A Chat with Helen Skelton: The Countryside Collection
Our designers recently sat down with Helen Skelton to talk about her new collection. It was a chance to get an insight into the personal stories and inspiration behind the designs she hand-picked and how her love for the countryside has been woven into every print.
1. Your collection is so deeply inspired by the British countryside. Can you tell us about a specific memory or a favourite place—be it a country estate or a coastal walk—that truly sparked an idea for choosing one of these beautiful designs?
When we were kids we spent a lot of time playing by the river. My mum would walk with us across the fields with a picnic in our wellies and we would just play and paddle and build dams and rafts. We did it so often we knew the river banks and landscape like the back of our hands. I still walk by that river and always do it with a smile.
2. Your collection features such a warm and inviting colour palette. What are your top tips for using these shades to create a cosy, stylish interior? Is there a particular colour combination you think works best for bringing that natural, British countryside feel into a home?
I think our countryside is so brilliantly varied because it is so well cared for there is no set colour palette . At different times of year there are different shades and colours depending on the light but for me it will always be about greens, pinks and lilacs. I am lucky enough to know looking at greenery makes me happy so most of my rooms have lots of green.
3. For you, what's the most magical thing about bringing the colours and spirit of the outdoors into your home?
I am happier outside. I have always known that so for me it's always been important to be aware of the seasons, the time of day and if possible the horizon. I think being plugged into the wider world and what’s happening outside is humbling and stops you worrying about things because mother nature is a constant reminder that we are not in control of as much as we would like.
4. We're seeing a big trend towards creating calming, natural spaces. How does your collection help people achieve that sense of peace and tranquillity in their own homes?
I hope people feel calm and relaxed. That, to me, is what a home should be. A space to feel cocooned and safe. I hope the colours are calming. The stronger rooms should feel like a safe space where you can sit and breathe out. I think spaces that include a nod to nature are immediately relaxing because they make you think about things that go at their own pace. There are elements that make you aware of nature and the wider world which again, hopefully make you think about something else. Something bigger than you.
5. If you had to pick a favourite from the collection, almost like a favourite walk in the country, which design would it be and why does it resonate so much with you?
I love secret squirrel. It feels magical and cute. Entertaining and calm. It draws you in and surprises you because from afar it does not feel like a squirrel then up close it does.
6. For someone who loves the idea of this countryside look but feels a little overwhelmed by decorating, what's your top, easy-to-apply tip for getting started?
Start small. A lamp. A vase with flowers in. Some pressed flowers in a frame or even framed sample of wallpaper for your walls. Dip your toe and remember it can be changed.
7. What's your favourite way to style a room with this collection? Do you have any go-to pieces of furniture or accessories that you think pair perfectly with your designs?
I have two ancient wicker baskets that I have dragged from house to house in my many many house moves. They are starting to fall apart but I love them. They have been toy boxes, bedside tables, coffee tables and blanket stores. I think they give country vibes and hold many happy memories for me.
8. Your personal style fits so beautifully with the Lucie Annabel brand. What was it about the designs—the hand-painted look, the fact they're made here in the UK—that made you feel it was the right fit to bring your vision to life?
I have been hanging lucie annabel papers for a long time. My heart belongs in a field and I think that is true of this brand.