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SOTO was originally conceived nearly four years ago as a result of Paul Sugars going to work and live in Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand. He fell in love with the country and its people and now lives with his wife Ae near Doi Suthep mountain. Along with his father, David, based in York, he saw an opportunity to export beautiful products being made by local craftsmen from natural materials, whilst at the same time helping to improve standards of living. Soto’s suppliers have a wide range of backgrounds, from well financed globally aware modern businesses to small start-up companies to village co-operatives&tribal people’s assistance projects. Many of the ancient tribes living in Thailand’s remote mountain regions have been brutally persecuted in countries bordering Thailand, in particular along the Myanmar (formerly Burma) border, and live a precarious, often stateless, existence. One of SOTO’s most valued associations is with Sop Moei Arts, a company founded as a project to generate income and support health care for the Pwo Karen people. Their exceptional traditional weaving skills have been combined with the talent&marketing know-how of top European designers to produce a superb range of exquisite textiles and home decorative items, including hand stitched cushions and table runners, no two of which are identical.
Paul&SOTO make efforts in many directions to actively assist the growth and success of companies and projects which aim to improve the lifestyle and self-sufficiency of the makers of our products. Another priority is to ensure that our suppliers share our concerns about ethical business practices and environmental protection. For example; choosing, wherever possible, natural colouring techniques over chemical, suppliers that look after the long term future of their labour force and hand made processes over mass production.
A major investment is in fine furniture where beautiful beds, dining sets and conservatory furniture are made from a variety of sustainable natural materials. All our teak is re-used and not a product of felling virgin rainforest. Other materials include water hyacinth, mango wood, rattan and bamboo. All large items are made to order and as a result can be adjusted to fit exactly your requirements at no extra charge. Our designers are able to discuss your individual requirements providing you with a bespoke service to meet your exact needs.
This unique combination of local skills and both local and international design has resulted in an unequalled range of exceptionally well-made, affordable and beautiful products for the home and garden, and superb gifts and accessories, many of which are exclusive to SOTO.
Most small items are available immediately from stock.
When you buy any of our fine Environmentally Conscious products, you are helping to improve the lives of a gifted and skilful people. If you would to find out more and discuss your requirements, please phone 01347 878 433 |
