Are household appliances getting smaller? Recent trends say so.

The preference for small living spaces as people move to city centers is pushing the shift from large units to compact models.

After years of rolling out supersize appliances that pack multiple features and functions, several manufacturers and leading brands are launching compact units that are not necessarily short on performance and versatility.

Analysts believe the move is in response to a major shift happening in households worldwide: the preference for small living spaces brought about by migration to city centers. This has led many, especially millennials, to adopt a minimalist living, which includes choosing what appliances to buy.

Among the industry giants jumping on this trend is South Korea-based LG Electronics. The company has released recently a two-foot wide washer-dryer combination that uses a single machine to perform both functions and does not require ventilation to dry. US brand Sub-Zero, meanwhile, has launched a line of fridges that tuck conveniently into small under-the-counter drawers.

Appliances blending seamlessly to home and kitchen interiors such as the ones featured in this Tech Talk article are also gaining popularity as they save space and do not disrupt aesthetics.

High-performance portable units are gaining ground as well. This personal air conditioner featured in Mashable Shop is not only powerful and energy-efficient, but also doubles as a humidifier and an air purifier.

Another example is this mini tower that takes up less space but provides ample cooling.

In fact, a quick search on GlobalSources.com for air conditioners and tower fans yield several portable models that combine other functions.

The overall appliance market is predicted to boom in the next few years. Electric household appliances are expected to become a $600 billion industry by 2024 while home cooking appliances are estimated to reach $117 billion during the same period.