Diploma in Garden Design 2023 - 2023

Sonia Kamel

Garden Designer

What were you doing before studying, and why did you decide to study here?
Before KLC, I ran my own interiors business. I loved working with colours, textures, and layouts, but I always felt drawn to designing Gardens.  KLC stood out because it covered all the elements you need to become a Garden Designer within a year —it felt like the perfect place to make that transition.

How do you think studying at KLC School of Design prepared you for what you do now?
The course was incredibly well curated and industry focused. It didn’t just teach me about design; it showed me how to work with real clients and real gardens.  We had five projects throughout the year that increasingly became more complex. There were some big learning curves, but it was a great foundation that covered everything I needed to start my career with confidence.

Can you identify some of the highlights and challenges of your time with us?
Winning the RHS competition and supplying planting for the Hampton Court Flower Show 2023 was a real high point. It gave me a huge boost of confidence. On the flip side, juggling coursework with raising two young children was definitely tough, but it taught me how to manage my time better—and how to stay determined!

How has your career evolved since graduating?
After graduating, I joined a garden design studio in Barnes, and it’s been such a great experience. I’ve had a busy year working on a variety of projects, and I feel like I’m constantly learning and growing.

What projects are you currently working on?
Right now, I’m designing four residential gardens in London. Each one is different, and I love figuring out how to make each space work for the people who live there.

What do you consider your biggest achievement to date?
Being selected for the Chelsea Flower Show 2025 to create a Balcony Garden is definitely my proudest moment so far. It’s a huge milestone, and while I’m a bit nervous, I’m also really excited about the opportunity. 

Do you have any tips for recent graduates?
Take it one step at a time and trust what you’ve learned—it really does prepare you for the real world. Don’t be afraid to say yes to new opportunities, even if they seem daunting. Every project is a chance to grow.