In recent years, cane furniture has made a remarkable resurgence in Bangladesh. Its appeal lies in its warm, natural aesthetic and the sustainability it offers, perfectly suited to modern, eco-conscious living. While cane furniture was once associated with traditional styles, it has evolved to fit contemporary homes and busy lifestyles, especially in Dhaka, where smaller apartments demand adaptable and lightweight options.

Why people are opting for cane furniture

The cane furniture of today is far more versatile than the straightforward pieces from a generation ago. Artisans and designers are now crafting cane furniture that marries traditional materials with contemporary design aesthetics, resulting in pieces that fit seamlessly into any decor style – be it minimalist, bohemian, or even industrial.

Photo Courtesy: Cane House

Ashik Hossain, proprietor of Cane House, explains, "Presently, hybrid models are popular among customers, which includes the blending of wood and cane. Not only homeowners, but architects and restaurateurs are using tables, chairs, almirahs, and sofas made from cane and wood."

This fusion of materials creates a unique contrast, balancing the natural elegance of cane with the solidity of wood. It's a popular choice in modern homes and even commercial spaces, where this blend brings both warmth and sophistication.

Moreover, apartments in metropolitan cities such as Dhaka often call for furniture that maximises utility without overwhelming the room. The flexibility of cane furniture makes it ideal for these spaces.

"This type of furniture is fully customisable," Ashik adds. "As apartments in Dhaka are smaller and space is limited, clients can customise the furniture in any way they want – from the size the colour of the fabrics."

This level of customisation enables homeowners to create pieces tailored to their specific needs, from a compact cane sofa to a foldable dining table, making their limited spaces feel more open and versatile.

A sustainable statement

For many, cane furniture represents more than just a piece of decor – it's a statement of sustainable living.

As people grow more conscious of their ecological footprint, materials like cane, sourced from rattan and grown renewably, are increasingly popular. Cane also adapts to the climate of Bangladesh, offering a lightweight, breathable alternative to heavier materials that can trap heat in already warm homes.

"Cane furniture is an eco-friendly product," notes Farhana Sharmin Hossain, proprietor of Troyee Cane Furniture Mart. "Clients prefer it because it's lightweight and moderately adjustable, unlike heavy sofa sets or tables." This eco-conscious appeal resonates with modern Bangladeshi homeowners who want to minimize their impact on the environment while still adding beauty to their homes.

New designs in cane furniture

The cane furniture of today is far more versatile than the straightforward pieces from a generation ago. Artisans and designers are now crafting cane furniture that marries traditional materials with contemporary design aesthetics, resulting in pieces that fit seamlessly into any decor style – be it minimalist, bohemian, or even industrial.

One standout piece in cane furniture today is the classic swing chair, or babui dolna. Farhana shares, "The cane swing chair – also known as babui dolna – is becoming increasingly popular. Along with it, customers are buying trays, tables, and different showpieces such as lamps."

These pieces, Farhana says, bring a cosy, nostalgic touch to homes, adding both function and flair. The demand for cane showpieces is also on the rise, with items like trays, partitions, and lamps adding a rustic yet elegant vibe to modern interiors.

The textured look created by these weaving patterns provides a tactile dimension to interiors, drawing the eye and inviting touch. For instance, a lounge chair with a honeycomb cane back or a sofa with a geometric weave adds an artistic element to the room, making it a focal point.

The design innovations in weaving also offer variety, so homeowners can choose patterns that match their personal aesthetic, whether it's a modern, symmetrical weave or a whimsical, nature-inspired design.

Where to find the perfect cane furniture

With cane furniture growing in popularity, there are plenty of places to discover beautiful pieces both online and offline. For example, Doyel Chattar, Panthapath, and New Market can be your go-to places for traditional cane furniture, often crafted by local artisans with decades of experience.

To conclude, from hybrid designs to the beloved babui dolna, cane furniture has something for everyone, offering a warm, inviting presence that connects people to the natural world. In a fast-paced urban environment, cane furniture creates a calm, grounded atmosphere – one that is perfect for unwinding at the end of a long day.