Ben Clifford

I came to garden design through working as a private gardener during lockdown, where I grew more and more interested in how the spaces in which I was working were put together, and how they reflect the people who use them. I am passionate about playing a role in the creation of beautiful, climate-adaptive outdoor spaces which strengthen biodiversity and nurture those who enjoy them. 

I am particularly sensitive to the restorative effect that a mindful connection to the rest of the natural world has on us human beings. I first observed this as a teenager during my mother’s long illness; how her relationship to the garden grew and how this influenced her artistic practice and gave her purpose. This has informed my work through the course, in relating to a client’s wants and needs, from our first small residential garden to the 1000 students at Priory school. I have found it so interesting and rewarding to work on this varied portfolio of briefs and would like to continue in both the private and public realm professionally.

Collaborating with others has brought me joy working as an actor over the last 10 years, and the shared learning environment at KLC has likewise been energising, inspiring and great fun. Moving away from acting now I would love to work in a studio where I can grow and develop my practice working alongside and learning from others.