How Margot Robbie's Skin Became Wallpaper in 'Wuthering Heights'

Variety

by jazztangcay

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

"Wuthering Heights" production designer Suzie Davies worked closely with director Emerald Fennell to create a visually striking and emotionally immersive world for the film. Drawing inspiration from the novel's intensity, Davies designed sets that blended brutalist aesthetics with Yorkshire vernacular elements, using materials like wet tiles and modern fabrics in unconventional ways to evoke a sense of discomfort and unease. The production team built Wuthering Heights on a soundstage but incorporated natural elements, such as a rock courtyard and Gothic-inspired architecture, to reflect the novel's moody atmosphere. Davies also introduced practical effects, including rain rigs and drainage systems, to emphasize the film's gritty realism. One of the most notable set pieces was Thrushcross Grange, designed as a luxurious yet oppressive estate that serves as a prison for Cathy. The Skin Room, Cathy's bedroom, featured walls adorned with Margot Robbie's skin texture, creating an unsettling visual metaphor for her emotional and physical state. Davies used high-res images of Robbie's arms and veins, printing them onto fabric to cover the room's padded panels. This eerie detail added layers of symbolism, reflecting Cathy's inner turmoil. Davies also incorporated casts of hands into various set elements, such as ceiling roses and library panels, to weave subtle yet impactful visual narratives throughout the film. The use of Robbie's skin as wallpaper was a bold artistic choice that highlighted Fennell's vision of telling Emily Brontë's story through a contemporary lens. By blending practical effects with symbolic design elements, Davies crafted a visually stunning yet emotionally jarring environment that enhanced the film's themes of obsession and isolation. This innovative approach not only set "Wuthering Heights" apart from other adaptations but also showcased the power of creative collaboration between directors and production designers in modern cinema. For entertainment enthusiasts, this behind-the-scenes insight into the film's meticulous craftsmanship offers a fascinating look at how artistry and technology combine to create unforgettable cinematic experiences.

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Originally published on Variety on 2/14/2026