"After all these years, I would say that clients' demand for furniture has actually remained the same. They make choices based on their aesthetic preferences, lifestyle habits and practical needs. We also receive many customization requests for furniture with modern functionality, just like clients in the past," says Ke.

He has connected with enthusiasts from around the world and hopes to bring greater awareness of the charm of Shanghai-style furniture and its related culture.

Before establishing his current studio in Jiading district, Ke opened Loushi Coffee on Nanchang Road in Huangpu district from 2009 to 2020. The cafe was also a display space for Shanghai furnishings that Ke had collected, restored and designed. It attracted many designers and customers from different countries and walks of life.

Now, he has even greater goals.

"We hope to make our studio more than a private space for display but also a place for exhibitions, experiences, courses, interactive activities and communications to help more people learn more about Shanghai culture," he says.

"And in the long term, instead of 'restoring' Shanghai-style furniture, we hope that we can 'create' Shanghai-style decor and spaces."

Contact the writer at wangxin2@chinadaily.com.cn