How Hong Kong's frustrated home cooks are renting fully fitted kitchens
Frustrated with a lack of space at home, Hongkongers are turning to renting kitchens, even if cooking isn't always the top priority
Some feminists used to say, "You start off by sinking into his arms, you finish with your arms in his sink." These days, Hong Kong's frustrated cooks and lovers are apparently content enough just to find a sink.
Young couples seeking kitchens larger than the city's typical minuscule spaces are turning to companies that hire out large fully fitted kitchens with comfortable dining areas attached. Many are finding that the spaces also provide private time away from the families with whom they are often forced to share accommodation. The result isn't just more cooking - some women are finding that a night at such a venue can result in a proposal of marriage.
The main appeal, however, remains with home cooks whose culinary ambitions are thwarted by the lack of space.
Calanthia Wong started the private kitchen space Rent-A-Kitchen in November and says her most frequent customers have been 20- to 30-year-olds. She offers a fully fitted kitchen with a dining room, and while the weekends are taken by friends or families, on weekdays it's dating young couples who use the space.
"There are lots of couples - a guy books the venue and prepares a meal for his girlfriend," says Wong. The venue has seen at least three marriage proposals to date.
Customers are not only renting a kitchen but buying themselves privacy and space, precious commodities in a crowded city with a strong family culture.