EXCLUSIVE: Stannah redefines mobility by collaborating with fashion icon Dame Zandra Rhodes
Fashion and design icon Dame Zandra Rhodes is proving that accessibility is en vogue by starring as the face of the new design-first stairlift from Stannah.
Zandra, 85, is the proud owner of a new design-first stairlift with premium tan leather and black details– the Stannah 158 – and is a big believer that age shouldn’t mean compromising for a medical looking chair when you could enjoy a chic one that “blends beautifully” in the home.
She rewrote the style rulebook, dressing rock stars and royalty, from Freddy Mercury to Diana Princess of Wales. Now, she’s redefining mobility.
Zandra states: “With its design-first, contemporary style, the Stannah 158 challenges outdated perceptions of what a stairlift should look like. Its luxe black and tan leather touches complement modern interiors beautifully.”
Stairlift and home lift brand Stannah’s latest offering blends seamlessly into Zandra’s London home – more specifically, her maximalist stairwell which leads up to a vibrant open-plan living space complete with mannequins draped in her gorgeous garments, bedazzled upcycled mirrors and abundant floral sprays.
Zandra continues: “I’m happily mobile at 85 – still pouring all my time into designing new projects that give me a sense of vitality. A stairlift isn’t a sign of slowing down or ‘needs must’ – owning one from Stannah is my choice. It represents the freedom to plan ahead and ensure my mobility is supported on my terms.”
Zandra adds: “I meticulously choose beautiful designs that reflect my taste and lifestyle for any item in my home – why should a stairlift be any different? The new Stannah 158 is like no other. It looks fabulous, is supremely comfortable and will enable me to continue thriving into the future.
“Age shouldn’t mean compromise – or swapping chic for clinical. Accessibility and style belong together. This is real, refreshing change for the mobility industry courtesy of Stannah.”
Patrick Stannah, Managing Director at Stannah, concludes: “A British icon breaking the mould through design. That’s how I see Zandra – and now us.
“We recognise the stigma attached to stairlift ownership – this is our way of making accessibility aesthetic, so anyone mindful of their mobility reframes it as an empowering lifestyle choice.”
Offering a contemporary, neutral aesthetic the Stannah 158 claims to be the first stairlift where the seat, arms and footrest automatically fold in – and to have a magnetic seatbelt. It is available to buy for customers from January 2026.
