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Growing up in the Midwest of the United States, Larry and Debra Stake had no exposure to anything Chinese. They moved to Beijing a year ago because of Larry's job with Caterpillar, the American manufacturer of construction and mining equipment.

Before they came to Beijing, the Stakes had lived in Singapore for two years, so they saw a lot of old Chinese movies on television. Because the shows had English sub-titles, they were able to learn a little about the Chinese people and culture and saw how homes looked in the old days. They started to explore antique furniture markets together and began to buy pieces to furnish their home. Each time they went shopping they felt they were adding to their knowledge of Chinese culture and history. "It's like going to a museum, or walking onto a set of a Chinese movie like those we saw on TV," Debra said. 

Plying furniture markets together on the weekends is still a favourite pastime for the couple. To prepare for the day, they get a good night's rest and don't start out too early. They don good walking shoes and carry notes and measurements with them when they head out to one of the many traditional furniture marts around the city. Such treks can easily take a whole day.

When they shop, Debra and Larry first survey all the stores. If they see something they like, they talk and decide where a piece might fit in their plans. Functionality is an important consideration for them. Then they try to get a good idea of what the item really should cost by checking with various vendors who sell similar pieces. If the price of an item fits their budget, and if they have a specific need for a piece, they will consider buying it. Debra says they never buy anything on impulse, and they always contemplate a purchase together. 

The pieces the Stakes brought from Singapore are classic and unique. What was a rack once used by Mongolians for hauling things on horseback is now a table base with a glass table top in their master bedroom. Overnight guests at the Stake's get the pleasure of resting on a bed with an ornate and intricately carved frame. They've also filled their home with pieces they’ve bought in Beijing. Debra carefully ensures that the colours and tones of all pieces match and that they flow together.

Debra has decorated their home, a brand new apartment near the Fifth Ring Road, with elegance, warmth and whimsy, such as the tree-branch shaped coat hanger that is used to hang her birdcage. She has a natural artistic sense for blending the old with the new and making things work. A custom-made shelf was made with the right measurement, but when the piece was put against the wall, it looked awkward. By moving the shelf forward a bit, a new effect was created.

Debra has already thought about where the furniture will go whenever they move from China. "We have two children in different cities and we will get a condo near them. We'll decorate one with a Brazilian theme and another as Chinese," she said. "For sure, there will be a place to put the furniture. I love every piece of my furniture and they will go with us."