When you hire a designer learn from my mistakes. Hire someone that understands what lifestyle you live. They should know how your space is going to be used for special occasions and on a day to day basis. The designer should present ideas to you, for your approval. Not force decisions on you. Take their advice as they are, in general, the expert on design. But, do not ever let someone make a final decision in your home and you not be at least made aware of and ‘OK’ that decision.