SUNSHINE BRICKS: Champion of Green Construction
“It’s not about 10-hole bricks. It’s about a formula for a lifetime investment.” That is how Sakif Ariff Tabani, vice chairman of Mirpur Ceramics, Khadim Ceramics and Sunshine Bricks, describes the philosophy behind one of Bangladesh’s most ambitious ventures in the building materials sector. In a country where traditional red bricks have long dominated construction, Sunshine Bricks has emerged as a standout brand, reshaping expectations of durability, design, and sustainability. From Habiganj to the National Stage
Architect Rashed and the Poetics of Practice
In the crowded clusters of Dhaka’s architectural offices—where every firm spoke in bold, predetermined tones—finding an original voice was never easy. For Architect Rashed Hassan Chowdhury, the journey began not with buildings, but with books and design experiments of all kinds. Encouraged by his elder brother to pursue architecture, he entered BUET carrying curiosity and a restless desire to make and learn. Even as a student, Rashed was never confined to one discipline. He moved fluidly between
The Art of Playful Design A Look Inside BRAC University’s Child-Centric Sanctuary
A new chapter in early childhood care begins with the opening of the second BRAC University Daycare Centre, located in the vibrant Badda Campus of BRAC University, Dhaka. This thoughtfully designed facility serves as a sanctuary for children up to eight years old, offering a nurturing environment that prioritizes safety and development. Designed by Dwm4 Intrends, with an enchanting lighting scheme from Miro Lighting, the daycare centre is a dynamic and imaginative world where play, learning, and exploration
Every year on the 26th of March, Bangladesh proudly celebrates its Independence Day—a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and national pride. This historic day marks the beginning of the nation’s struggle for freedom in 1971, when the call for independence united millions of people. The journey to independence was marked by immense sacrifice. Millions of brave martyrs laid down their lives to secure the freedom we cherish today. Their courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit became the foundation of an independent Bangladesh. The Liberation War of 1971 was not just a battle for land, but a fight for identity, culture, and dignity. On this day, the nation pays deep respect to those heroes. The National Martyrs’ Memorial stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance, where people from all walks of life gather to honor their sacrifice. The national flag flies high across the country, representing the pride, freedom, and blood that shaped the nation. Independence Day is not only a time to remember the past but also a moment to reflect on our responsibilities. It inspires us to uphold unity, justice, and progress, and to contribute to building a stronger and more prosperous Bangladesh. As we celebrate this great day, we renew our commitment to the values of freedom and honor the sacrifices of our heroes. Salute to the martyrs of our independence. Their legacy lives on forever.
Hands of a Hundred Thousand Stories
In a large workshop, the air carries the smell of moist clay and burnt oil. Before a single bone china plate reaches the station of Morium Begum or Kamrun Nahar, it has already gone through many steps. It has been shaped by machines, fired until it is as hard as stone, and covered in liquid transparent glaze. But in the final stage of its creation, the loud sounds of industry fade. The atmosphere becomes quiet and focused. Here, hands that know the journey from raw clay to finished vessel perform the most delicate work. These are the hands of artisans. They guide thin, fragile decals onto smooth ceramic surfaces. Each touch is important. Each movement is a blessing on products that will travel to dinner tables around the world. These hands belong to Morium Begum and Kamrun Nahar. They are senior workers, known as “Uchha Dakkhya”—high-skilled artisans. Their lives are deeply connected to this place. Morium has worked in the Export Decoration Department for 25 years. Kamrun has spent 22 years in Bone China Decoration. Their story is not about mass production. It is about careful, patient work and the building of a future. “I’ve been working here for 25 years,” says Morium. Her voice carries conviction. It is more than loyalty to a job. “It doesn’t even feel like we are at a job.” In Bangladesh, factory work is often temporary and difficult. Many workers move from one place to another, facing harsh conditions. So what makes this factory different? What unwritten promise has turned it into a home for these women for more than two decades? The answer is not only in the products they make. It is in the lives they have built through this work. A Day’s Work: The Rhythm of the Kiln In the wide world of ceramic manufacturing, the decoration department is special. It is where the object finds its soul. It is a major step before completion, the moment when a blank plate or cup becomes something unique. Morium and Kamrun are the guardians of this transformation. Their days follow a rhythm shaped by tens of thousands of hours of practice. The morning begins not with machines, but with quiet preparation. They clean their stations. They arrange their tools. They prepare the raw material: stacks of ceramic ware, called “oil” in factory language. Each piece is carefully wiped to make sure the surface is flawless. Then they turn to the decals. These are intricate designs printed on special paper. The paper is dipped in water. Slowly, the design loosens from its backing. It is ready to be transferred. This is the most delicate moment. They lift the fragile film of colour from the water and slide it onto the ceramic surface. The placement must be perfect. The design must flow with the curves of the cup or bowl. No machine can do this. Only memory, skill, and an artist’s eye guide them. Once the decal is in place, they use a simple rubber tool. With gentle strokes, they press out every tiny air bubble and drop of water. “The design is placed on the ware, and then a rubber tool is used to gently rub and set it,” Kamrun explains. Her hands mimic the motion. “After it’s fired, the design is permanent. It won’t even wash off.” The final firing, called Decoration Firing Kiln (oven), makes the design indelible. The decorated pieces go back into the furnace. The heat fuses the decal into the glaze. The process is technical, demanding, and repetitive. Yet the meaning of their work goes beyond mechanics. To understand why they have given their lives to this craft, one must look at the culture of the factory. More Than a Factory: A Foundation for Family For Morium and Kamrun, the factory has been the backdrop of their adult lives. They entered as young women. Over time, they became matriarchs. The culture of the workplace shaped them as much as the skills they learned. It is a culture built on respect. On the factory floor, there are no raised voices. No harsh commands. The sound is a low, cooperative murmur. This is very different from the verbal abuse that they hear is common in other industries. “We don’t speak to anyone harshly here,” Morium says. “We don’t even raise our voices.” This dignity is matched by flexibility. It allows them to be both workers and mothers. When their children had exams or when illness struck, they could take leave for 15 days, even a month. They did not fear losing their jobs. This security is rare. “It’s just like a government job,” Kamrun says. “We can take a month off if we need it. You won’t get that anywhere else.” Support is built into the system. There is a medical centre with doctors and nurses. There is a daycare for young children. But the strongest support comes from the community itself. The women call each other sisters. They share joys and sorrows. One story shows this bond clearly. At the wedding of a cook’s daughter, workers pooled money to help with expenses. The “chairman madam” attended the celebration. Management and staff stood together. In such moments, differences of religion or background disappear. They eat together. They work together. They share goals. This respect, flexibility, and community have created stability. It is the foundation on which Morium and Kamrun have built their lives. It is what allowed them to dream of something lasting for their children. From Artisans to Architects of the Future The true measure of their decades of labour is not in the countless plates and cups they have decorated. It is in the futures they are building. Their hands have shaped clay, but they have also shaped possibilities. Morium is now the sole provider for her family. Her husband, once a worker at
SUNSHINE BRICKS: Champion of Green Construction
“It’s not about 10-hole bricks. It’s about a formula for a lifetime investment.” That is how Sakif Ariff Tabani, vice chairman of Mirpur Ceramics, Khadim Ceramics and Sunshine Bricks, describes the philosophy behind one of Bangladesh’s most ambitious ventures in the building materials sector. In a country where traditional red bricks have long dominated construction, Sunshine Bricks has emerged as a standout brand, reshaping expectations of durability, design, and sustainability. From Habiganj to the National Stage Sunshine Bricks was founded to revolutionise Bangladesh’s brick industry. Based in Habiganj, it serves growing demand for quality building materials nationwide. As part of the Mirpur Ceramics group, alongside Khadim Ceramics—both renowned for manufacturing excellence—the company was created to fill a market gap for ceramic bricks and blocks that combine durability with aesthetic appeal. “With a strong foundation in ceramics, Sunshine Bricks was launched to evolve into a leading brand in Bangladesh’s ceramic bricks and structural clay product industry,” said the vice chairman. Traditional red bricks offered strength but little else. Sunshine Bricks changed that by investing in advanced technology and automation, producing materials that enhance structures while meeting the highest standards of quality. “Over time, Sunshine has become a key player in domestic and international markets, offering sustainable, versatile products for diverse construction needs,” said Sakif Ariff Tabani. The “Wonder Blocks” Sunshine Bricks is not a traditional auto-bricks company using Chinese technology. It is not about producing 10-hole bricks. Instead, it is about creating products that deliver comfortable living conditions and cost savings in energy consumption. Certified for eco-friendly products, the company has positioned itself as a pioneer in sustainable building materials. Among its most celebrated innovations are ceramic clay blocks, branded as “Wonder Blocks”. “These blocks are ideal for high-rise buildings, offering eco-friendly and energy-saving solutions,” said Sakif Ariff Tabani. “Sunshine Bricks is also the first company in Bangladesh to produce facing bricks, coloured and textured bricks, and ceramic blocks—setting it apart from traditional manufacturers.” “The coloured and textured bricks offer architects and developers a wide variety of designs and colours, enabling visually striking facades for residential and commercial buildings,” he said. Produced using cutting-edge technology, these bricks ensure durability, weather resistance, and colour consistency. The ceramic blocks are designed for specific purposes such as soundproofing and lightweight building solutions. Their lightweight nature reduces the overall weight of a structure without compromising strength, while their sound-insulating properties make them ideal for noise-sensitive areas. “By introducing these products, Sunshine Bricks is addressing modern needs such as energy efficiency, noise control, and aesthetic value,” said the veteran entrepreneur. Technology at the Core Sustainability is embedded in Sunshine Bricks’ production process. The company employs state-of-the-art technology to minimise environmental impact while ensuring high-quality output. Its fully automated production line ensures precision and consistency, reducing waste and optimising resources. A key innovation is Tunnel Kiln Technology, which is far more energy-efficient than traditional kiln methods. Tunnel kilns use controlled heat distribution, allowing for consistent firing and better energy use. This reduces the carbon footprint while ensuring higher-quality bricks with fewer defects. Recycling processes are also integral. Water used in manufacturing is filtered and reused, minimising waste. Raw materials are sourced responsibly, and the company incorporates alternative, eco-friendly materials into production. Sustainability is not an afterthought but a guiding principle. The “Green Champion” Recognition The decision to invest in Tunnel Kiln Technology was driven by efficiency and environmental responsibility. Traditional vertical kilns are costly and environmentally damaging. Tunnel kilns, by contrast, allow for consistent production with less energy consumption and precise temperature control. The result is higher-quality bricks with fewer defects. The measurable gains have been significant. Energy consumption has reduced by about 30 percent, while emissions have decreased substantially. The use of alternative fuels in firing further lowers the carbon footprint. These achievements earned Sunshine Bricks the “Green Champion” title, validating its efforts. For Tabani, however, the recognition is more than an accolade—it is a reminder that sustainability in manufacturing is necessary for long-term success. Serving Diverse Markets Sunshine Bricks serves customers across domestic and international markets. Its primary clients include government entities and public sector projects, supplying materials for major initiatives such as the metro rail, railway infrastructure, and education sector developments. These large-scale projects demand durability, consistency, and high quality—hallmarks of Sunshine Bricks. The private sector is equally vital. Developers, architects, and homeowners rely on the company for solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. From luxury residences to commercial and mixed-use projects, Sunshine Bricks delivers products that meet diverse needs. Internationally, Sunshine Bricks has expanded into the Middle East and Singapore, where demand for innovative, high-quality materials is rising. By tailoring offerings to local codes and design preferences, Sunshine Bricks has ensured adaptability—key to its success across markets. A Legacy Since 1958 Sunshine Bricks is part of a proud legacy dating back to 1958, when Mirpur Ceramics first began producing bricks and building materials in Bangladesh. Over the decades, Mirpur Ceramics earned a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation. That experience and commitment are deeply embedded in Sunshine Bricks today. Drawing on this rich history, Sunshine Bricks represents the modern evolution of Bangladesh’s brick and ceramics industry. Decades of expertise have been combined with advanced automation, eco-friendly technology, and modern design concepts to meet the growing demands of sustainable urban development. Leading the Transformation As Bangladesh urbanises, demand for sustainable, high-quality building materials is rising. Sunshine Bricks sees itself leading this transformation—driving the industry toward greener, smarter, and more design-oriented solutions. The company also seeks to expand internationally, showcasing Bangladeshi innovation through exports to the Middle East and Southeast Asia. With over six decades of experience, Sunshine Bricks is not just building structures—it is helping build a more sustainable and progressive Bangladesh. Redefining Building
bti focuses on affordable housing to achieve SDGs due time
The Building Technology & Ideas Ltd (bti), a real estate developing company in Bangladesh, started its journey in 1984. Over the years, the company has become a pioneer in the construction of high-rise and luxury buildings in the country. The company has already constructed around 450 buildings so far, and is working on 72 projects at the moment, and additional 100 projects are in pipelines. It has around 8,000 clients. “Thanks to maintaining customers’ commitment, accountability, delivering product timely, and ensuring quality products, the bti has made its today’s place in the country’s real estate sector,” Faizur Rahman Khan, managing director of the bti, shared his views with the Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine in an exclusive interview. He said the company’s motto is customer satisfaction. However, the bti started its journey with three projects in 1984. The company had six projects in 1990. How did bti expand its business? In 1992, it started building costlier luxury apartments in Gulshan at first, and in 1993 in Baridhara. It was a milestone for the real estate sector. Basically, the housing industry continued to expand after 2000. But in the 2007-08 year, the industry began to suffer owing to political unrest, Faizur Rahman informed. He stated that innovation is what sets the company apart from others. “We always try to bring innovation in every project. Customers are overwhelmed by our diversity. That is why they feel comfortable with the bti. Now it is a leader in aesthetic architecture.” In the 1990s, real estate companies faced a difficulty to buy land for housing as individual owners did not want to give up their lands easily. Besides, there were also complications regarding the registration of lands and flats. The bti took the initiative to build houses by sharing apartments with the landowners and approached the government for legislation. Later, only land registration was possible at the time. As a result, if you bought a flat, you would not be the owner of the land. “We started linking the flat ownership with the land ownership,” he said. He added that the Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh (REHAB) has 500- 600 registered members. Of this, literally, there are 5-6 companies who are very active in the sector, and 10-12 companies who did one-two projects. The rest of the companies are ‘name only company’. “We cordially maintain commitment to customer, and hand over projects timely which are very crucial for the business. Even, we try to hand over projects before several months ago from agreement time for last few years. We don’t compromise in design and construction so we follow all codes, and rules of RAJUK and other organizations. We think so that clients are not faced any troubles in future,” the managing director said. Basically, bti serves three category of apartments – luxury apartment, classic, and affordable. The luxury apartments are generally built in Gulshan, Banana, Baridhara, and Dhanmondi areas. Classic apartments high demand to customers. The highest number of this apartments is in Bashundhara region where 40 mid-level projects are undergoing, and others are at Lalmatia, Mogbazar, and Segunbagicha areas. “Finally, affordable apartments—recently we started this as IMF and World Bank encourage it to ensure SDGs,” Rahman said. Generally, its apartment size is 500-600 squre feet. Its price is less than Tk 50 lakh. Customers can buy the apartment taking 70% of loan. So, bank loan should be fixed at reasonable interest rate for a long time. Ensuring safe and affordable housing for all Faizur Rahman highlighted that now the bti is focusing on affordable housing to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) right time. In this regard, they discuss with a Japanese company to ensure Tk 200 crore investment in the industry. The affordable housing is addressed within the United Nation (UN)’s SDG- 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. Specifically, SDG target 11.1 by 2030 calls to ‘ensure access for all to ensure adequate, safe and affordable housing and basic services, and upgrade slums’. “To achieve the goal, all government’s officials should be cordial. There is needed a bribe, corruption, and hassles free business environment in the country,” he also commented. Real estate industry facing multiple challenges Faizur Rahman highlighted that the industry is facing multiple challenges including Detailed Area Plan (DAP). The DAP should be practical. There is a big gap between academia and industry. To make it successful, there is needed consultation with the realtors. The Floor Area Ratio (FAR) should not reduce such level which will create a problem to give space for the people as it is a density population country. Investment in projects has become slow as the government halted many mega projects. Besides, there is political instability right now. So, the demand for apartments also decline. Potential of ceramic products in housing industry Faizur Rahman said there is huge potential of ceramic products particularly tiles in real estate industry. The demand for the items rapidly increased in both local and international markets. The products contribute to bring attractive, and save time in construction of buildings. Written By Rafikul Islam
FIERO’s Custom Clothing and Changing Urban Rituals in Bangladesh
What began as a modest idea in mid-2017—to provide home-service tailoring for people constrained by time—has, within eight and a half years, evolved into FIERO, a leading bespoke and made-to-measure clothing practice in Bangladesh. Rooted in Dhaka yet informed by global traditions of craftsmanship, FIERO reflects a quiet shift in how custom clothing is conceived, experienced, and delivered in the local context. To understand this shift, it is necessary to look back at the tailoring culture that shaped earlier generations. For decades, the ritual was familiar: men accompanying their fathers or uncles to fabric stores overflowing with rolls of cloth in every imaginable colour and quality—good, bad, and everything in between. One would select a fabric, have it cut, leave measurements behind, and depart. The process was largely transactional, often hurried, and rarely comfortable. Instead of functioning like a conventional store, the tailoring journey is reimagined as something closer to being hosted in a living room. Guests are encouraged to slow down, sit comfortably with a cup of tea, and engage in unhurried conversation about what they wish to make. Founder and Managing Partner Syed Easir Alam (Yasir) explains that this sense of hospitality is intentional. “We welcome our guests with tea when they enter. Then we sit together and discuss fabric options. Our store is not a display centre of fabrics,” he says. With globalisation and changing lifestyles, bespoke clothing gradually became repositioned as a more exclusive, almost privileged service. Yet demand persisted across social strata—from lower-middle to upper segments—particularly among professionals, corporate executives, and business leaders for whom clothing remains closely tied to identity and confidence. FIERO emerged at this intersection of inherited practice and contemporary expectation. While a few brands in Bangladesh now offer bespoke services, FIERO’s approach centres less on retail and more on process. Rather than racks and shelves, fabrics are curated through carefully organised swatch books. Sourced from different parts of the world, these materials offer a range of quality and variety rarely available locally. Today, the collection includes more than 10,000 fabric options. Displaying such a volume physically would be impractical, but through swatches, clients can compare textures, weights, and finishes—many of them high-end, super-fine fabrics not commonly found in Bangladesh. This working method directly influenced the spatial decisions behind FIERO’s flagship space on Gulshan Avenue. The previous location, less than half the size, was inadequate for hosting multiple guests comfortably. The new space was conceived not merely as a store, but as a place where time could be spent without pressure. Guests may book appointments or walk in, settle into the space, and look out over the city. The intention is clear: no rushing, no crowding—only a calm environment that feels closer to home than to retail. Once fabrics are selected, measurements are taken by an in-house tailor to maintain consistency and quality. Design decisions follow, guided by a comprehensive catalogue that brings together options across categories—from trousers and jackets to full suits. Rather than prescribing styles, the process encourages clients to participate actively, choosing details that align with their needs and lifestyles. The interior design reinforces this approach. “We needed a place that felt like home—spacious and breathable,” says Alam. The layout prioritises openness, uninterrupted sightlines, and abundant daylight. Visual connections between inside and outside are maintained, allowing the city to remain a constant backdrop. A small book corner acknowledges FIERO’s largely educated and corporate clientele, for whom reading and reflection are familiar parts of daily life. In an era when people are increasingly particular—even about sleepwear—custom clothing demands attention to detail and emotional comfort. FIERO recognises that good decisions are made in good moods, and that environment plays a crucial role in the making process. Designed by Kaleek Consultants, the interior balances functionality with warmth: a continuous open space, multiple lounge-like seating areas, fitting rooms, tailoring zones, and work areas, all unified by light, views, and calm. FIERO’s story is not only about clothing. It is about rethinking bespoke tailoring in Bangladesh as a process shaped by time, comfort, and thoughtful design as much as by craftsmanship—offering a grounded example of what “Made in Bangladesh” can signify today. Written By Sadia Tarannum
Every year on the 26th of March, Bangladesh proudly celebrates its Independence Day—a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and national pride. This historic day marks the beginning of the nation’s struggle for freedom in 1971, when the call for independence united millions of people. The journey to independence was marked by immense sacrifice. Millions of brave martyrs laid down their lives to secure the freedom we cherish today. Their courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit became the foundation of an independent Bangladesh. The Liberation War of 1971 was not just a battle for land, but a fight for identity, culture, and dignity. On this day, the nation pays deep respect to those heroes. The National Martyrs’ Memorial stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance, where people from all walks of life gather to honor their sacrifice. The national flag flies high across the country, representing the pride, freedom, and blood that shaped the nation. Independence Day is not only a time to remember the past but also a moment to reflect on our responsibilities. It inspires us to uphold unity, justice, and progress, and to contribute to building a stronger and more prosperous Bangladesh. As we celebrate this great day, we renew our commitment to the values of freedom and honor the sacrifices of our heroes. Salute to the martyrs of our independence. Their legacy lives on forever.
Every year on the 26th of March, Bangladesh proudly celebrates its Independence Day—a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and national pride. This historic day marks the beginning of the nation’s struggle for freedom in 1971, when the call for independence united millions of people. The journey to independence was marked by immense sacrifice. Millions of brave martyrs laid down their lives to secure the freedom we cherish today. Their courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit became the foundation of an independent Bangladesh. The Liberation War of 1971 was not just a battle for land, but a fight for identity, culture, and dignity. On this day, the nation pays deep respect to those heroes. The National Martyrs’ Memorial stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance, where people from all walks of life gather to honor their sacrifice. The national flag flies high across the country, representing the pride, freedom, and blood that shaped the nation. Independence Day is not only a time to remember the past but also a moment to reflect on our responsibilities. It inspires us to uphold unity, justice, and progress, and to contribute to building a stronger and more prosperous Bangladesh. As we celebrate this great day, we renew our commitment to the values of freedom and honor the sacrifices of our heroes. Salute to the martyrs of our independence. Their legacy lives on forever.
