I normally only play in 40x30 houses
and use the bigger lots for fun outings.
I also use mccc mod to slow down the time so I have no issues there. I rarely use second floors in big lots and if i decide to play in a really big lot i have vampires with fast run ability.
Another thing I've done to play in a big lot without having a vampire is make half of it pool and garden. Put all the necessities close by Lol. Love it for my rich celebrities.
I struggle to play in small lots because I like to play with the walls up.
I also take advantage of the lock doors feature to keep up if I have a lot of sims. And I keep the toddler in a playpen made with the colorful fences.