At Duman Home, every product carries a story—but none more powerful than the story of our founder, Cengiz Duman. It’s a story of survival, reinvention, and an unwavering love for craftsmanship that stretches from the heart of Turkey to the streets of Brooklyn.
A Legacy Rooted in Turkish Craftsmanship
Cengiz grew up in Turkey, surrounded by the beauty and richness of Anatolian textile traditions. As a teenager, he worked in local factories, learning the intricate techniques and deep patience behind Turkish weaving. Those early years instilled in him a lifelong respect for quality, detail, and honest work. It wasn’t just fabric he was learning to shape—it was identity, purpose, and pride.
Then, in the early hours of August 17, 1999, tragedy struck. A catastrophic earthquake—measuring 7.6 in magnitude—devastated northwestern Turkey. Entire towns were reduced to rubble, and over 17,000 lives were lost. The quake shattered not just buildings, but futures. Cengiz's life, like so many others, was forever changed.
A New Beginning in New York
With just $300 in his pocket and no clear roadmap ahead, Cengiz made the bold decision to leave everything behind and move to New York City. Alone in a new country, he juggled three jobs just to stay afloat—working morning to night, hustling for every opportunity. But survival wasn’t his only goal; he was building a future.
While working nonstop, he enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), determined to refine his knowledge and push himself further. It was during this time that he began managing a flagship home goods store on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. There, he deepened his understanding of American retail, learning exactly what customers valued in their homes: timeless design, comfort, and quality that endures.
Duman Home Is Born
In 2012, after years of relentless effort, Cengiz brought his vision to life by opening Duman Home in the heart of Cobble Hill, Brooklyn. His mission was clear: to share the beauty and craftsmanship of Turkish textiles with a New York audience—and to curate a home goods collection that reflected integrity, elegance, and global artistry.
Duman Home quickly became a neighborhood staple, known for its premium Turkish cotton towels, breathable bedding, and thoughtfully selected accents that bring warmth and intention into every home. But beyond the products, it was the philosophy of the brand that resonated most.
More Than a Store—A Testament to Resilience
What makes Duman Home truly special isn’t just the softness of our towels or the smoothness of our sheets. It’s the story behind them. It’s the belief that beauty and quality should be accessible. It’s the idea that even after great loss, something meaningful can be built—with patience, care, and heart.
“Duman Home is proof that honest work, high standards, and love for design can create something lasting,” Cengiz often says. “It’s not just about making beautiful things—it’s about building something that matters.”
Every item we offer is a reflection of that belief—a tribute to heritage, to resilience, and to the homes we create with love.
Visit us at our Cobble Hill, Brooklyn store!