Building a design-led furniture industry

“To compete globally, Bangladeshi manufacturers must invest in design, technology, quality consistency, skilled talent, efficient production, recognised certifications and reliable delivery standards.”

Faiza Ibrahim Founder & CEO, Sencillo

Bangladesh’s premium furniture market is moving beyond costly materials towards design, functionality and experience. Faiza Ibrahim, Founder & CEO of Sencillo, discusses changing urban demand, the capabilities local manufacturers need, and what could help Bangladeshi furniture brands compete internationally in a conversation with The Daily Star.

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The Daily Star (TDS): How has Bangladesh’s premium furniture segment evolved, and what gap did Sencillo seek to address?

Faiza Ibrahim (FI): Over the past two decades, the industry has moved from a largely carpenter-driven market towards a more organised, branded and design-conscious one. Premium furniture is no longer defined only by expensive materials; customers increasingly value design, quality, functionality and the overall experience. When Sencillo launched in 2023, we saw room for a locally manufactured brand combining international design sensibilities, ergonomics and customisation.

TDS: What investments support that positioning, and how are changing consumer preferences shaping your collections?

FI: We continue to invest in modern machinery, skilled craftsmanship, digital design and production tools, research, prototyping and workforce training. Local production using premium imported materials lets us maintain quality while adapting designs to the needs of Bangladeshi homes and projects. Consumers, meanwhile, are embracing contemporary, slightly edgy aesthetics and want more customisation, ergonomic comfort and space-efficient, multifunctional furniture.

TDS: How does Sencillo approach sustainability in its materials and manufacturing?

FI: We prioritise ethically sourced timber and suppliers that support traceability and environmental compliance. We also optimise material use to reduce waste, employ efficient production processes to lower energy consumption, and design furniture for durability. Longer-lasting products reduce the need for frequent replacement and therefore their overall environmental impact.

TDS: How important are project-based clients, and where do you see export opportunities?

FI: Working with architects, interior designers, developers and commercial clients is an important growth driver. It enables larger, more specialised projects and gives us insight into evolving market needs. Internationally, we are exploring markets where contemporary furniture from Bangladesh can offer strong value, particularly modular and customisable furniture, upholstered pieces and selected home products.

TDS: What must the industry do to compete globally, and what policy support would help?

FI: Manufacturers need stronger design and technology capabilities, consistent quality, skilled talent, efficient production, recognised certifications and reliable delivery. Lower duties on essential raw materials and machinery, easier financing, export incentives and local certification facilities would improve competitiveness. With such support, Sencillo could become a stronger regional design-led brand while Bangladesh develops a more sophisticated, export-oriented furniture industry.