Meet Claire, the expert behind the studio
With decades of experience and a genuine passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces, Claire is the heart behind Home Planning Studio.
My journey into interior design
From a young age, I was fascinated by interior trends and the way a space could change how you feel. My career began in the software industry as an account manager, but when relocation wasn’t an option, I decided to follow my passion.
Taking redundancy, I joined a kitchen company and quickly moved from front-of-house to learning the technical side with a kitchen surveyor. I never looked back! My love for transforming spaces, combined with technical know-how and extra courses in colour and styling, set me on the path to start my own business.
My true passion for interior design and the client experience
What I love most is seeing the final result and the joy on my clients’ faces. I always create multiple plans to find the best solution, but my gut instinct usually leads the way. Presenting these ideas and hearing, “Can we really have this?” is the best feeling!
Turning drawings into reality takes careful planning and a great team, and I’m committed to making the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. After a break, I’m excited to reignite my passion, build a fantastic team, and help even more people transform their homes.
More than just interior design: My story and approach
Whether you’re planning your first renovation or just curious about how I work, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions below.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, I’m always happy to chat and guide you through the process. Your peace of mind and confidence are important to me, and I want you to feel fully informed every step of the way.
How do I make clients feel comfortable and confident during a project?
From the very first meeting, I focus on building a genuine relationship with my clients, discussing ideas, sharing rough plans over Zoom, and exploring what their space could become. Showing concept CAD plans is often a game-changer, helping clients truly visualise the transformation and feel excited about the process. As we review options for doors, flooring, and finishes, my advice is always tailored to their needs and preferences, building trust along the way.
By the time installation begins, clients feel reassured because they know exactly what to expect. I walk them through the process, visit the site daily, and keep communication open so any questions or concerns are addressed quickly. If challenges arise, I’m proactive and transparent, ensuring clients always feel supported. This personal, hands-on approach is what sets my service apart from larger companies, and it’s why so many clients recommend me to others.
How do you work with clients to make sure there needs are met?
I love meeting new people and learning about their lives, how they use their space, and what they hope to achieve. Clients often tell me I’m easy to talk to, friendly, and approachable – but the best compliment I receive is that they can truly feel my passion for what I do. Many have said that after meeting with other companies, they chose me because I genuinely care. That’s absolutely true – no matter the size of the project, I’m always excited to help and can’t wait to see the positive difference it makes in my clients’ lives.
What has been your career path so far?
Setting up my own business was a huge learning curve, but word of mouth and recommendations soon helped me build a strong reputation. I pride myself on giving every client a full experience, from daily site visits and project management to finishing touches like decoration and dressing.
This personal, hands-on approach became my signature and set me apart from bigger companies. Even when challenges arise, I make sure everything runs smoothly for my clients, handling the details behind the scenes so you can enjoy the process and the results.
What do you think makes a home truly special?
This is different for everyone, really – it’s about how your space supports your way of life. You can have large rooms and a great location, but if your home doesn’t function the way you need or the rooms don’t feel right, it just won’t feel like home.
To me, a home should offer peace, safety, comfort, and joy. It’s a place to relax, entertain, and surround yourself with the things and people you love. Even if your home doesn’t feel quite right now, the good news is that it can always be transformed.
How would you describe your design style?
I’d probably describe my design style as classy and homely. While I enjoy keeping up with the latest trends and get excited about new styles and colours, I believe kitchens and bathrooms are long-term investments that need to be right for you.
My advice is to choose what you love and invest in the best quality you can afford. Over time, you can refresh your space with paint, accessories, and rugs without major expense. The main elements of a home should be classic and built to last, creating a well-designed space that not only feels great but also adds value if you ever decide to sell.
What’s your favorite room or space in your own home, and why?
I love my home and am currently working my way through its transformation after a recent move. I’ve just colour-drenched my living room, it’s not for everyone, but it’s warm, cosy, and gives you a wonderful cocooned feeling. I have a really comfortable sofa that I adore too!
The rest of the house is light and bright, with a sunny, spacious kitchen that’s perfect for socialising and entertaining. I wanted the space to feel airy during the day and cosy at night, which I achieved with thoughtful lighting and a corner fire. These rooms are definitely my favourites!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love finding new bits of decor for my house, scrolling for wallpaper inspiration, visiting interior shops, and changing up a room. I definitely have the right job! It’s something I never get bored of and truly enjoy. Outside of design, I also love spending time with my horses, having drinks with friends, cooking, and the occasional night out dancing, as long as I’m home in my pyjamas by 10 pm!
What is something people might be surprised to know about you?
People are often surprised to learn that, alongside my design work, I’m also a foster carer. It’s not something most expect when they see me in “design mode,” but caring for others is a big part of who I am.
My friends know me for my adventurous spirit and spontaneous ideas, but everything I do is driven by purpose and intention. I believe in building a life that makes me happy, and for me, that means following my passions – both in my work and at home. As I always say, do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life!