Sanderson's classic designs are vibrantly reimagined in a new collaboration with John Lewis. From archival prints to heritage stripes to joyful floral blooms, these are timeless patterns with a contemporary flourish. Claire Vallis, Sanderson’s group design director, tells us about this sumptuous new collection co-starring two British design titans...
CV: John Lewis understands what people want in their homes and appreciates Sanderson’s history and our extensive archive, from botanical illustrations to florals and classic stripes. John Lewis, like Sanderson, captures hearts and imaginations across generations, and it’s very exciting to work with them.
CV: There are so many highlights that it's hard to choose, but our beautiful upholstered chair features an iconic print, Newnham, that was inspired by a 19th-century wallpaper in our archive. It still feels fresh and timeless. Our love of stripes also comes through in a statement sofa featuring a valance around the base and in beautiful quilted throws – for this, we’ve upped the scale of the stripe considerably for a contemporary look, but there’s a feminine edge with the frill.
CV: Between the brands, we have more than 300 years of design history. Sanderson and John Lewis both originated in the 1860s, and we wanted to celebrate our similarities and embrace our differences. This collection is the result. Inspired by British design, the overall aesthetic has a beautiful soft look with details in contrast trims, frills and layering – but with a relaxed finish. These designs are meant to be lived in.
CV: …by playing with pattern. The collection includes a fantastic headboard, which would be a wonderful start for styling a bedroom; it’s all about bringing patterns together and creating a focal point, whether it’s a chair or a headboard. You could use the Pamir Garden headboard to create a very cool vintage look using a variety of scales and patterns in the same palette.
CV: The worst thing you can do is replicate someone else’s style. Don’t worry about being on trend; create a forever home with designs you can add to and layer.
Our John Lewis x Sanderson Edit
• From £20 for a hand towel, exclusive to John Lewis & Partners
