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.
[ INSPIRATION ]
Trends & Lifestyle
When working with a smaller patio or garden , it can be tricky to make the most of the space you’ve got. We’ve compiled our top patio ideas for small gardens to help you create a chic and practical outdoor space.
Create a shaded area
Perfectly practical and the ideal way to incorporate texture into your space, adding a shaded area is great for privacy and creates a cooler area for hosting alfresco meals. Try adding a pergola, for more of a statement piece, or simply a parasol for a more classic feel. Both will centre your garden table and make it the focal point of your space.
Make a bold statement with accessories
Not only a bold décor piece, but also perfect for patios with limited sunlight, mirrors can be used create the illusion of a larger space and add extra dimension. For enclosed patios, large garden mirrors are the ideal choice and can be placed in corners to really open up the space.
An arch shaped mirror creates and elegant and sophisticated feel. For a splash of added colour, outdoor rugs are a great addition to your patio. They can be used to tie together seating areas and help to soften noise in a small space, brining a calm, cohesive feel to your patio.
Illuminate your small patio space with lighting
Lighting is an innovative way to create spotlight areas in your garden and break up the space, perfect for those long summer evenings. Portable table lamps are a versatile form of outdoor lighting as they can be moved around the space to suit your needs day to day.
Wall lights can be a space saving option for outdoor lighting and there are plenty of decorative and stylish options that can elevate the look of your patio. Placement is crucial to maximise space , having lighting at varying heights can create more dimension in a smaller space.
Choose compact patio furniture
Choosing patio furniture that is compact can maximise a smaller patio, whilst still allowing it to remain functional and stylish. Choose collapsible dining sets or foldable lounge chairs that can be easily stored away when not in use to make the most of your space.
Compact benches or stools that can be tucked under dining tables are also another great space-saving option.
Go bold with colour schemes
Don’t be afraid to go for a bold colour scheme in a small space, choosing sharp colours can actually visually expand the space when done in the right way. Try creating a main focal point that draws the eye, such as a colourful painted feature wall or colourful statement furniture piece. It’s important to balance bold colours with softer, neutral tones so as not to overwhelm the space.
Choose light neutral slabs or tiles
Choosing the right slabs or tiles for your small patio is key to making it feel spacious. Light or neutral coloured patio slabs will create an airy feel and reflect the light, giving the illusion of a larger space. Neutral coloured patio slabs are extremely versatile and create the perfect base to tie in nicely with all colour schemes.
Choose functional furniture with multi-purpose
Choosing multi-functional patio furniture is great for small gardens to maximise every part of your space. Garden side tables with storage included are an ideal multi-functional furniture piece to add.
Corner seating can save patio space
When working with a small patio, its important to use the space in every corner and crevice. Corner seating can save patio space and allows the patio to feel larger. Try an outdoor corner sofa or creating a seating nook in one corner using lounge chairs for a more relaxed feel.
Accessorise with greenery
Embrace nature whilst adding texture and depth to your small garden by adding a selection of different greenery and plants. Hanging baskets can save patio space and allow you to incorporate lots of different plants. Alternatively, the vertical gardening trend is a perfect way to add plants in a small space as it only takes up a wall or fence panel and creates a beautiful textured statement piece. Try adding climbing plants that grow upwards instead of out.
Choose a garden theme
Choosing a theme that aligns with your style and tastes for your garden can work well even with a smaller space. A theme will create a cohesive design throughout your garden. Experiment with themes such as rustic, modern or contemporary style to create a space that suits your style.
Curious about using outdoor lighting? Explore our complete guide to illuminating your garden.
We asked our team what Heal’s at Home means to them and they didn’t disappoint. Step behind the scenes to discover which designs our buyers, CEO and epic marketers have in their homes.
Kris, Senior Buyer
Balmoral Sofa
I love my Balmoral Sofa. It’s eye catching and a perfect spot to cosy up in. There’s always an argument on who gets to sit on the sofa.... sadly my daughter always wins! When it’s time to reflect after a crazy day, I also like to burn my Heal’s scented candles.
Molly, Content
Alexander Girard's Love Mug
Alexander Girard is one of my favourite designers and I’d happily fill my home with his designs. As a more affordable compromise I have a few of his accessories and patterns scattered throughout. I always drink my morning cuppa in the ‘Love’ Mug from Vitra!
Claire, Lighting Buyer
Column Table Lamp in Green
This gorgeous, dimmable Column Table Lamp sits in the corner of my living room and gives a lovely warm glow in the evening.
Ruth, Head of Marketing
Paul Smith Anglepoise Lamp
I love the Paul Smith edition of the iconic Anglepoise, it lends another dimension to the lamp. I have mine positioned on a shelf to highlight by favourite accessories, books and prints.
Hamish, CEO
Fawn Sideboard
My Fawn Sideboard is my favourite Heal's piece. Not only does it look stylish and beautiful with its soft curves, but it also perfectly houses my treasured record collection!
Emily, Buyer
Urban Apothecary Candle
Urban Apothecary scents are perfect now we’re spending more time at home. The vessel itself is stylish so it looks good even when it’s not lit, and the fresh scent of Green Lavender fills the room.
Kris, Senior Buyer
Ziggy Lounge Chair
This Ziggy accent chair is one of my favourite pieces in the house. It’s the perfect place to read a book, contemplate or simply look out onto the garden. So soft and tactile, it sparks so much attention with every guest we have.
Have you got a favourite design from Heal's at home? Share it on Instagram using the hashtag #HealsHome
Have lots of clothes but can’t find what to wear? That could be because your wardrobe needs organising – from clearing out pieces you don’t wear to categorising what you do – to ensure a harmonious wardrobe that works hard for you and your lifestyle.
But if you’re overwhelmed by the thought of decluttering, fear not. Our methodical process provides the best way to organise your wardrobe, making it intuitive and enjoyable.
Set aside time
There’s no denying that organising your wardrobe takes energy and time, so schedule a specific time slot for tackling the task, whether that’s an evening when you’d usually be watching television, or during the weekend (a Sunday morning when everyone else in the house is asleep, for example?).
Remember, you don’t need to do it all in one hit, either: you could break it down into 30-minute chunks each and every evening to make it feel less daunting.
Make a plan
Next, think about what your dream wardrobe looks like, in terms of both how it looks and functions. Will it be colour-coded? And is there a way of rotating outfits so you don’t end up wearing the same thing every week?
Moodboarding exactly what you want out of the process will help you stay focused as you work through it – a tool like Pinterest is a great source of inspiration.
Organising Your Wardrobe in 9 Steps
Empty your wardrobe
First thing is first: a wardrobe clear-out. Remove everything so you can give all the surfaces a good clean.
Assess your space
Next, see exactly what storage you have in terms of drawers, hanging rails and divan beds to understand if you have enough space for accommodating your clothes.
Think about storage options
If you don’t, consider investing in new storage to suit your taste and space, whether a spacious wardrobe or a compact chest of drawers. Our collection of luxury furniture, whether Heal’s creations or curated designers, brings together style and storage to offer timeless designs.
Try everything on
As a rule of thumb, if you haven’t worn something in over a year, then it’s time to give it away. Try everything on to check you’re happy with how pieces fit and that they’re still in good condition. Only keep items you can’t live without to help create an edited capsule wardrobe.
Make sure you’ve got a flattering floor mirror that will show your outfits at full length before you start. We rather like the Brunel with clever hanging space incorporated into its design or the simplicity of our Oxbow with its boutique-inspired aesthetic.
Sort your clothes
Now for the fun bit: sorting clothes by categorising them in three distinct piles – to sell, to think about or to give away. You could add a fourth pile in pieces you might want to customise. Perhaps they need repairing or modernising, for example. But how do you decide what clothes to keep?
In short, only keep those that make you look and feel great. You could always enlist the help of a trusted friend to get a second opinion and make the process that bit more fun. Why not make an evening of it?
Get rid of unwanted clothes
There are a number of ways of getting rid of clothes you no longer want. Donate them to your local charity shop; or deposit them in a clothing bank (a quick search online will reveal ones close to where you live). Alternatively, you could always offer them to friends or family.
Group clothes by category
With an edit complete, it’s time to categorise what you’re keeping, either by colour, type or season. There’s nothing more pleasing than a closet sorted by shades from darks to lights, jumpers piled high together and trousers hung uniformly in a row, or a complete summer collection separated from winter wear.
Why not invest in a divan bed with storage beneath? Your wardrobe can display clothing for the current season while your bed can house pieces for the next.
Maintain organisation
Arguably, the hardest bit about organising your wardrobe is keeping it that way once you’ve done it. The easiest way of doing this is making sure everything is in order little and often – when you put laundry away, for example – or operating a ‘one in, one out’ policy: for every new item you purchase, an old one needs to go.
Trust us: getting dressed in the morning and planning your outfits will be so much easier.
Store your clothes correctly
Remember, one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to how you store different items of clothing. Jumpers and t-shirts should be folded and stored in drawers or on shelves, for example, while trousers and shirts are best hung on rails. If you’re out of space, why not invest in a neat clothes hanging rail to catch the overspill?
Browse and buy functional but fabulous storage solutions to help keep your clothing organised.
From eating healthily to drinking less and exercising regularly, we’re full of good intentions in January, but most fail miserably by the middle of the month (if not before). So why not ring the changes this New Year with interior design resolutions that are worth keeping?
From investing in quality design with enduring pieces that can be passed down from generation to generation, to being more instinctive and creative in how you decorate, the smallest updates can make the biggest difference. Here are a handful of ideas to get 2024 off to a beautiful start.
Upgrade your bedding
They say you should invest in two things: a good bed and good shoes, because if you’re not in one, you’re in the other. So, it makes sense to invest in quality bed linen to ensure quality sleep throughout the year. Casual but chic, our washed linen is carefully woven in Portugal using a sustainable process that requires fewer dyes and less water than cotton, while the weighty fabric keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer.
It’s irresistibly soft and tactile, too. But don’t stop there: layer with one of our luxurious velvet quilts – made from 100% cotton velvet for noticeable plushness – in cool midnight blue or rich emerald green. It’ll be like bedding down in a boutique hotel 365 days a year.
Collect quality crockery
Gone are the days when one set of crockery suits all gatherings and seasons. Start a collection so you have just the right style to hand at your next soirée.
The Nordic Sea set by Broste Copenhagen is perfect for cosy winter get-togethers, with a hand-glazed finish and a grey-blue tone, while our Heal’s + L.F. Markey set features vibrant colours that make it spot-on for summer entertaining.
Meanwhile, the Pearl White collection from Costa Nova – comprising everything from bowls to plates – serves up timeless style for formal entertaining.
Top tip: why not invest in a stylish sideboard to house your new collection? The Lars, Verona or Amira combine form and function to spectacular effect.
Start an art collection
Have you been staring at a blank space in the hallway since last year? Curate a gallery wall for something to admire the moment you step through the door. It might sound obvious, but start by collecting what you love, whether that’s the artist, theme or medium. Visit galleries to develop your knowledge and browse online to discover your taste.
Heal’s is home to an exclusive collection of modern art, from Paper Collective to King & McGaw, that offers plenty of food for thought. Giving your collection a focus is always a good idea – perhaps a specific subject? – to bring separate pieces together. Above all, have fun – it’s a pleasure, not a chore.
Style more sustainably
Is there a better feeling than buying something you know has been ethically made from superior materials? We certainly don’t think so, which is why we’re committed to a sustainable approach to design, whether it’s crafting products that last – our solid wood sofa frames come with a lifetime guarantee – or focusing on natural or recycled materials (we grow a proportion of the organic cotton used in our towels, bed linen and mattresses, and use only natural fibres to fill our Soil Association-certified Organic mattress).
Surround yourself with beautiful things that don’t just make you feel good, but do good. You can read more about our commitments for change – and how we continue to assess and improve how we operate within the four key areas of materials, craft, environment and community – as part of Heal’s Cares.
Prioritise ‘you time’
In an increasingly busy world, ‘you time’ has been deprioritised in favour of work and social commitments, but carving out space to unwind is essential for our mental health and physical wellbeing. Think about what you do to relax – whether it’s a spot of yoga, curling up with a good book or simply indulging in your favourite hobby – and create the space to accommodate the activity.
Our Heal’s + L.F. Markey hand-tufted rug – featuring block colours and abstract patterns – can quickly and easily zone a corner for meditation; with a classic Mid-Century shape, the Eames lounge chair creates an indulgent spot for catching-up on the latest bestseller; and our Henley Desk provides a platform for writing, drawing or crafting.
Invest in pieces that change how you live this year.
Christmas is coming, and with it the perfect excuse to throw open the doors to entertain family and friends, whether drinks and nibbles in the big-build up, a full-on feast for the main event itself or a glittering affair on New Year’s Eve.
But while gathering nearest and dearest in your home can be a joyful and rewarding experience, there’s no denying it can also be stressful, what with the decorating, cooking and hosting to be done.
But fear not, as we’ve compiled everything you need to make it go without a hitch in one convenient place, from tablescaping inspiration to Christmas Day hosting ideas and menu-planning, plus general tips and tricks. This year, you’ll be confident in welcoming one and all (just don’t forget to upgrade your dining table – a blank canvas for your creativity).
Why host a dinner party at home?
Despite the effort it takes to throw a dinner party, hosting at home can sometimes be more economical than going out or ordering in, while it gives you a chance to show off your beautiful tablescape and impeccable style.
Better still, there’s no need for a taxi at the end of the night for the host – meaning you can climb the stairs and be in bed the minute everyone has left.
Hosting your Christmas dinner party
The golden rule for any refined gathering? Plan ahead. And when you think you’ve done all the planning you can, plan some more. We’re not just talking about setting a budget – although that’s the first logical step – but setting a date and time that gives everyone plenty of warning to diarise, then sorting a guestlist by circulating (preferably printed) invites to those you want around the table.
Next, think about a theme – which, in turn, can inspire the food and drink – and start buying decorations and tableware so you’re not scrabbling around at the last minute. Even little things, like dressing the table or chopping the veg the night before, can help when it comes to hosting. Why not go one step further and select dishes you can make beforehand and freeze to seal in flavour and texture?
Then you only need to defrost, finish cooking and serve when guests arrive. Likewise, curate a playlist the weekend before your soirée over a glass of wine – it’s fun and will save time and faff when it comes to finding the right vibe on the night.
Creative Christmas dinner party theme ideas
You absolutely don’t need a theme to throw a dinner party, but Christmas is all about having a bit of fun, so it certainly won’t go amiss. There’s plenty of inspiration for Christmas dinner theme ideas on the likes of Pinterest, but the festive season lends itself naturally to concepts like a winter wonderland – think twinkling silvers, faux snow, handcrafted animals and icy blues – or ‘all that glitters’ with gold decorations at every turn.
Otherwise, you could go traditional – greens and reds are making a comeback as we seek comfort and joy in nostalgia – or be creative: the underwater aesthetic is making waves with pearlescent finishes, mermaid motifs and shell designs (this lobster-inspired dec is just the thing). The world really is your oyster, so think big and get creative.
Games and entertainment at your Christmas dinner party
It wouldn’t feel festive without a family game or two after dinner is done, would it? Old-school favourites such as charades and quizzes always go down a storm, as do classics like Scrabble and Pictionary, otherwise the collection of beautifully-designed games by Printworks are sure-fire winners – from Backgammon and Tumbling Tower to Yatzy and Four in a Row.
If all else fails, why not dust off the karaoke machine? It’s Christmas, after all. A simple Google will reveal a raft of Christmas dinner party game ideas, if you’re still stuck.
Festive Christmas dinner party décor
When it comes to setting the scene, Christmas decorations can add twinkle and sparkle, whether it’s in candles, fairylights, ornaments or flowers. Line pillar candles of varying heights down the length of the table or cluster together in a collection in the centre (overhead lighting should be dialled down or switched off); wind battery-operated fairylights around the back of dining chairs; and fill vases with groups of ornaments and use unique ones to add personality to each place setting.
Menu ideas for large Christmas gatherings
With the theme, entertainment and table sorted, it’s time to think about the type of food and format you serve up, which should initially be planned around the number of guests you have in attendance. For a big group, for example, a generous buffet that lends itself to everyone helping themselves is best.
Don’t be quick to judge – the buffet is back in a big way and is being elevated for contemporary entertaining by even the most respected party-planners. Think premium cheeses, pickles and condiments; butter boards topped with spices and herbs; wafer-thin slices of charcuterie; luxurious lobster rolls; bite-sized desserts and old-school trifles (yes, really); DIY spritz stations; and posh punch bowls. For this retro presentation style, consider upgrading your serveware with things like the Tundra Sharing Platter by Musango, our Sintra Salad Bowl and the Rotary Tray from Vitra.
For a tighter group – eight, say – a sit-down affair might be more appropriate with a centrepiece or sharing board placed in the centre of the table for everyone to dig in and help themselves. Forgo the traditional turkey in favour of something more fashionable like pulled pork or cauliflower wellington as a guaranteed conversation-starter.
Why not present on something pretty like the Tala Ceramic Platter by ferm LIVING? For groups or six or four, you may want to dish up individual plates in the kitchen before presenting them at the table, and include a starter, main and dessert before retiring to the living room for cheese and digestifs. Our box-sets – from the grey-blue tones of Nordic Sea to our colourful collaboration with LF Markey – make refreshing your crockery for Christmas easy.
As the big day itself can be quite the undertaking, we recommend keeping any entertaining you’re doing on Christmas Eve low-key, so stick to a single course for a small group or just two – oysters and Champagne is an always elegant pairing. These saucers from The Vintage List are timeless. However many you’re catering for, always remember to check dietary requirements beforehand, meaning there are no surprises when it comes to plant-based or gluten-free guests.
Don’t overlook drinks, either: while you’ll have plenty of beer, wine and spirits to hand, ensure you’ve got smart softs for teetotallers or drivers, too. Sober-curiosity – whereby people are consciously choosing to drink or abstain on different occasions – is becoming increasingly popular.
Remember, whoever you’re hosting and however you’re hosting them, it’s all about the company. So long as the conversation (and wine) is flowing, everyone will leave with a smile on their face.
Get inspired by more Christmas dinner party ideas.
Discover more
-
Behind The Design
-
At Heal's
-
Tips & Advice
