There are many factors that work against such well-meant intentions. Some are the simple practical realities of miscalculations of time and the distraction of their usual life patterns. Then, there is the lack of knowledge and insight to the very essential, specific details of all the aspects that come into play – depending on the complexity of the project one has taken on.
By no means must a determined and dedicated do-it-myself advocate turn the whole shebang over to “professionals” -- or anticipate certain disaster! There are many portions of even the most complex project that the client can achieve, with or without professional guidance (or intervention). Knowing where those divisions should wisely occur is very important. About the “fun” part! Doing your project essentially yourself can be a lot of fun! Insuring that, and keeping up the enthusiasm, enjoyment and self-satisfaction, is more likely to sustain when you recognize when to get advice before you decide to “wing it” on some unfamiliar detail. Resources are all around you. Most of those resources are willing to advise from the sidelines – within reason. But, don’t expect a reputable resource to hand out specific instruction or advice when they only have a small piece of the puzzle or a limited glimpse of the project. A fragment of guidance here, and another fragment there can become one of the traps. So, how can you achieve a happy medium between essentially accomplishing your project “yourself,” and making sure that the technical details that are new territory for you do not derail everything? Where must the compromises come in? Where do you turn for what you need – without having conflicting advice from numerous sources, all with partial insight to your challenges? Coordinating all the parts of achieving your project vision need not be daunting. Limited assistance from a design professional, at the front end planning stage, is one solution. Make it clear that you wish to produce your project personally, hands-on. Clarify that what you want is informed, knowledgeable, professional guidance with oversight! Another wise decision, as your own “project coordinator,” would be to invest in and acquire professional plans, for every step of the project phases, with which you can proceed with more confidence. Bottom line: before embarking on a do-it-yourself adventure, spend a fraction of your budget on some professional design consultation and guidance on how to do-it-right-yourself – to insure the best outcome! |
Robert Boccabella, B.F.A., Certified Interior DesignerRED goes with everything! Read my blog and find out why. Collaboration & Writing: Ms. Zoe Tummillo
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September 2020
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