A design-oriented DIY business exclusively for women
In 2022, I had just signed the lease on my Berlin apartment. The place was in rough shape, and the landlord made it clear that things like flooring and other basic cosmetic improvements wouldn’t be installed.
As an architect and designer with construction experience, I decided to renovate the apartment myself.
I got almost everything done on my own, except replacing the bare hanging bulbs with proper light fixtures. Not knowing who else to call, I hired a tradesman from eBay Kleinanzeigen. Not only was his work sloppy, he made unwanted romantic advances, became aggressive when I rejected him, and then charged me €300 for his time. Bella Builds Berlin grew out of that experience. I want to help women with the kinds of home projects they may not know how to tackle themselves, without having to invite a random man into their home.
I have a degree in architecture and also work professionally as a visual artist in Berlin and the Bay Area, California
FAQ
Can I help keep the cost down?
Absolutely. The biggest thing is prep. If furniture is moved, walls are cleared and materials are already on site, I can spend more of the visit actually working.
Do I need to buy materials myself?
Usually, yes. I’m happy to make a shopping list, recommend products and calculate quantities. If I need to source or collect materials for you, that can be added to the quote.
Do you bring your own tools?
Yes, I bring the tools needed for the job. Bulky equipment like a ladder may incur a small transport fee if one isn’t available on site.
Can you give me a fixed price?
For straightforward jobs, often yes. For work where the condition of the walls or existing construction is uncertain, I’ll give you an estimate and agree on a maximum price beforehand.
What if the job takes longer than expected?
I won’t go above the agreed maximum without checking with you first.
Do you do electrical or plumbing work?
I only take on work that doesn’t require a certified tradesperson. Major electrical, gas, plumbing and structural work are outside my scope.
Can you help me choose paint or finishes?
Yes. I can help with color, paint type and finish. I especially enjoy limewash and natural paints.
Can you help with design as well as DIY?
Yes. I offer interior design help, furniture sourcing, custom shelving and creative DIY/upcycling projects.
Do you work with furniture I already own?
Definitely. I can adapt, refinish, mount or creatively reuse existing pieces where appropriate.
Pricing
Small jobs
€60 minimum visit / first hour
€45 each additional hour
Half day
Up to 4 hours
€180
Full day
Up to 8 hours
€340
Painting
Small room / straightforward walls
from €250
Full-room refresh with wallpaper removal, patching/plaster work, prep + painting
from €1,500
Custom shelving / woodwork
Quoted per project
Furniture sourcing
Fixed fee per item
from €120
Interior design / room refresh
Quoted as a fixed project fee
Ladder / bulky equipment
If a suitable ladder isn’t available on site
€35 transport fee
Materials
Charged separately
