She Shed Week – Cornish studio

Helen Round designs contemporary textiles and homewares in her garden studio in South East Cornwall.She designed the studio herself and employed local builders to put it together.

Where did you get the inspiration for your studio, Helen?
Designing the studio came from hours of pacing about with bits of string, on what was once a large lawn, trying to imagine how much space I would need and exactly where! Once I had got the dimensions sorted, the design was easy.

I knew I wanted light, and as the positioning for the studio was south facing, full windows seemed the perfect choice.

The tin roof was inspired by a trip to my brother in Oz, where they love to use tin in a variety of buildings. We added cedar cladding to the sides; I love the way it weathers and it even after all these years has a wonderful smell. 

Which detail or fitting gives you the most pleasure?
The full length windows have to be the best thing about it….we look out over the village and fields….it’s an ever changing view I never tire of. Close second has to be the sound of rain on the tin roof!

Is there anything you’d change?
Very simply….I wish I could make it bigger! As the business has grown we have quickly started to run out of space and could do with an extension!

Do you use it for relaxation or just for work?
Primarily for business nowadays, but we do sit on the deck with a glass of wine now and then, especially after a busy day in the garden at weekends.  

What’s the reaction of people who visit your studio or attend one of your workshops?
After they catch their breath, having climbed a number of steps up through the garden,  visitors are amazed by the wonderful views across the fields and down to the water.  On winter days they love the cosiness of the studio with the little wood burner alight. 

Any tips for readers currently planning their own She Shed?
Don’t underestimate how much space you’ll need and hide the keys from your children!

Enjoyed this? Have a look at the exterior of Helen’s Cornish garden studio and find out about the design and build.

In her studio Helen screen prints her hand drawn designs onto linen, from which she makes homewares and accessories. You can see more of her garden studio by booking for one of her creative workshops.