“You are wasting space” is one person’s opinion when they don’t value the nature of the space or the impact that the space can have on a person’s psyche. An architect’s job is to create a space that not only functions well but also touches the heart. In fact, touching the heart can often be more important than pure function.
People are adaptable. Habits can be modified, molded and shaped either voluntarily or not. Someone might gladly give up a door or window or a few feet of space if the result is more satisfying spiritually or aesthetically. On a larger scale, someone might choose to have a tiny house in a magnificent setting rather than a larger house in a mundane setting. Witness the increased interest in “Tiny Houses” as of late.
It’s the architect’s job to identify or create these opportunities and to present them to the owner clearly.