Why do some people decide to design their own house?

I'd say the main reason people design their own house is to create a space that truly fits their lifestyle. As a UI designer, I understand how frustrating it can be to work with pre-made templates that don't quite match your needs. For example, my cousin in Hangzhou recently built his own home because he wanted a workspace with perfect natural lighting for his photography. That's something you rarely find in standard apartments. Of course, it requires more time and money, but the result is a home that functions exactly how you need it to. In Shanghai especially, where space is limited, custom designs can make small areas feel much more livable.