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Claire Girkin Design - Garden Designer in Surrey

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Thoughtfully designed gardens for beautifully renovated homes

If you've invested in transforming your home but the garden still feels unfinished, I can help create an outdoor space that complements the architecture, with beautiful planting and carefully considered spaces to enjoy throughout the year.

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Designed for Renovated Homes

Many of my clients have recently completed a home renovation and are ready to turn their attention outside.

 

While the house has been transformed, the garden often feels disconnected from the investment made indoors.

 

I create gardens that feel connected to the architecture, are a pleasure to spend time in and are beautifully planted, providing interest and views from inside and out throughout the year.

Graduate member of the Society of Garden & Landscape Designers
Member of the Surrey Garden Design Group
Diploma in Garden Design from the English Gardening School
RHS Certicate II in Horticulture

The Services I Offer...

Garden Consultation

For homeowners seeking professional advice, fresh ideas and a clear plan for improving their garden with confidence.

Planting border in Weybridge garden

Border & Bed Redesign

For existing borders that need fresh planting, better structure and renewed interest throughout the changing seasons.

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Planting Design

For new planting schemes and renovated gardens that need a thoughtful planting plan with year round colour and interest.

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Garden Design

For gardens requiring changes to layout, planting and outdoor living spaces that better suit modern family life.

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The house has been renovated but the garden still feels unfinished

Unsure where to start and worried about making costly mistakes

Lack of privacy from neighbouring properties

A garden that no longer suits family life

Struggling to connect the garden to the architecture of the house

Dreaming of a garden filled with beautiful planting & seasonal joy

Wanting beautiful views from the inside as well as outside

Needing a clear plan before approaching landscapers

Common Challenges I Help Solve

What My Clients Say

“Claire has completely transformed what was a messy unusable outdoor space into an oasis of calm that we all love spending time in. We are so happy with the end result.”

Emma, Surbiton Surrey

What My Clients Say

“Claire's design has transformed our lives not just our garden. We now have 3 places to enjoy the view and the garden itself.”

Ben, Godalming Surrey

What My Clients Say

“I was so impressed wth the care and creativity in Claire's designs...”

Ros, Milford Surrey

FAQs

What exactly does a garden designer do?

A garden designer helps transform outdoor spaces by developing ideas, layouts, planting plans and practical solutions tailored to how you want to use your garden. Depending on your project, this may involve anything from redesigning a single border to creating a complete garden masterplan.

Who are your typical clients?

Most of my clients are homeowners in Surrey who have recently renovated their property and want a garden that reflects the quality of their home. Many are keen gardeners or simply love beautiful planting and want a garden that becomes richer and more enjoyable with every passing season.

How much should I expect to invest?

Every project is different. A garden consultation starts from £150, while larger design projects are priced according to the scale and complexity of the work. During our initial conversation I can provide guidance on likely design fees and project budgets.

How long does the process take?

Smaller planting projects can often be completed within a few weeks. Larger garden design projects typically take longer depending on the scale of the design, decision making and implementation programme.

Can I have a design prepared and build it later?

Yes. Many clients commission a design first and implement the work in stages over time. A well prepared design provides a clear plan that can be followed whenever the timing is right.

Do I need to redesign the whole garden?

Not at all. Some clients want a complete redesign, while others simply need help with planting, a particular area of the garden or solving a specific problem.

What makes your approach different?

I specialise in helping homeowners create gardens that feel connected to their homes and lifestyles. My background combines design, horticulture and practical garden knowledge, allowing me to balance aesthetics with long term success and ease of maintenance.

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Real Gardens, Real Transformations

Every garden begins with a challenge.

 

An unused corner, a lack of privacy, a tired planting scheme or a garden that no longer reflects the home beside it.

These projects show how thoughtful garden planning, planting design and carefully considered layouts can transform outdoor spaces into places to relax, entertain and enjoy throughout the year.

Intimate Seating Area surrounded by planting
Surbiton New Build House - Garden design & Planting Design
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Modern Courtyard Garden with Contemporary Raised Beds
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