The home, like the clothes we wear and the food we eat, is an intensely personal expression of our lives, experience and values, Although the home may be expressive of your own personal lifestyle, it is more often the combined result of several family members who all need to define their personality. Personal spaces are also those favourite spots where, for some reason, we feel totally happy and at ease. Although interior design is a matter of personal preference, there can be little doubt that employing the services of a professional can be invaluable. Working together with an interior designer can help the new homeowner decide what furniture style, colour scheme, upholstery fabric, decoration and, even plants, to introduce in order to achieve the ideal overall 'look'