Upon entering the room, visitors are confronted with walls that double as displays, lit up with mesmerising patterns that undulate with the movement of the crowd. This isn't just a digital installation from French artist Miguel Chevalier, but a promotion for Hermès' latest tie range.

You may already be able to furnish your home with the latest designer goods, but now you can live in one built by a true fashion force. Design powerhouse Giorgio Armani has teamed up with Chinese real estate company Smart Hero Group to bring ultimate luxury to a residential project in Beijing.

For most people, chores are a necessity and rarely a pleasure; a third of Brits would rather pay to have someone else do them. But could a shift in our perception of these tasks, underpinned by thoughtfully designed products, make them more pleasant? Can beautiful brooms make sweeping fun?

Has it become cool to be kind? Why are image-conscious men swapping power tools for man bags? Can we really get a local touch from a globalised brand? And does the future of the luxury sector live online?