As a rule almost any UI redesign of just about any product in the last decade will increase padding and reduce information density. I don't know if it's because the average designer/user is getting older or large screens are more common so it seems like there's lots of room available thus it can be wasted.

Sadly, this often applies to Linux as well, so there's no escape. I guess Xfce is still around at least.

People tend to behave as they're treated, so treat them like toddlers and ruling them becomes a lot easier.