Mini Minecraft

When I first started Minecraft and learned about the horrors of night I instantly knew I needed a shelter. I remember my first house, a 2x3 box of jungle planks hastily set up during the last few moments of light with a door and a single torch. I survived in my tiny shack as zombies and creepers came soliciting, and emerged triumphantly as morning rose after my night of passive defense.
Not much has changed in my style set by that first fateful night in regards to the sizes of by survival structures.

"If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

I continue to build my houses ranging from 5x7 or smaller, satisfied with what I can do in minimal space.
Though much of the community seems to display a liking in larger structures I am throughly content with the smaller dwellings.
Which brought to my curiosity: Who else prefers little houses, why, and what are the pros and cons to said housing?

Lack of space?
Easier to find things?
Challenging creativity?

Give me your opinion and perhaps ideas or experience in creating a house for the space-savers.

~ Lmeagno