2nd word, noise.
With more and more hard floor materials like wood and tile the sound bounces off the ceilings and floors. I for one do not want to hear the kitchen noises when in the living room reading this form on my computer.
The remodeling shows seam to be promoting this style of home with the family member stating in most of the shows "I want an open floor plans so I can see my kids from every room in the house if that's possible!" oh, and 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, an office, a 3 plus car garage, an art studio and no neighbors!
You never hear them say I want solar panels on my roof do you!