Bamboo articles have been quite popular in Nepal as well.[break] The mana paathi (traditional measuring instruments) and baskets made of bamboo have been one of the traditional trademarks in the cultural history of Nepal. However, use of bamboo as furniture became a trend only with external or foreign influences.
Besides bamboo, cane has also been one of the equally eco-friendly materials for home articles. Such furniture has been the choice of many homemakers in Nepal for their durability, versatility and minimalist beauty.
“The advantage of bamboo furniture is that they can go with any kind of decor,” shares Sabin Balami, store coordinator at Suprime cane and bamboo showroom in Kupondole. He also adds with a hint of humor, “Another is that it’ll easily last for years, even a lifetime, if you’re not set on breaking them.”
Bamboo and cane furniture are found in variety of designs. If you can’t find what you are looking for, you can even have them custom-built. There are several bamboo furniture makers willing to custom build according to your own designs and specific needs.
Stores like Suprime and Sharan Betbansko Uttam Furniture at Kupondole, which have been in the business for decades, make these furniture in their factories and also take in orders, besides retailing readymade pieces.
“The duration of delivery after the order usually depends on the intricacy of design, so it can take days or even a month,” informs Shivasharan Karki, proprietor of Sharan furniture. Also, according to Balami, a set of cane furniture which includes a sofa, two chairs and a coffee table takes three weeks.
Bamboo and cane beds that were once bought for convenience and affordability have broadened its horizon. Though you can still find some beds made of bamboo and cane along with other materials selling at Rs 1,500 in the market, there are more options available. Some intricately designed bamboo and cane beds even range from Rs 25,000 and above.
Another fun advantage with bamboo and cane furniture like stools, chairs and couches is that it will be welcome in any space of your house. Accessorizing the furniture with cushions to suit the décor of a specific room will make these pieces blend in very naturally, no matter where you place it – kitchens, bedrooms, outdoors, living room corners.
If you go for plainly designed bamboo furniture, play around with different cushions. You can go from earthy toned subtle looking cushions for a relaxed feel to shimmering and colorful cushions for a vibrant touch, and according to your moods.
The choices are many and so are the advantages. With minimum care and polishing in every two to three years, even the old bamboo articles can look as good as new.
As bamboo and cane furniture are never too imposing on any décor, they often create a very relaxed and comforting atmosphere. So, if you are looking to light things up with minimalist and tranquil décor, don’t forget to shop around for some modest bamboo furniture and variety of cushions to go with it.
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