Wake Me Up When the Project’s Done
Most designers know the struggle of getting a project almost done—but that final stretch seems to last forever. The furniture is installed, the construction is (mostly) complete, and the client is happy to have somewhere to sit… But that last 10%? It’s like a never-ending game of whack-a-mole—finish one thing, and another pops up.
It’s the mirror that needs replacement glass, the chair that’s still on backorder, the art that needs to be framed. And without those final touches, the space just doesn’t feel finished. It’s like baking a cake and skipping the frosting—technically edible, but deeply disappointing. If you’ve ever had a project stretch out at 90%, you’re not alone. Here’s how to push through and get to the true finish line.
Why the last 10% is the hardest
The final phase of a project is where all the tiny, maddening details come to haunt you. Those custom drapery brackets are all different lengths (why!?) and need to be remade. The contractor who was supposed to order the light fixture never did, and now it’s discontinued—because of course it is.
Then there’s the budget fatigue. After months of approving invoices, sometimes the client sees that last round of accessories as “extra” instead of essential. But let’s be real—the finishing details are what take a room from “nicely furnished” to “this belongs in a magazine.”
And, of course, there’s us—the designers. After pouring so much creative energy into a project, sometimes we just… run out of steam. Chasing down a framed piece of art or getting the bedding just right might not feel as exciting as moving on to a fresh new project. But this is the moment to push through.
How to push a project to 100%
1. Create a clear Final Install Checklist
Make a master list of every single outstanding item—no matter how small. That one missing knob? It’s on the list. The lightbulb you need to replace? It’s on there, too. Having everything written down makes it easier to track progress and share updates with clients.
2. Build in a budget and timeline for styling
Final layers like window treatments, accessories, art, and plants shouldn’t be afterthoughts—they should be part of the plan from the start. Build as much into the intital presentation and proposal as possible (especially the drapery!) Get a retainer for it early so the funds are allocated before the budget fatigue sets in.
3. Hold vendors and trades accountable
Backorders, delays, and ghosting are par for the course in this industry, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept them without a fight. Keep communication clear, follow up relentlessly, and don’t be afraid to apply a little pressure when needed.
4. Schedule a professional photography day
Nothing lights a fire under a project like a looming photo shoot. When there’s a hard deadline for getting a space photo-ready, both you and your client are more likely to wrap up those lingering details. Plus, it ensures your work gets properly documented—because if a design isn’t photographed, did it even happen?
Why finishing strong matters
That last 10% is what separates a nice project from a portfolio-worthy one. A beautifully completed space leads to better photos, more referrals, and a higher perceived value of your work. Plus, when clients live in a fully finished space, they feel like they hired a designer and will value all your hard work even more.
So the next time a project feels stuck at 90%, don’t let it sit there. Push for the finish line, embrace the chaos of styling, and get that space looking its absolute best.
How do you handle the final 10% of your projects?
Fizzles & Sizzles
Rebecca's Fizzle
Shaun's Fizzle
I learned the hard way about Cleaning Code X. Not even a professional solvent could remove spots that came on 3 of 4 chairs. Luckily the vendor took responsiblity but it caused delays and annoyance. Designer beware!
It’s a tale as old as time: vendor ships wrong tile, delays job, vendor sends replacement tile but 1/2 break during shipping. We lost nearly an entire month of progress on one of our bathroom projects but it’s almost across the finish line.
Rebecca's Sizzle
Shaun's Sizzle
I’m at the end of two of my favorite projects ever. One got 90% installed and the second one is scheduled for next month. Stay tuned for the final push, its about to get 🤘🏽.
I kicked off the month visiting friends in Palm Springs and their home is always such a lovely and restorative space. It was a much-needed break, let’s just say that.
Stuff We're Digging
01. Rebecca’s daily schlepper got an upgrade
02. Rebecca can’t decide which color is her favorite
03. Shaun finally upgraded his dinnerware
04. Did you notice our little format change at the beginning of this episode
05. For once a porcelain tile that serves the marble look
