Shade & Story

Shade & Story, online made-to-measure blinds and John Lewis partner

Shade & Story is a British retailer specialising in the online sale of made-to-measure blinds and shades. The company presents itself as John Lewis's trusted partner for this type of product and sells a range of customised items with a 10-year quality guarantee. In addition to the online store, the site states that the firm is present in John Lewis stores, where customers can see the range in person.

Blinds and shades catalogue

Shade & Story's catalogue covers a wide variety of light control and privacy solutions. Products available include Venetian blinds, wooden blinds, roller blinds, vertical blinds, blackout blinds, Perfect Fit blinds, Day & Night blinds, no drill blinds, electric blinds, thermal blinds, aluminium blinds, pleated blinds, honeycomb blinds, skylight and roof blinds, and double roller blinds. The company also offers shades and shutter-style blinds.

The selection is organised by colour, with options in white, cream, grey, black, green, blue, pink, brown and red, and by room, including solutions for conservatories, kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms, bathrooms, offices, children's rooms and nurseries. The catalogue can also be filtered by window type, with specific products for doors, bay windows and tilt and turn windows.

Brands and design collections

Shade & Story sells collections inspired by leading names in UK interior and home design. Brands available include John Lewis Designs, John Lewis x Sanderson, Sanderson, Morris & Co., William Morris At Home, Harlequin, Scion, Cath Kidston, Miss Print, Laura Ashley, Orla Kiely and Emily Bond. The company describes these collections as the result of careful design, intended to bring comfort, personality and a refined finish to every space, with styles ranging from classic to contemporary.

Buying process and measuring and installation services

The buying process begins with ordering free samples: customers can request up to 10 samples to assess the quality at home. Once a style has been chosen, the company offers the option of booking a free measuring appointment with a John Lewis partner, or following the online measuring guides to do it yourself. After confirming the order, Shade & Story handles the manufacture of the made-to-measure blinds and arranges installation. For those who prefer to measure and install themselves, the site allows details to be entered online and the order to be placed.

The company also offers a professional measuring and installation service, as well as step-by-step guides for measuring and installing. The site mentions Mismeasure Cover for peace of mind when buying.

Manufacturing and guarantee

Shade & Story states that at least 80% of its range is made in the UK by skilled artisans. The company backs its products with a 10-year guarantee and offers free delivery on orders over £249. For certain products, next-day delivery is available if the order is placed before 12:00 Monday to Friday, with delivery the next working day.

Experience and reviews

The company states that it has more than 40 years of experience in the window coverings sector. At the time of analysis, the site showed an "Excellent" rating based on 48,827 reviews, and noted that the firm has appeared on TV.

Location and contact

Quayside House, Basin Rd S, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN41 1WF · Phone: 0161 524 1188 · Email: shop@shadeandstory.co.uk