Unfettered access to John Lewis was a huge thrill when I moved to Cambridge from the depths of the Essex countryside two years ago. And it still is, so when I heard there was the chance of a sleepover in the store’s new apartment, The Residence, I wasted no time in checking it out.
Showcasing John Lewis’s Autumn ranges, The Residence is up on the 3rd Floor, next to the Espresso Bar. You can browse and get inspiration for your own home while the Concierge will happily signpost you to products and services in store to help you achieve the look you’re after. They’re also planning to run free workshops on choosing bedding, creating a lighting scheme and entertaining at home.
I have to say, The Residence does look pretty comfortable. The dining area features a beautiful collectors’ cabinet designed in collaboration with the V&A while the seating area boasts a jewel coloured velvet chaise end sofa and a framed TV that becomes a picture at the click of a button. And the bed, dressed in velvet and fur throws with plump cushions, looked so inviting that I had to resist the urge to sink into it and take a nap (inappropriate at 10.30 in the morning, I felt!).
The next sleepover, which runs from 6pm to 9am, is on 14 October. Items such as bed linen, pillows, beauty and home fragrance products can be customised as you wish in a try before you buy experience. The delightful Concierge assured me that John Lewis has successfully trialled this event, so my fears about people running amok in soft furnishings during the small hours or setting off an alarm whilst stumbling to the loo at 3am were allayed. The Concierge will serve midnight snacks and a continental breakfast from Waitrose and will remain in store through the night.
To win this sleepover, or a brunch for six people (if a night in the department store doesn’t appeal!) visit the Concierge at The Residence this weekend (23/24 September) and fill in an entry form.
http://www.johnlewis.com/our-shops/cambridge
10 Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DS
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