We upgraded the fireplace, carpet and paint.

Gourmet kitchen w/granite and SS appliances, Built ins, Rooftop terrace w/double sided fireplace to enjoy Fabulous water views of the Potomac River ,Wet bar wine fridge and dishwasher on Rooftop level with over sized bedroom and full bath.

Brick, fireplace, nice lot. 

Across the property, a guesthouse adds chic elements such as a custom fireplace, marble bar, billiards room and sleeping loft.

Most of the homes in the area have fireplaces, but we’re going with gas to make the drive way useable.

Other factors could be number of corners (the more corners the more expensive to rebuild) or fireplaces or the fact that the house is at the end of a very narrow cul-de-sac and rebuilding would be more difficult.

Mine came back and dismantled the house (fireplace mantle, all the built-in cabinetry etc lined up in the living room like they were going to hold an auction of architectural parts).

Your title seemed to suggest they were going the other way, having been aware of tha, I didn't read it, sorry, and assumed,but if that's what they are suggesting, I think it's probably folks my son's age, he has a large home in the Dallas area, but not for me.Smaller has nothing to do or at least much to do with value or cost, smaller but better appointed, quality materials, antique details, honed beams, stone fireplace, etc.I'll go check your article, maybe they are going green, super insulated to make up for the $1,000 heating bill.....this is where Warren Buffet and I have things in common....LOL In the spring, summer and fall I'm on the deck the sunroom is for the winter or rainy days.

The fireplace backs up; smoke enters the townhome (rented out) & has since caused smoke stains in the corner ceilings.I met the chimney contractor inspected this morning.

About fireplaces, about sewer lines, maybe even about hand rails. :)