'Authentique' contours

(COURTESY OF AUTHENTIQUES)

Davies' idea was echoed by To who was fascinated by antiques because they were so completely different from the modern furniture she saw in the minimalist apartments around Hong Kong.

Davies dubbed the brand Authentiques, a portmanteau of "authentic antiques."

However, finding a storefront where both location and rent are reasonable became a headache given Hong Kong's property market. For them, it was and still is a mission impossible under a relatively tight budget.

The idea of "pop-up showroom" came into their minds after more than a year of preparation. Their first weeklong show kicked off on April 6 at The Space in Sheung Wan, followed by an auction takes place at 6-7 p.m. on April 10. All the 25 items priced between HKD 8,000 ($1,000) and HKD 200,000 ($25,000) available for online preview will go to auction. They have another 40 pieces in a retail range.

"I think the pop-up showroom is the best available solution for us at the moment. Because we could create different show topics in different times," Davies said.

"It sounds like a 'permanent part-time job,' but we take it really seriously and have never worked harder regardless of the storefront's location and business hours," she continued. "Plus the pop-up style gives us more flexibillty than we would have in the banking sector ."

To said they flew to Europe every two or three months to purchase authentic antique furniture built in England, France and Belgium during the 18th and 19th centuries. One of the buying rules they bear in mind is "no beds" because used beds are a taboo in Asia, particularly for Chinese clients.

"I do believe that antique furniture could increase the depth of a home no matter how big or small the size is," Davies noted.

"In fact, they are not as costly and space-consuming as most people think," To noted. "We hope to promote the history, art and culture behind each piece, and see more people appreciating their glamour."