Meet Dharma Door: The Australian Brand Bringing Ethical, Handcrafted Home Decor to Your Space
Kira Simpson
Ever stumble upon a brand that feels like it’s been missing from your life? Dharma Door might just be that discovery.
Blending style and sustainability with effortless charm, this brand offers products that look beautiful and come with a rich, heartfelt story.
If you’re a fan of ethically made treasures, you’re in for a treat.
The origin story
It all started with Shannon and Mick Sheedy, inspired by their travels and the remarkable craftspeople they met along the way. They saw firsthand the incredible artistry and skill of these artisans, many of whom were from some of the most marginalised communities in the world. Determined to make a difference, Shannon and Mick founded Dharma Door.
The duo wanted to create a brand that didn’t just sell products but built bridges between consumers and the artisans who pour their heart and soul into every creation.
Recognising the potential to help more communities, the couple expanded their search for artisans, eventually connecting with a not-for-profit NGO in Bangladesh that supported women through fair wages and training. This partnership became the cornerstone of Dharma Door’s commitment to empowering artisans and preserving traditional crafts.
What started as a passion project has become a beloved brand known for its commitment to fair trade and sustainability. Shannon and Mick’s vision was to offer stunning, high-quality pieces for the home while ensuring that the artisans behind them are treated with the respect and fairness they deserve.
Behind the brand
At the heart of Dharma Door are the artisans. These talented individuals, often women, bring generations of skill and tradition to their work.
In remote Bangladeshi villages, artisans use locally sourced jute, a natural fibre that is both durable and eco-friendly. The jute is dyed using traditional methods, then meticulously woven into beautiful, functional pieces.
What truly sets Dharma Door apart is their impact on the communities they work with. By partnering with artisan groups and NGOs, they help improve lives and livelihoods. These collaborations provide fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for financial independence. Earning a fair wage means they can send their children to school, access healthcare, and invest in their futures.
The ripple effect is profound, with entire communities benefiting from these fair-trade partnerships.
For the home
Each Dharma Door piece is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and rich cultural heritage of the artisans.
The collection features a variety of sustainable home decor items, each uniquely beautiful and functional. From intricately woven baskets and storage solutions to stunning wall hangings and textiles, every item is a work of art, and the pieces speak for themselves
Their handwoven baskets, made from natural jute fibres, are incredibly popular. These stunning, versatile pieces can be used for everything from storing household items to serving as plant holders. I have several in my home, and they’re always a conversation starter when people come to visit.
Dharma Door’s commitment to transparency and storytelling has created a unique bond with their customers. Each product comes with a tag that shares the story of the artisan who made it, forging a personal connection between the buyer and the creator. This thoughtful touch adds a layer of meaning to every purchase, turning everyday items into cherished treasures.
This Byron Bay brand is a prime example of how business can be a force for good. They blend beautiful design with a deep commitment to sustainability and fair trade, offering more than just products—they offer a way to make a positive impact on the world. So, if you’re looking for home decor that’s as meaningful as it is beautiful, Dharma Door is the brand for you.
You can find your own special Dharma Door pieces here.
