Design DIY Project Management 102 is a practical, no-nonsense course led by KC Mackay. It teaches you how to plan, budget, schedule, and confidently manage your renovation or build from concept to completion—using professional project management strategies tailored specifically for hands-on homeowners.
A perfect follow on from our Course 1 - Design DIYers 101
Welcome to our Design IY Course 2 - Design DIY Project Management 102:
The course that helps you plan, manage and deliver your renovation — without blowing the budget or your sanity.
"Whether you’re renovating a home, extending, restoring a heritage property or managing your own new build, this course gives you professional project management skills you need — explained clearly, practically and without industry jargon." - KC Mackay
. You might be here because…
You have great design ideas but don’t know how to manage the process
You’re worried about costs spiraling out of control
Trades are speaking a language you don’t fully understand, they don't show up or when they do, the work isn't getting done the way you anticipated
You feel pressure to make decisions quickly — and fear getting them wrong
You want to stay hands-on without being overwhelmed
Truth bomb:
"Most renovation stress doesn’t come from design — it comes from poor planning and unclear decision-making." - KC Mackay
This course teaches you how to think like a Project Manager — even if you’ve never managed a Build or Home Renovation before.
Built specifically for Design DIYers, homeowners and self-builders, this course blends:
Professional project management principles
Real-world design & build experience
Practical tools you can actually use on your own project
No fluff. No scare tactics. Just clarity.
Hi, I’m KC Mackay. I’m a PMP®-certified Project Manager, Interior Designer, MBA graduate, and the founder of design, retail and property consulting businesses.
Manage renovations and builds in Ireland, the Channel Islands and the USA for private clients as an Interior Designer and Project Manager for over 22 years;
Have renovated derelict Heritage-listed properties from a boutique B&B, a Concept POS store, to numerous residential and rental properties.
Founded a Coastal-Inspired Lifestyle brand that sold online and POS for 9 years
Real Estate Agent - Coldwell Banker - Connecticut advised clients on purchase, renovation assessments, stagings and sales.
Have years of experience working with architects, builders, engineers and suppliers. (Former LEED certified, ASID member).
Current Member - The Interiors Association of Ireland, Institute of Project Management - Ireland, The Irish Georgian Society
Have seen what goes wrong — and why and can help you find the answers to what will work best!
This course is everything I wish homeowners were taught before they start.
This course is for you if:
✔ You’re planning a renovation, extension or self-build
✔ You want control — not chaos
✔ You value good design and good decision-making
✔ You want to avoid costly mistakes
✔ You’re willing to plan properly before you start
"This course is not about doing the work yourself — it’s about managing it properly! " - K Mackay
✔ How to define scope so projects don’t creep
✔ How to build a realistic budget
✔ How to schedule trades properly
✔ How to communicate confidently with professionals
✔ How to manage risk, changes and decisions
✔ How to finish strong and protect your investment
8 structured modules
Short, practical lessons
Downloadable templates & checklists
Real examples from Irish, US & Jersey, CI projects
Learn at your own pace
Stop guessing. Start managing.
👉 Enroll in Design DIY Project Management 102
If you were renovating a typical derelict stone cottage, would it be modern or traditional?
Our DesignIY courses, community message board , emails & social media posts will allow for the sharing of the latest courses added, products & material news, tradesmen referrals, member's shared updates & progress. Including first notice via direct emails, community notices, Q&A boards, forum get-togethers and events!
