,
"outdoor rooms" (enclosed porches, etc.).

I find it misleading to some extent because not all space
is really "equal"; e.g., we have a lot of space for two people
but too much of it is impractical (e.g., I'd prefer more
STORAGE space than some of the "wasted?" LIVING space)

The other trend I notice is for far more utilities in homes.
More electric service (in places other than the kitchen),
additional water heaters, HVAC systems, etc. We have several
friends that have multiple furnaces, AC compressors, etc.
(some of whom are "sole occupants" of their homes : )

In Maryland they only counted the area "above grade" as living space
so my old house is listed as 1900 sq/ft but, like you say, it is
almost twice that with nothing but a tiny utility room and a laundry
room that is not completely finished.
Here in Florida, the "BAS" is usually referred to as the part "under
air". (HVAC controlled space). Then they have other classifications
for outside/utility areas. (Finished enclosed porch, finished open
porch, unfinished open porch, screen enclosure, garage etc)