From colonial luxury to modern minimalism: Tracing the evolution of sofas in Bangladesh

The sofa, as we know it, is believed to have its roots in Europe, with France playing a pivotal role in its evolution. Its popularity soared during the Victorian era, when ornate and comfortable furniture symbolised sophistication.

In the Indian subcontinent, sofas are thought to have gained prominence during British colonial rule, particularly in the late 19th century. This influence extended to Bangladesh, where the colonial presence introduced the concept of sofas as part of modern living. Before this, most households relied on stools and benches for sitting and entertaining guests.

In those early days, Bangladeshi artisans crafted sofas inspired by Victorian designs. These pieces were characterised by thick wooden frames, elaborate craftsmanship, and rich velvet upholstery that added a touch of elegance. While bulky by today's standards, these sofas were considered luxurious and a mark of status.

Over time, the design trends in sofas shifted. The Bauhaus style introduced more streamlined, rectangular forms and straighter legs with a deeper focus on practicality. 

This approach evolved further with modern mid-century designs that focused on functionality and simplicity. By the 1980s, a contemporary style emerged, continuously evolving through diverse influences.

In a conversation with TBS, interior designer Nabila Mubasshira, a BUET alumna now pursuing a master's in interior and spatial design, highlighted significant changes in family structures and housing in Bangladesh from the 1980s to the 1990s. Urban areas saw a transition from large joint families to smaller nuclear ones, leading to changes in housing needs and furniture design. 

"Now, with Dhaka's median apartment size around 1,000 square feet and drawing rooms typically measuring only 250 square feet, bulky furniture has become impractical," she said.

This shift has ushered in a wave of minimalist, multifunctional furniture with slim structures and geometric designs that blend Indo-Western aesthetics. Customizable, smart furniture is now a hit—like a sofa that transforms into a bed, much like a futon.

"Clean lines and simple geometric shapes with earthy tones define modern furnishing trends today," explains Architect Dishan Rahman. "Muted, warm, straight-lined furniture with minimal ornamentation, natural wood and soft tactile materials are popular. People now value pieces that are both functionally practical and visually soothing."

Brands like Hatil, Boho, Isho, and Regal have played a major role in popularising these contemporary styles. Consultancy firms like Sheraspace even help clients choose and arrange sofas tailored to their needs and aesthetic preferences.

Dishan notes that the younger generation has embraced the 'less is more' philosophy, often drawn to concepts like Japanese minimalism—Feng Shui, Kensho—and Scandinavian interior design. The trending "Japandi" style, a blend of Japan's 'wabi-sabi' (beauty in imperfection) and Scandinavia's 'hygge' (warmth and cosiness), epitomises this mindset. While "Japandi" interiors are in vogue now, they date back to the 1860s and have never truly fallen out of style.

The once-popular intricate designs are being replaced by a more thoughtful and balanced approach to decor, focusing on simplicity, functionality, and comfort.

"It brings a sense of comfort and calmness to the space. As mindfulness and self-care become more popular among people, they are more inclined towards sustainable minimal living and making their home a modern sanctuary," she added.

The shift in material

A report by Hatil notes that during the British era, local furniture makers were often commissioned by British officials and wealthy locals to create pieces in the British style. As a result, many early Bangladeshi furniture designs featured a distinctly colonial aesthetic, characterised by ornate carvings and heavy use of wood.

At the time, traditional materials and techniques also played a key role in shaping Bangladeshi furniture designs, blending local craftsmanship with colonial influences.

By the 1980s, steel furniture gained popularity, alongside wood and bamboo. A major driver of the country's growing furniture industry was the availability of skilled yet affordable labour, which allowed manufacturers to produce high-quality pieces at competitive prices, making them more accessible to local consumers.

While wood remains a popular choice for sofa bases, engineered wood and plywood have become more in demand than ever, due to their lightweight and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, brands like RFL have introduced plastic-based sofas, offering even more variety to meet consumer needs.