1. Open Floor Plans Are Practically a Must
In many American homes, especially newer builds, open-concept layouts dominate the main living space, according to Zoe Denenberg from Southern Living. That means the kitchen flows into the dining room and spills into the living area, with few or no walls in between. It’s designed for socializing and entertaining, so the cook isn’t cut off from the party. This trend took off in the late 20th century and shows no sign of fading.
In contrast, many older homes in Europe and Asia feature separate, closed-off rooms for each function. These layouts offer more privacy and are easier to heat or cool selectively. But Americans tend to favor the feeling of spaciousness and connectivity. The kitchen isn’t just for cooking—it’s part of the show.
2. Big, Bigger, Biggest
American homes are famously large—averaging around 2,300 square feet, nearly double the size of homes in many other countries. In contrast, homes in the U.K., Japan, and many parts of Europe often hover around 1,000 square feet or less. The emphasis in the U.S. is on space, even in suburban areas where large yards and multiple rooms are the norm. It’s not uncommon for a single-family home in the U.S. to have multiple living areas and a guest room or two.
This size obsession is tied to car culture, land availability, and the “more is better” mindset that’s deeply woven into American consumerism. In places like Japan, where land is limited and urban planning is dense, compact homes make far more sense. But in the U.S., especially in suburban and rural regions, sprawl is expected—and even desired. The result? A lot of house, and often, a lot of empty rooms.
3. The Love Affair with Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
While much of the world opts for hardwood, tile, or laminate flooring, American homes often feature wall-to-wall carpeting, especially in bedrooms, according to Mel Childs from This Old House. This plush flooring style gained popularity post-World War II, when synthetic carpet became affordable and easy to install. It adds a cozy feel, but it also traps allergens and is tough to keep spotless. Still, it’s a defining feature in many U.S. homes.
Globally, many homeowners shy away from carpeting for cleanliness and longevity reasons. Europeans and Asians, for example, prefer hard surfaces for their durability and ease of cleaning. In hotter climates, tile is also just cooler and more practical. But Americans often equate carpet with comfort—like walking on a cloud at home.
4. Central Heating and Air Conditioning Everywhere
Climate control is a big deal in the U.S.—almost every home has some form of central heating and, in many regions, central air conditioning, according to Emily Barone from TIME Magazine. In fact, over 90% of new single-family homes in the U.S. include central A/C. It’s a comfort Americans often take for granted, but globally, it’s a luxury. Many countries rely on radiators, space heaters, or window units instead.
Part of this has to do with climate, but much of it is infrastructure and culture. In places like Italy or the U.K., mild weather and high energy costs mean HVAC isn’t as common or expected. Americans tend to design homes assuming year-round temperature control. The thermostat is practically a member of the family.
5. Laundry Rooms Are an Entire Thing
In the U.S., it’s common for homes to have a dedicated laundry room—sometimes even a full-size room with extra storage and a sink, according to Janet Eastman from The Los Angeles Times. It’s a place for folding, sorting, and storing all things laundry-related. Many countries don’t even have dryers, let alone rooms devoted to washing clothes. In much of Europe and Asia, washers are often in the kitchen or bathroom, and clothes are dried on racks.
This speaks to the American focus on convenience and specialization of space. A laundry room is another “bonus room” that enhances the feeling of a well-equipped home. It also ties into the norm of large appliances and the desire to keep “messy” tasks out of sight. For many Americans, laundry is a whole event—so it gets its own space.
6. Garbage Disposals Are Weirdly Common
In American kitchens, garbage disposals are practically standard. These handy devices grind up food waste so it can be flushed down the drain, and they’re found in over 50% of U.S. homes. But outside North America, they’re extremely rare and sometimes even illegal. Many countries see them as bad for plumbing and water treatment systems.
Elsewhere, food waste is more likely sorted and composted or tossed in separate bins. European nations often have strict waste separation and composting rules, making a disposal less practical. In the U.S., it’s just another appliance that makes life a little easier. Or at least, less smelly.
7. Closets That You Can Actually Walk Into
Walk-in closets are a staple in many American homes, especially in newer builds and suburban developments. These aren’t just storage spaces—they’re miniature dressing rooms. Compared to the compact wardrobes or armoire setups common in Europe and Asia, American closets are palatial. Some even include seating, lighting, and mirrors.
This difference ties into both space availability and lifestyle. American fashion habits (lots of clothes, shoes, and seasonal gear) require room to store everything. In smaller homes abroad, people tend to own less or store things creatively. But in the U.S., closet space is a selling point—“his and hers” is practically standard.
8. Front Yards and Backyards Are the Norm
The American dream includes a house with a lawn—and usually both a front yard and a backyard. These green spaces are for curb appeal, BBQs, kids’ play, and letting the dog run wild. Even modest homes in the suburbs often have both. This is not a global norm by any stretch.
In cities around the world, outdoor space is often communal or shared—if it exists at all. Rooftop gardens or tiny balconies are more common in densely populated areas. But in the U.S., private yards are part of the ideal home package. It’s about space, privacy, and yes, the occasional Fourth of July cookout.
9. Basements—You Either Have One or You Don’t
Basements are a staple in many American homes, especially in the Midwest and Northeast. They’re used for storage, recreation, or even converted into extra bedrooms or apartments. But in many parts of the world, basements are rare due to climate, building codes, or soil conditions. In countries with high water tables or earthquake risk, building below ground just isn’t practical.
In the U.S., basements are sometimes unfinished and used for utilities or laundry. Other times, they’re fully livable, essentially doubling the usable square footage. Outside the U.S., if there is extra space, it’s often added above ground or in attic areas. But Americans love their “bonus” space—even if it’s a little spooky.
10. Double Sinks in the Master Bathroom
The idea of “his and hers” sinks is a very American one. Many master bathrooms in the U.S. are designed with two sinks so couples can get ready simultaneously. It’s a small luxury, but one that symbolizes space and convenience. This setup is far less common in homes around the world.
In older or smaller homes abroad, bathrooms are usually compact with only essential features. The U.S. focus on personal space and morning efficiency fuels this double-sink design. It’s not just about utility—it’s about not having to argue over toothpaste splatter. And yes, it’s very much a “first-world problem.”
11. Home Offices Are on the Rise
Even before the pandemic, having a home office was seen as a desirable feature in the U.S. Now, it’s practically essential. Many newer homes include a designated office space, or at least a “flex room” that can be adapted. This trend reflects remote work culture and the rise of the gig economy.
Elsewhere, especially in countries with smaller homes or better work-life boundaries, home offices aren’t as common. People may use the dining table or rent co-working spaces instead. But Americans tend to carve out a whole room for work. It’s productivity, but make it domestic.
12. Driveways and Multiple-Car Garages
In the U.S., it’s not unusual for homes to have two- or even three-car garages, plus a driveway. That’s because car ownership is extremely high, especially in suburbs and rural areas with limited public transport. In contrast, many global cities rely on transit, bikes, or walking, and homes often don’t have any off-street parking. In places like Tokyo or Amsterdam, a two-car garage would be unimaginable.
The space to accommodate multiple vehicles is another reflection of the American lifestyle. The car is not just transportation—it’s part of the identity. So the garage isn’t just storage—it’s sacred. Sometimes, it’s even a man cave.
13. Giant Refrigerators Are Just Standard
Walk into an American kitchen and you’re likely to see a fridge the size of a closet. Double doors, built-in water dispensers, freezers that could store a moose—you name it. These are standard in U.S. homes but look gigantic to many from abroad. In Europe or Asia, fridges tend to be smaller and more efficient.
This size difference reflects shopping habits, too. Americans often buy in bulk, freeze leftovers, and stockpile groceries. A smaller fridge just wouldn’t cut it. But elsewhere, daily or weekly market trips are more common, so the fridge stays compact.
14. The Ubiquity of Single-Family Homes
Detached, single-family homes dominate the American residential landscape. Around 70% of U.S. housing units fall into this category. That’s wildly different from countries where apartments or row houses are the norm. In many global cities, high land costs and dense populations make vertical living more practical.
The preference for single-family homes is rooted in American ideals of independence, privacy, and property ownership. There’s a cultural narrative around “having your own land” that doesn’t resonate the same way elsewhere. And with more space available—especially in the heartland—it’s achievable for more people. It’s a cornerstone of the American dream, picket fence and all.
15. Lots and Lots of Toilets
American homes often have multiple bathrooms—two or even three is normal, even for average-sized houses. In fact, many homes have more bathrooms than bedrooms. Compare that to other countries, where one bathroom for the whole family is still common. The focus in the U.S. is convenience and privacy.
Having a guest bathroom is often considered a basic feature, not a luxury. It’s part of a culture where personal space and quick access are highly valued. Globally, people adapt to sharing and take turns—sometimes with a lot of patience. But in the U.S., everyone wants their own porcelain throne.
