Invest in walls that soothe: The psychology of colour with Claire Vallis

We sat down with Claire Vallis, Creative Director of the iconic British brand Sanderson, to talk about how colour and pattern can do more than decorate; they can truly enhance your wellbeing. With a rich heritage rooted in craftsmanship and a deep connection to nature, Sanderson has long believed in the power of design to elevate everyday life. Claire shares how colour psychology, timeless motifs and a thoughtful approach to pattern can help create a more nurturing and joyful home.

Sanderson is known for its rich heritage: how do you balance staying true to your history while evolving designs to fit modern lifestyles?

Part of Sanderson’s charm is its enduring beauty. Whether brought to life from our archive or created new in our design studio, these designs have an enduring quality that stands the test of time. For contemporary homes, we always think about how these patterns remain relevant and often update them through colour palettes while always staying true to that Sanderson design language that we know is so loved.

How do you believe the colour of our walls can influence our mood and overall sense of wellbeing?

We know that colour significantly impacts our wellbeing and that specific colours speak to individuals. While it isn’t a prescribed method to influence mood and overall wellbeing, I think it’s vital that when picking colour and pattern, you are guided by what speaks to you. Do you feel comforted and cocooned by dark, moodier tones, or do you crave a light airiness in your home? Living with the colours you are drawn to is important for creating personal spaces.

What role does colour psychology play in the design and curation of your wallpaper collections?

While we’re not psychologists, our designers are very in tune with the emotional responses to colour and pattern and the knowledge that wallpaper can be incredibly impactful and meaningful at home. When creating a new collection, as designers, we are driven by what inspires us and the origins of this inspiration. In Highgrove by Sanderson, our most recent collection in partnership with Highgrove and The King’s Foundation, the inspiration was deeply rooted in the gardens and the spirit of working in harmony with nature. This starting point filled us with passion as we created a story of history and nature combined and elevated it through a thoughtful palette of colour. The ambition of this collection is to bring people closer to nature through their interiors and, in doing so, create a sense of harmony at home.

How does nature influence the palettes and patterns used in your wallpapers? Is there an element of bringing the outdoors in when it comes to your design process?

Since its founding in 1860, Sanderson has been influenced by the beauty of nature and the English countryside. Whether it’s a classic floral, a luscious botanical, or a refined landscape, nature inspires us every day. The palettes are indicative of the natural beauty of these inspirations and reflect the details, even down to the season and time of day that nature is observed. Again, with Highgrove by Sanderson as an example, we saw the gardens in winter and again in spring, and witnessed, from the earth, these flowers and plants spring to life in vibrant colour, which was incredible. Our palettes reflect a balance of this natural beauty and saturation.

Are there particular colours or motifs that you consider timeless for promoting serenity and joy within the home?

Green is endlessly timeless and so calming. That connection to nature’s palette can instantly make you feel joy and serenity. Its shades and tones are also so varied. From sage to artichoke, forest, lichen, and fern, our green palette is inspired by nature and works with every natural light for the ultimate serene experience.