Home decorating, interior design ideas, garden design - Homes and Gardens

There are countless reasons why Homes & Gardens readers might have voted for John Lewis as design Retailer of the Year. Perhaps it was the astounding scope of what the store has to offer, from an extensive range of furnishing fabrics, bedlinen and tableware to cutting-edge furniture, appliances and technology – and everything in between. Or it could be the combination of John Lewis's own-label items and well-known brands. Maybe readers are attracted by unparalleled levels of service from well-informed staff and bespoke services, such as upholstery and curtain-making. Or is it the number of stores – 27 in all – with the opening of a further seven planned over the next five years, as well as an informative, easy-to-use website that makes shopping such a pleasure?

The attraction of the first department store of the 19th century was that it was possible to find, under one roof, the same range and expertise that you would at specialist retailers. In the 21st century, as specialists become an increasingly rare breed on the high street, John Lewis's emphasis on range, expertise and quality make it a more seductive prospect than ever.

Yet its approach to retailing is more than purely functional: many existing stores have been refurbished (most recently the flagship on Oxford Street) bringing new energy to the shopping experience. Also crucial is that John Lewis has succeeded in being fashionable without being swayed by fashion. So while it continues to attract new generations of consumers, it also remains true to its reputation for service and integrity.