The ongoing China Chair Exhibition at Tsinghua University showcases 39 pieces by both ancient craftsmen and modern Chinese designers.[Photo provided to China Daily]

Chinese furniture design is deeply rooted in Confucian culture, but in recent years it has been either following Western trends or going back to the old times, says Liang Mei, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

"When you live the Chinese lifestyle, it is natural to want your own furniture designs. Imitations will not work," she says.

But traditional Chinese furniture needs to cater to a modern way of life, says Wu Yanling, the daughter of renowned furniture designer Wu Bingliang.

"A lot of ancient chair designs focus only on posture, but chairs now have to be comfortable, too," she says.