The US kitchen market is worth five times that of the countrys film industry and is widely seen as a new form of self-expression, the Economist has reported. According to the magazine, Americas obsessions with tailoring kitchen to reflect unique styles - ranging from the wholesome Victorian look to distinctly offbeat, modern designs - embodies a growing global trend towards personalising peoples homes. But with the kitchen traditionally being seen as a symbol of functional practicality and perhaps even outdated notions of female-domesticity, the booming market is surprising some pundits. According to the Times, the average budget for a kitchen makeover in the UK is 26,000 and showcases around the world including Dubai, Shanghai and Istanbul are all reporting robust sales. People want to express themselves through their kitchens, an IKEA spokesman told the newspaper. Today, the dream of an open living kitchen designed for social use is universal. News brought to you in association with expert online providers of innovative and handcrafted contemporary chrome sockets and switches.