Tiny houses are trending. Americans want to live simpler lives. They want to get back to nature and feel more in control of their lives, both at work and at home. Evidence of this is reflected in the rising numbers of Americans who make up the gig economy. It's also reflected in the numbers of people who are downsizing, ridding themselves of household clutter and opting for chic, modern or traditional interior designs that showcase their amazing personalities.

Get the space you want without moving to a new house

You don't have to buy or live in a tiny house to want to make a small home appear bigger than it actually is. A new addition to your family, gaining a roommate or the operating a business out of your home are reasons why you might want to expand your living space without moving. These tricks may be just what you're looking for.

• Buy and install multi-purpose furniture. Instead of a traditional sofa, get a sofa that unfolds into a bed. Also, go with a sofa that has bottom shelves for added storage space.
• Choose built-in wall bookcases. Four rows of wall bookcases can easily save you several square feet of floor space,especially if you consider how much space four large separate bookcases would take up.
• Install interior doors that also function as tables and storage shelves. These devices are interchangeable by removing and inserting clamps into levers.
• Choose transformable furniture. These furniture pieces save money and space. An example of transformable furniture is a table that doubles as a chair. You may have to visit specialty furniture stores to find transforming furniture pieces.
• Make good use of vertical space. Stack decorative storage bins on top of each other rather than shoving them in closets or placing them in or near the middle of a floor.
• Keep end tables close to chairs and sofas.
• Use tables that fold into chairs and rely on stylish ceiling lights for lighting. During the day, rely on natural light.
• Install removable dividers to turn a single room into a multi-purpose space. Go with dividers that are made with elegant designs.
• Purchase twin, bunk beds that fold away when not in use.
• Turn your attic into a master bedroom. Make sure that air flow and insulation in the attic is good, allowing the attic to easily heat and cool.
• Screen your front or back porch. Place chairs and a sofa on the porch and use the space as an outdoor office or socializing area.
• Donate furniture and objects that you don't use to charities and community organizations.

A large house still serves as a sign of success in many communities. Other Americans are focusing on houses that are highly functional, whether that functionality comes through floor plans or solar energy. One thing is certain. Individual living space preferences are helping to reshape the housing market. It is exciting to watch the impact that those preferences are making.