CALISTOGA, California (CNN) -- Bill and Sharon Kastrinos practice the ultimate in minimalism. They've squeezed into a 154-square-foot home that looks more like a kid's playhouse than their previous 1,800-square-foot home.
With the economy crashing, the Kastrinos traded in their spacious kitchen for one that stretches barely an arm's length.
It hasn't been without its challenges, but Sharon Kastrinos says it's exhilarating to no longer feel compelled to keep up with the Joneses.
"There's a tremendous burden that's off your shoulders," she says. "Small is OK, and it might even be better."
Her husband adds that most Americans "want to be seen in their big house with a big car." But not them, not anymore.
"I don't think bigger is better," he says.
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http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/10/22/tiny.houses/index.html
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