Smaller House, Happier Marriage?

[We] are paying for increased affluence with a substantial decrease
in the quality and quantity of social relations.
[S]ince 1960 in the U.S., the divorce rate has doubled...
THE PARADOX OF CHOICE, Why More is Less, Barry Schwartz

Endless research exists to back up claims that smaller houses are greener and cheaper than their larger counterparts. Smaller houses have also been shown to foster a sense of worth and responsibility in children and teens and forge close family ties, 'Small Houses are Healthier for Teens and Children'.

But it occurred to me, what about marriage? Does small home living help or hurt married couples? Since I couldn't unearth any scientific studies on this topic, I conducted my own unofficial research and put together a list of ten reasons living in a smaller house might be good for a marriage. A note of caution to readers. This list is completely subjective and based solely on my 20+ plus years of marriage and the over 100+ years of combined marriage and divorce experience held by four couples who are dear friends.

Ten Reasons a Smaller House is Good For a Marriage

1. Couples have to talk to each other. There is nowhere to hide and sulk.
2. Negotiation and compromise are learned quickly. Especially if there is only one bathroom to share.
3. A partner's moods are easily deciphered since they can be heard cussing or complaining from any room in the house.
4. There are fewer chores which frees up time to argue about other things.
   
5. The bedroom is typically too small for a king bed, so there are more opportunities for togetherness.
   
6. The heavy financial burden of a larger house is absent, eliminating a significant source of stress in most marriages.
7. There is more frequent contact and interaction between spouses because the smaller living area fosters closeness.
   
8. Children observe how parents respect each other in spite of their differences.
9. Partners are less likely to feel isolated or 'estranged' from each other because the physical presence of their spouse is more frequently seen and heard.
10. There is more opportunity to enjoy each other's company because the demands of the house are manageable.
    

I can't close without commenting on a quote from an anonymous author who said, "In marriage, as in war, it is permitted to take every advantage of the enemy." During an argument, my husband is most certainly the enemy and a small house gives me the advantage of knowing his whereabouts to prevent an ambush. Just a little something to think about.

Until next time!

Genevieve