Raj - What you say is true that a lot of interior design's margin is in furniture. I will not sugar coat it. And many designers may seem to be more interested in that when you bring them in. But I have had several clients call me over the years saying they are building a new home and would like to consult primarily on layout. When you speak to someone is tell them you are not ready to order furnishings or window treatments, but that you would like a contract that focuses on layout, planning, and interior detailing (i.e. doors, trims, floors) - i.e. the bones of the house. What I would suggest is when you call for a designer, you be prepared to pay a good consultation fee. A good rule of thumb is that you can expect to pay between $3-$10 per square foot of your home depending on the area of your country and the expertise/experience of the designer. If you are not averse to paying this type of fee, and communicate to the designer that your interest is in getting the best solutions, not in purchasing furniture at this time, I'm sure you will be able to get the level of service you desire. If someone you talk to doesn't seem thrilled to provide this kind of service, move on to the next person. Don't rely on "fame" or how well known someone is. They may be well known for doing show houses or just because they've been in the field the longest in your area. Not because they're the right fit for you. You could also check the Houzz directory for good designers in your area. The difficulty is that there are often decorators whose expertise and focus is really just on furnishings not so much on construction - and they serve a purpose for their clients. But there are other designers who provide more of a wholistic approach and have more familiarity with building a new home. These are the people you should seek out. Houzz is a fantastic community - and as I said you may get good advice here but there's really no replacement for someone to work with you in person. Sorry for the super long post but I feel passionately about this and I think this advice will best suit your needs.

Hi, Our new home is nearing completion. We are looking for suggestions and ideas in decorating our living room and kitchen based on the plan attached. All walls in living room are double ceiling. 1) We plan to put our TV on wall B. We are open to wall mounting or getting a custom made cabinet there. 2) Fireplace has a nice mantle 3) Wall A is really big and tall. I am wondering what to put there. 4) Ceiling has 4 recessed lights 5) Windows on wall D faces East so there will be ample morning light. Windows are really huge. 3 at the bottom and 3 at the top. 6) Flooring is hand scraped hardwood in dark color Specifically it will help us if you can suggest - Wall Colors, faux finish ideas, art work, paintings, pictures ideas lighting ideas Blinds / shutters ideas - Is it advisavble to put blinds/shutters on the 3 top windows Any other suggestions are welcome. Thanks

"Residence" sounds right. "Estate" sounds big to me = big house + lots of acres of land + big wrought iron fences. But why use surname. I seen plaques on peoples houses that read "The smiths"

Hi Saran. you've not specified your requirements. Unless and until we know the requirements , we cannot judge. And i also agree with WDF space design that the dimensions are not clear