Changes in tech, family roles and tastes have seen kitchens evolve from utilitarian rooms meant for domestic labour to open plan spaces featuring chef-grade equipment and movable workstations. But why are more are more people opting for these high-end, high-priced status kitchens?

With 425 sq ft apartments becoming the norm in North America, space is an issue. But as more people want to eat well, there's nowhere to put the juicer and sous-vide machine. The Kitchen Library in Toronto lets people rent kitchen equipment for a small fee, saving space and money.

Do Germans still booze on beer and snack on sausage? Does beauty still equal blonde hair and blue eyes? In our 2015 cultural snapshot of Germany, we demystify cultural myths, shed light on the country’s economic outlook, and explore the emerging and established trends across 11 sectors.

Why are kitchens becoming performance spaces? Why are little ones living it large? How are people building their perfect home and why are cities getting new residents?