Furnishing a career steeped in heritage

But making these pieces is only the beginning. The tradition extends into artifact restoration, antique reproduction and contemporary design. In each of these areas, artisans, restoration specialists and designers are preserving a dual heritage — the practical skills of woodworking and the deep cultural roots that ground these creations.

The result is a bridge between the past and future, where handcrafted furniture serves as a functional piece and a vessel of China's cultural legacy, inviting modern audiences to connect with tradition through the objects they use every day.

Liu has spent over 40 years crafting wooden furniture. He was born and raised in Beijing's Luban Hutong, an alley that was named after the legendary master carpenter Lu Ban and teeming with artisans and craft shops.

At 19, Liu followed his father's footsteps, joining the century-old brand Longshuncheng to learn the craft of Beijing-style wooden furniture.

Beyond crafting, Liu has mastered the skills of restoring antique furniture. In 1999, he established a restoration center.

"Some customers bring us nothing more than a pile of wood, barely more than kindling. We approach each piece with a genuine desire to restore it to its former glory," Liu says.

"From a single piece, you can glimpse the design philosophy and craftsmanship of the time, and also the continuity of Chinese culture."