Young South Koreans have grown up with their country's traditional social standards in the context of an increasingly individualistic world. In resistance, many are choosing to take pride in living by themselves, and it's a move that's more empowering than lonely.

With mounting responsibilities and digital distractions, Gen Y are creating personal solitude spaces on their homes in search of some peace and quiet. What can these ‘man caves’ and ‘she sheds’ tell us about the demands of future homebuyers and home decor shoppers?

Thanks to the incessant chatter of social media, addictive mobile games, and the internet of everything, we’re slaves to our screens and incapable of tolerating our own company. Yet solitude is a powerful resource that more people are waking up to as they look to reboot, reflect and get mindful.

The global cost of mental healthcare is set to exceed $6 trillion by 2030, and as dementia, depression and anxiety afflict a greater number of people, it’s unlikely that existing treatment options will be able to meet demand. Can tech, drugs or video games provide a viable alternative?