Creating elegant gardens that respect nature and look to the future.
Studio Kernin — Elegant & Sustainable Garden Design in Brittany and Beyond
We design elegant, sustainable gardens, guided by a thoughtful approach that respects the spirit of place and the surrounding natural environment. Our gardens aim to be of enduring beauty and purpose.
Every project combines precise architectural thinking with sensitive planting choice that considers colours, textures, seasonal changes, so as to create harmonious atmospheres. We create gardens with a naturalist, romantic aesthetic that enhance well-being, support biodiversity, and offer a sense of calm in everyday life.
Based in Ille-et-Vilaine and Morbihan, Studio Kernin works with private clients and businesses on bespoke garden designs, from small urban gardens to large landscaped estates, in Brittany and beyond.
Our approach
Trained in the United Kingdom, we bring a wholistic creative approach that is rigorous, innovative and collaborative, combining horticultural expertise with full command of the design process — from the initial sketch to technical drawings and tender documentation—ensuring the delivery of high-quality projects.
Our values
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The benefits of nature for both mental and physical health are well established. In our work, we seek to leverage nature’s essential role in promoting well-being by creating gardens that are relaxing, calming to the mind and stimulates senses.
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We design landscapes that enrich the natural environment while supporting biodiversity. In each project we aim to sequester carbon, filter air pollutants, and manage water resources sustainably. By integrating elements such as climate-resilient design, protecting wildlife habitats, and supporting the soil, we create spaces that preserve ecosystems while bringing enduring enjoyment to those who use them.
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Sustainability lies at the heart of our practice. We prioritise low-carbon, long-lasting materials. We work closely with local suppliers and champion regional craftspeople. This commitment allows us to create landscapes that are both environmentally responsible and deeply rooted in their cultural context.
Our services
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Garden design consultancy
This service is ideally suited to projects seeking our creative direction without the need for a comprehensive design package.
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Full garden design service
Our full garden design service supports you in person from concept through to implementation.
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Planting design
Our botanical and planting design service creates bespoke planting compositions to enrich and structure your existing garden.
Our Projects
The Studio
At Studio Kernin, we create elegant, sustainable gardens that promote well-being and are of enduring beauty and purpose. Our style — both naturalistic and romantic — reflects the spirit of place, while keeping a view towards the future. Our designs combines planting harmonious with the surroundings and use of local, natural materials, to achieve serene, immersive outdoor spaces. Every detail is carefully considered to foster a strong connection between nature, form and function.
Based in Brittany, France, we offer comprehensive garden design services as well as online consultations for private, commercial and public projects. Our bilingual team, works in both French and English. We are committed to providing an attentive and personalised experience in bringing our clients’ visions to life.
Our Team
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François Kernin
GARDEN DESIGNER
François brings expertise and creative vision to every project. Trained in both English and French garden styles, first at the Oxford College of Garden Design in the UK and then with the renowned landscape architects Wirtz International in Belgium, he combines tradition and innovation to create gardens that balance structural elegance with natural fluidity. His hands-on experience—including working with the gardening team at the Jardins de Kerdalo in Brittany, earning qualifications at Royal Horticultural Society qualification, and managing therapeutic garden projects for refugees—shapes a sensitive and thoughtful approach to landscape design.
Before co-founding Studio Kernin, François spent twelve years working with the United Nations, developing a deep understanding of diverse landscapes—Mediterranean, tropical, and temperate—and the climatic challenges that shape them. Fluent in both French and English, and a graduate of Sciences Po Grenoble and the University of Oxford, François approaches every project with professionalism, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to environmentally responsible design.
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Kataii Sayarath
GARDEN DESIGNER
Tai Sayarath brings a strong artistic sensitivity and a constant pursuit of excellence to her garden design work. An Australian with a rich international background, she has studied, lived and worked in Asia, the Middle East, North America and Europe, integrating diverse cultural influences and perspectives into her designs. Prior to co-founding Studio Kernin, Tai worked as an humanitarian with the United Nations Refugee agency.
Tai cultivates an artistic vision that embraces exceptional craftsmanship and refinement. She collaborates with local artisans to create bespoke furniture, artworks, and other unique landscape elements. Her artistic approach is deeply informed by her passion for and training in fine art and craft, shaped in particular by an apprenticeship with a traditional Japanese master potter and her experience as a painter.
A graduate of the University of Oxford, Tai is also a passionate gardener. Her deep connection to nature and her commitment to research and innovation inform a comprehensive approach to designing inspiring, harmonious gardens.
Contact us
We would be delighted to learn more about your garden project and explore together how to bring your vision to life.
