Before you meet your designer, it will make sense to narrow down the type of interior you prefer - contemporary, modern, traditional and artistic or theme based. Once you have desided this, meet your designer and get a clearer picture of the shape you want your interiors to take. A good designer will advise you on issues such as practicality, economics and functionality of the concept. He may further recommend that you design for the future by making provisions to accommodate growing needs of the family. Now you are ready for the designing stage. The designer has already met you and ubderstood your requirements. Now he will get to work and present his design options for you to choose from. Once you are satisfied with a specific design, expect to be shown a 3D rendering of the design with the final colour scheme. At this stage, you are given a cost estimate and a time schedule. Now you are ready for the implementation stage. The designer is now ready to start work at your site. Ensure that he procures materials, hardware, accessories and furniture of a discernibly good quality and employs talented and experienced craftsmen. Ensure that there is no communication gap between the designer and craftsmen through periodical visits to the site (However, if your designer is well networked, you can recieve status reports even if you are elsewhere). The designer is now giving the final touches to your interiors. Seek his assistance on selection of flooring, sanitary fittings, paintings, artefacts, lighting, furniture and furnisings. A good designer will also offer advice on maintenance and care for various aspects of your interiors so that they last longer. Keep in touch with your designer for follow up examinations and to rectify teething problems, if any. Make sure that your interiors are commissioned by an established design house with the infrastructure, capability and manpower to offer sustained service for life - whole heartedly and cheerfully.