enabling "classic" look in Windows 7 - or at least reducing window edge widths

After looking here, I'm still at a loss.

Is it possible to enable a "Classic" view a la Windows XP's theme that would make the environment look more like Windows 2000?

If not, is there a way to reduce the size of Window borders?

Yes, Open My Computer > Click on System Properties > Advance System Settings (At left pane) > Advance Tab > Setting (Under Performance) > Click on Adjust for Best Performance. Click OK a few times.

After all these there should be notable change in the visuals of the screen.

Alternatively if you are on Windows 7 Ultimate (other version won't support) you can simply right click on the desktop > select personalize :
Here themes are arranged into 3 sections.

• Unsaved Theme (If you have recently changed your wallpaper recently..)
• Aero theme (This is the collection that Microsoft offers with Windows)
• The last one is Basic and High Contrast Themes, here you will find Windows Classic theme that you are in need of.