I just attended an exhibit at the Getty Museum titled “Pathways to Paradise: Medieval India and Europe” documenting people’s travels to destinations across Asia, Africa, and Europe in pursuit of heaven on earth. People have longed to find it for centuries, but have not been able to. Somehow, it made me think of DIYers I work with, those who are instead of expecting it to be somewhere waiting for them, are willing to build/create their own. Right where they are — in their own backyard.

The word “paradise” is synonymous with bliss and happiness. It is defined as an ideal or idyllic place or a state of pure happiness. In literature and art it is represented as a magical garden with enchanted groves of unsurpassed beauty.

The image above presents the map on view at the Getty show. It’s the world as charted by cartographer Vesconte Maggiolo, a man living in Naples in the early sixteenth century. It actually provides a location for the earthly paradise — he shows it in the vicinity of Ethiopia. Sited according to the description in Genesis, the Garden of Eden is at the source of four rivers: the Pishon, the Gihon, the Tigris, and Euphrates.

Hm… No wonder it has never been found. The whole concept of searching seems flawed to me… Why should I waste my time aimlessly wandering, hoping to stumble upon bliss and harmony? Relying on chance, gambling with my life… It should be the opposite — about being in charge.

Instead of attempting to locate paradise (concept of perfection), I can strive to build it in my own backyard.

My definition of paradise is an environment that promotes balance, engages me, and anticipates every need. Frankly, it’s attainable — I am quite capable of creating this nirvana.

You might be thinking: “Easy for you to say. You are an architect.” Well, having done it for myself, I know I can help others. That’s why I started AllaDIYally. My main goal is to give people tools when it comes to building their personal heaven right where they are — in their own backyard.

Clearly, DIYers are achieving fulfillment by putting themselves in control. A survey conducted by The Home Depot determined that 64% of 1,000 buyers, who had purchased a home in the past year, are ready to tackle a remodeling project without any assistance!

However, if a design question does come up, as architect on demand, I am here. Also, you can download a free how-to e-book DIY Like an Architect: 11-step method, read it, and build a paradise in your own backyard, metaphorically speaking. The initial consultation is free of charge. No need to search far and wide.