I was ever so thankful for the ability to build anything else anywhere on the lot even if the sim couldn't go there. It helped keep my sanity after staring at her tiny space. It's no wonder she lost it.
Her room was tucked in a corner with a nice view out of her studio section and the rest of the lot was a construction site. To prep for the mansion work I built her a 2 story art museum and stored her art work and art investments in it. Was a ton of fun and a break from the constant painting. For the final stretch I forced her to neglect her plant best friend even to just get that last bit of earning in. I think she's still mad.
I love the idea some had about life after freedom and look forward to finishing arranging and setting up the museum. Hopefully Joan will venture out her cabana and come see it someday....