But much like plumbing or auto repair, interior design is one of those professions where you don’t truly appreciate the value of a pro until your happy little do-it-yourself project turns into a wildly expensive, comedy of errors that has you in stitches (otherwise, you’ll cry).

It hits each decorator l’amateur differently.

Maybe your realization will first come when you find yourself elbow-deep in faux finish more the color of “baby poop” than “autumn mustard”.

Or the moment your “off the books” contractor’s enthusiastic hammering splits your crown molding and leaves a giant crater in your wall.

Or perhaps your grand epiphany will arrive with the custom upholsters, as they deliver a 5-foot couch for your 4-foot space (no refunds, of course).

When it does hit you, you’ll find yourself staring down the barrel of the realization that you would have saved so much time, money and exasperation had you just gone with a professional.

Here are some more great reasons to invite an interior designer to tackle your next project:

• They offer the dual advantage of design foresight and 20/20 hindsight. Designers design for a living, so they have a good “lay of the land”. They keep the vision of your soon-to-be-fabulous room in their crosshairs, while using the benefit of their experience to save you from “rookie” mistakes.

• They have access to resources you don’t. Designers are connected. They bring a long list of resources and contacts to the table, saving you the headaches of finding good contractors, furniture and trades people.

• They take your project to the next level. Designers are visual people. That ability to picture a finished room before the project’s even begun is a huge asset to you. While a do-it-yourselfer might decorate a room to look “Tuscan inspired” – a good designer will create an experience, making you feel like you’re in Tuscany itself.

• They can help stretch your budget. Designers know what things cost, and how to get them for a fair price. Plus, they can review your budget up front, advise you on areas of the room where it’s important to make a large investment, and identify ways you can get away with something less expensive.

• They’re cutting-edge. Designers stay current on all the latest styles and trends, and can advise you on a whole array of new products and services you never knew existed.

So get out there and find your interior designer! One with the experience, aptitude and connections to make designing your space the fun rewarding project it’s meant to be – and leave do-it-yourselfing to the likes of Martha Stewart.

You’ll be ever so glad you did.