Most DIY projects don’t fail because of effort, they stall because the decisions feel overwhelming. If you’re planning a home project this summer, here are the most common mistakes I see and how to avoid them. With a clear approach and the right support, you can move forward with confidence instead of second-guessing every step.

Every beautiful home design starts with an idea — a spark of inspiration from a favorite space, a magazine image, or a vision of what “home” should feel like. But between the excitement of that idea and the satisfaction of seeing it come to life, there’s a complex journey filled with decisions, details, and design challenges.

Designing your home should be an exciting, creative experience—but for many homeowners, it’s filled with hesitation and self-doubt. You might have a vision in your head but worry about pulling it together. You second-guess paint colors, question furniture choices, and scroll through endless inspiration photos wondering, “What if I get it wrong?”

When it comes to home design, many homeowners find themselves caught between two paths. On one side, DIY design—fun, personal, and budget-friendly. On the other, full-service interior design—seamless, professional, and hands-free.

When many people hear “design,” they think of stylists choosing colors, picking furniture, and handing over a completed look. But there’s a deeper, more empowering approach gaining traction in the interior world: design coaching.