Why We Chose Sheffield As Our Home

Sheffield has a rhythm you notice once you live here. A mix of creativity, industry and green space that makes it feel alive but not overwhelming. It’s a city that's cool without trying too hard, busy without feeling overwhelming, where independent businesses thrive, communities connect and the countryside is never far away.

For us, Sheffield isn't just where Sabi & Soul is based. It's become part of who we are.

A city that feels like home

We've lived here long enough to get to know the city beyond the obvious spots. The parks, the independent cafés, the quiet streets tucked away behind the main roads... it's a place that's easy to settle into.

There's a real sense of community here, and that's something we didn't want to take for granted.

Creativity is everywhere

One of the things we love most about Sheffield is how creative it is.

Whether it's galleries, murals, live music or tiny independent studios, there's always someone making something. It doesn't feel competitive either. People genuinely want to see each other do well, and we've met so many artists, designers and makers who share that same mindset.

Being surrounded by people who care about craft, creativity and making things properly is a pretty inspiring place to be.

Independent businesses actually matter here

Sheffield has a brilliant independent scene, and that's a huge part of why we wanted to build Sabi & Soul here.

Kelham Island especially has become a bit of a home for us. There are markets, pop-ups and events happening throughout the year that give small businesses a chance to meet people face to face rather than just through a screen.

We've also been lucky enough to meet loads of other local makers along the way. Whether it's sharing a market, renting a rail in a makers' shop or just chatting over a coffee, it never really feels like you're doing it alone.

A city that brings people together

What stands out most isn't just the businesses, it's the people.

There are community events happening all over the city that bring neighbours, creatives and local businesses together. It gives Sheffield a feeling that's difficult to put into words, but it's something you notice when you live here.

It's a city that feels welcoming.

Nature is never far away

One of our favourite things about Sheffield is how green it is.

Tree-lined streets, parks dotted around the city, rivers winding through neighbourhoods... even on an ordinary walk you can find a quiet spot to slow down for a bit.

Every spring the cherry blossom appears across the city too, which always makes us smile. As a brand that's inspired by Japanese philosophy and design, it feels like a lovely little reminder that beauty often shows up in the simplest moments.

The Peak District on our doorstep

And when we need a proper reset, the Peak District is less than an hour away.

Whether it's a hike, a run or just getting some fresh air, being able to disappear into the countryside so easily is something we'll never get bored of.

Some of our best conversations and ideas have started on a walk.

A city built on making things

Sheffield has always been a city of makers.

Its industrial history is everywhere you look, from old workshops to the stories behind the people who built them. There's something about that history of craftsmanship that really resonates with us.

We might be hand printing clothing instead of forging steel, but the mindset isn't all that different. Taking your time, paying attention to the details and making something you're proud of never really goes out of fashion.

Why Sheffield?

At the end of the day, Sheffield just feels like us. It's creative, welcoming, full of independent businesses and surrounded by nature. It's somewhere we've built friendships, met incredible people and grown Sabi & Soul from an idea into something real.

We couldn't think of a better place to call home.