spotlight on

rob sumner
soak founder & product architect

SO, SOAK – WHERE DID THE NAME COME FROM?

sOak is a pretty literal play on words but it sums up the core of our business. It’s short, punchy and memorable.
We like that sOak could be the name of a bar or restaurant. It helps connect us with our clients

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO FORM SOAK?

I had a burning desire to work in a creative and practical role.

HOW IS BUSINESS DOING?

We are moving from strength to strength as our customer base grows due to the quality of the service we offer. Our unique designs and ‘world first ideas’ are having a very positive impact on our growth.

WHAT INDUSTRIES DO YOU WORK WITH?

We work primarily work with bars and restaurants, supplying a unique design and manufacture service. We also work in the car industry for a number of high profile manufacturers

CAN YOU DROP ANY NAMES?

Our customers include Diageo, Manchester House, The Alchemist, Aiden Byrne, Fluid Movement, Oblix, Zuma Restaurants and The Artesian Bar.

We also work on individual commissions and have included a number of high profile clients on Savile Row and elsewhere.

HAVE YOU ALWAYS LOVED WORKING WITH WOOD?

Working with and understanding wood is a passion. From school it has been something I have loved. It continues to this day.

SINCE STARTING SOAK WHERE HAS BUSINESS TAKEN YOU?

Our work is now all around the globe and can be found in London, Rome, Hong Kong, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Miami, New York, Las Vegas...

WHAT WAS THE FIRST PIECE YOU SOLD?

The first real commission was to design and build a bespoke one off Cheese Trolley for a famous chef.

WHERE DO YOU DRAW YOUR INSPIRATION FROM?

I never trawl the web or seek inspiration from others, I find this really counterproductive. My designs come from speaking to the customer first and spending some time in the space, discussing ideas then moving towards drawings to ensure that we get the most out of the concept. We are able to use a host of different materials to achieve a practical, unique and beautiful product.

WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?

My main passion is achieving customer satisfaction, it may sound like a cliche but this statement is not simply a nice thing to say - it’s the truth. When the client is speechless and their customers post amazing comments... that right there is my passion.

WHAT DOES YOUR JOB MEAN TO YOU?

It means everything.