Soben: Dreaming Big with Handmade Linens in Cambodia
At Cambodia Lifestyle, we love learning about creative ventures that bring a fresh perspective to life in the Kingdom. Recently, we sat down with Marion, the founder of Soben, a Siem Reap-based brand crafting handmade, sustainable bed linens. From a personal need to a growing business, Soben is making waves in Cambodia’s homeware scene. Here’s what Marion had to share about her journey and vision.
Cambodia Lifestyle: Marion, tell us about your project—what inspired you to create Soben, and how has it evolved so far?
Marion: I’m the founder of Soben, a brand dedicated to handmade bed sheets and home linens crafted in our small workshop in Siem Reap. The name “Soben,” meaning “dream” in Khmer, reflects our mission: to bring comfort and serenity to homes with thoughtfully designed bedding.
Soben started as a personal project. When I moved to Phnom Penh in 2022, I couldn’t find bedding that met my standards for comfort, aesthetics, and quality. Frustrated, I bought a sewing machine and began making my own sheets and even some clothes using linen fabric. What started as a small experiment reignited a long-held dream of creating a brand rooted in sustainability, quality, and thoughtful design.
Before launching Soben, I spent a year as a project manager at Melon Rouge, a creative agency in Phnom Penh. That experience helped me better understand the local market and build the confidence to turn my ideas into reality. With my background in digital communication, and marketing, and a passion for creative projects, I felt ready to make the leap into entrepreneurship—with the support of a friend who shared my vision.
Cambodia Lifestyle: How long has Soben been running, and what have been the key moments so far?
Marion: Soben just celebrated its first year! We started prototyping in January 2024 and launched our first collections in April. It’s been an incredible journey so far, and the response has been very encouraging.
Moving to Cambodia provided the perfect opportunity to pursue this dream. The vibrant local textile industry, skilled artisans, and a growing demand for sustainable, thoughtful products made it the right time and place.
Some highlights include the amazing feedback from our customers and the support from retailers in Phnom Penh. Connecting with people who resonate with our work and values has been so rewarding.
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Looking ahead, I’m focused on launching our e-shop to make Soben accessible to more people while staying true to our commitment to local craftsmanship. I also hope to grow a community around the values of slow living and sustainable consumption.
Cambodia Lifestyle: What do you love most about running Soben?
Marion: The best part is combining creativity, craftsmanship, and sustainability in everything we do. Every piece tells a story—from the natural fabrics we source locally to the traditional techniques we use in our workshop.
We focus on quality over quantity, which is why we mainly work to order, depending on fabric availability. Each piece is handmade in our small workshop in Siem Reap, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and fair working conditions.
Linen, our primary material, is sustainable and timeless. It’s not just beautiful—it also has unique properties like regulating temperature, which makes it ideal for Cambodia’s hot climate.
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What makes it even more special is the connection I’ve built with my seamstress, Sreyneang. Her talent and dedication are at the heart of our success. Knowing that our work supports local artisans while reducing textile waste is incredibly fulfilling.
Cambodia Lifestyle: Why should people choose Soben? What makes your products stand out?
Marion: We spend so much of our lives in bed, and quality bedding can make a huge difference in our well-being. Our sheets are made from linen and linen-cotton blends, which are breathable, durable, and incredibly soft—perfect for a good night’s sleep in Cambodia’s warm climate.
Beyond comfort, our bedding transforms bedrooms into inviting, elegant spaces. And because we use deadstock fabrics from Cambodia’s textile industry, every piece is sustainable and unique. By choosing Soben, customers invest in ethical, high-quality products that align with their values.
Cambodia Lifestyle: How does Soben contribute to the local community?
Marion: Our impact extends beyond creating beautiful bedding. By sourcing unused fabrics from Cambodia’s textile industry, we reduce waste and support local suppliers.
Our workshop in Siem Reap provides fair employment to talented Khmer women. By offering fair wages and fostering skill development, we’re helping create economic independence within the community. As Soben grows, I’m excited to expand the team and deepen our positive impact.
For consumers in Cambodia, Soben offers a much-needed alternative to synthetic bedding. Our products are not only climate-appropriate but also thoughtfully designed for those who value sustainability and quality.
Cambodia Lifestyle: Finally, what keeps you inspired to grow Soben here in Cambodia?
Marion: Cambodia holds a very special place in my heart. I moved here by chance, but it quickly became home. The warmth, creativity, and resilience of the people inspire me every day.
Starting Soben has been a challenging but rewarding journey, and I’m grateful for the support of my family, friends, and the local community. Siem Reap, in particular, has been the perfect environment for both personal and professional growth.
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This country gave me the courage to follow my dream, and I want to give back by creating something meaningful here. Through Soben, I hope to continue contributing to Cambodia in a positive way.
Get in touch with Soben in Cambodia:
Social media: Find us on Instagram and Facebook @soben.atelier
Telegram: +855 81 389 639
Website: Coming soon!
Address: Siem Reap, Cambodia – by appointment only
Retailers: Paradise Home, Good Wood, Living Iching Decor, Chomrok
We regularly take part in local markets and events – follow us on social media to stay informed!
Soben is more than a bedding brand; it’s a story of creativity, sustainability, and community. To explore Soben’s handmade linens, follow their journey online or visit their workshop in Siem Reap.
 | Cambodia |
 | https://www.cambodialifestyle.com |
 | +855 9 678 01791 |
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Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
