Many homeowners assume that tasks like hanging a gallery wall or refreshing a garden bed require professional help, but two design experts say otherwise. In a recent guide, interior designer Benji Lewis and landscape designer Cate Singleton shared a handful of projects that are far more approachable than they appear—provided you have the right mindset and a few basic tools.
Lewis, founder of Benji Lewis Design, and Singleton, director of design for Tilly's, a landscape company founded by four friends, both emphasize that confidence and preparation are key. Their advice, drawn from years of hands-on experience, aims to empower first-time homeowners and DIY novices to take on tasks they might otherwise outsource.
Why Some Projects Are Easier Than They Look
For Lewis, one of the most intimidating projects is also one of the simplest: creating a gallery wall. Many people wait until they can afford a professional to hang their framed art, but Lewis insists that with a little planning, it's a task anyone can master. His method involves measuring the wall space, laying the art on the floor within that same footprint, and rearranging pieces until the layout feels right. Then, he says, simply "transpose the pictures onto your wall." No special skills required—just patience and a measuring tape.
Similarly, Singleton points to outdoor chores like mulching and weeding as tasks that are often unnecessarily outsourced. "A good rule of thumb is about 2 inches of mulch spread pretty evenly," she advises. For small jobs, bagged mulch works fine; for larger areas, a wheelbarrow makes the job easier. The key is to avoid overthinking the process—these are straightforward tasks that yield immediate visual results.
Painting, Edging, and Raised Beds: DIY Wins
Painting a room is another project that often triggers a call to a pro, but Lewis says it's usually a DIY-friendly endeavor—unless you're dealing with high ceilings or tricky surfaces like non-drywall materials. The secret, he notes, is in the prep work. Applying painter's tape diligently and not rushing the process can make all the difference. Once the prep is done, the actual painting is manageable for most people.
Landscape edging, which can seem precise and daunting, is another task Singleton says is easier than it looks. "Edging can be as simple as using a spade to create a v-cut edge to define the line between lawn and landscape bed area," she explains. This low-impact project instantly boosts curb appeal without requiring heavy machinery or professional expertise.
For those with gardening ambitions, Singleton also recommends building raised garden beds. They can be simple rectangles or even L-shaped, and she suggests using galvanized tubs as an alternative for vegetable and cutting gardens. The materials are readily available, and the construction is basic enough for a weekend project.
Staying Organized Without a Pro
Finally, Lewis addresses the realm of home organization, where professional organizers are often hired. While pros can be helpful, Lewis believes that daily habits can keep a home tidy without outside help. He recommends starting each day with a made bed and clear surfaces, and ending it by cleaning your desk of paperwork and stationery—even wiping down the keyboard. Over time, these small routines prevent clutter from accumulating, making a professional organizer unnecessary for most.
Both experts stress that DIY isn't about doing everything yourself—it's about knowing when a project is within your reach. By starting with these manageable tasks, homeowners can build confidence and save money, while still calling in pros for truly complex jobs.
