The founders of Orient House opened their first store in the inner-city suburb of Pyrmont in 1998, initially focusing on goods from China.
“We’ve grown from three containers of Chinese furniture a year to 24 containers from all over the world,” says Jenny Liebson.
“We started in China and then about 15 years ago, we ventured to Korea and Thailand, and then Indonesia and India, and we always go back to Africa, where we were born.”
Artefacts in the Orient House store (Supplied) Source: SBS Small Business Secrets
The Liebson siblings grew up in South Africa, and their father was a keen collector of unique furniture.
Twenty years in the business has honed Ms Liebson’s eye for design, and she says that gives her and her brother a unique advantage.
“I really don’t believe it’s something that can be taught. Adam and I travel with filthy things, with rats running around,” says Ms Liebson.
“We see a piece of furniture and within that; we can see the inherent beauty when it’s restored.”
After two decades of travelling to source goods from all over the world, Ms Liebson has created a valuable network of contacts for the business owners, who rely on local suppliers to find quality items.
Co-founder Jenny Liebson (Supplied) Source: SBS Small Business Secrets
“In India, when Raja was advised that a palace is being pulled down, and he’s invited to the auction of the bits and pieces, he knows there are pieces there that we will buy from him,” Ms Liebson says.
“It’s incredibly important; those relationships are what make our pieces.”
But, getting these artefacts into Australia comes with its own share of challenges, some of which have a direct financial impact on the business.
“Beautiful pieces that have maybe had a bit of algae or a little bit of dirt, I understand that you’re not allowed to bring them in, but if it’s been fumigated, a little bit of leeway would be nice,” says Ms Liebson.
“And, there are all the things that have changed in banking…it might be at the end of the financial year when your accountant says to you, do you know that you paid $20,000 in bank fees and charges, that you take a big step and say, that’s $20,000 of my bottom line.”
Many of the items in the store come from South Africa (Supplied) Source: SBS Small Business Secrets
While balancing the books is a concern for Ms Liebson now, she sees another problem emerging which could have a major impact on her business.
Travelling the world has allowed her a unique window to look into the lives of artisans and craftspeople, but she’s sad to note that many ancient traditions may soon die out.
The store is popular with interior designers (Supplied) Source: SBS Small Business Secrets
“When we first started buying a certain basket from the north of Thailand, there were 60 weavers there. There’s five left,” she said.
“Once those old guys pass away, there’s going to be absolutely no one left to make those beautiful baskets.”
Ms Liebson says looking for these unique artefacts has allowed her to see the beauty in the world, even in times of conflict.
“There’s a unique opportunity in every country. In South Africa, despite all the violence and poverty, they’re the most amazingly creative people."
“You can find the most beautiful products, and in spite of all the adversity, there’s something to find everywhere.”
Watch the full story on Small Business Secrets Sunday 7am & 5pm on SBS.
