‘It still feels surreal’: John Cooper on his hit John Lewis homeware range after Interior Design Masters win

Three months after its successful launch, John Cooper's debut homeware collection with John Lewis continues to make a significant impact, resonating not only in retail spaces but also within his personal home. Cooper, a design and technology teacher from Stockport and the winner of series six of BBC's 'Interior Design Masters,' has integrated several pieces from his collection into his own living space. The collection, characterized by its sleek, mid-century, and monochromatic aesthetic, has been a commercial success since its May debut, with cushions, throws, and bedding identified as top-selling items by John Lewis. Cooper's collaboration with John Lewis began swiftly, just two days after the 'Interior Design Masters' finale. In an interview, he shared insights into his homeware range, design inspirations, and how the collection mirrors his personal style. Among the pieces he has incorporated into his home, Cooper highlights the Thwaite bedspread, which he uses in his guest bedroom. He describes it as a cozy addition, perfect for relaxation, and particularly values its hand-stitched detailing, which he believes imparts a unique sense of craftsmanship. Another prominent item in his home is the Blocky striped armchair, which serves as a focal point in his living room. Cooper appreciates its bold yet understated design, noting its ability to unify the space while remaining a comfortable and functional piece of furniture. His design philosophy for the collection originated from the monochrome office challenge on 'Interior Design Masters.' This particular challenge prompted him to focus on the interplay of shape, form, and material, emphasizing how texture and detail can become central to a design when other elements are pared back. The intentional use of a monochrome palette was crucial to Cooper's vision. He aimed for a design that exuded confidence and versatility, capable of complementing both vibrant, 'dopamine-fueled' interiors and calmer, more neutral environments. The later introduction of a toffee tone was strategic, adding warmth and depth to the collection without overpowering its sculptural elements. A personal touch to the collection is evident in the product names, which are inspired by locations in Yorkshire, Cooper's home region. He explains that naming pieces like 'Thorpe' was a way of embedding elements of his background and the Yorkshire landscape into the designs. He also notes the subtle influence of Yorkshire's dry stone walls, interpreted abstractly within the collection. Cooper defines 'home' as a dynamic space filled with stories and memories, constantly evolving, imperfect, and uniquely personal. He envisions his designs being utilized in various ways: some customers might opt for a complete look using the entire range, while others might select individual pieces to complement existing decor or introduce a contrasting element, creating a sense of visual interest and personalization. The collection has also served as an inspiration for his students, offering them a tangible example of how passion for design can translate into a career and real-world products. Cooper finds immense satisfaction in seeing his students connect their learning to his commercial success, recognizing that his designs, like their own sketches, began as initial concepts. He describes his experience working with John Lewis as brilliant, highlighting the invaluable collaboration with experts across various homeware disciplines, from materials and manufacturing to styling. He expresses genuine pride in the outcome, acknowledging that the realization of his homeware range remains a surreal and fulfilling dream. #JohnCooper #JohnLewis #HomewareCollection #InteriorDesignMasters #MonochromeDesign #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #YorkshireInfluence #ProductLaunch #JohnCooper #JohnLewis #HomewareCollection #InteriorDesignMasters #MonochromeDesign #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #YorkshireInfluence #ProductLaunch

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