As interior designers we must first listen to our client, to find out what they need, what they would like to achieve. Working with the all the elements of design every day of our lives means we have an expanded knowledge about products and the principles of interior design. Eileen Aldous is a chartered designer, having qualified at Suffolk College and she's now had over 25 years experience as a designer and project manager.

Having established a framework from the client, and gained some idea of the budget, and certainly found out what is the upper-limit that must not be exceeded, we can begin work.

The initial steps decide what is appropriate and functional, and will acord with codes of practice and standards, especially important when dealing with buildings open to the public and where users have specific needs.

Technology is wonderful, and we could create electronic walk-throughs and other gizmos - indeed we can if the client really wants, but we tend to stick with a story-board. Perhaps that's got something to do with our background in designing sets for TV and film. The board displays all the elements of the design. A sketch of the finished space, together with samples of all colours, materials used, flooring, lightning and anything else of significance.

This is the working template, which can - and invariably will - change following discussions with the client and suppliers.

Because we often work with our own decorating team they are also consulted. The guys that will do the job can often put their finger right on the unforeseen problem. That wallpaper is a pig. you'll never get it to hang straight or that material will fade if left in front of that window or why don't you talk to Eric, he can make you the cupboard you really need.

We'll then prepare working drawings and specifications for the interior construction, the ceiling plan, lighting, interior detailing, materials, finishes, space planning, furnishings, fixtures, and equipment, always ensuring that they comply to applicable codes and regulations and keep to budget.

As we don't know everything we rely upon many people who, collectively, do know a lot about their chosen field of expertise. We know about specialist areas of mechanical, electrical - or building service - engineering. One of our partners built shopping centres, offices, even sewage plants for many years. There are architects, civil and structural engineers, groundwork experts and many other folk we can call upon as required.

We'll handle the contract documentation and the tendering process, monitor the contractors, project manage, handle variations, prepare workflow schedules, stage payments, costings, and join in with the client over a glass of wine at the end of the project.

The construction industry is notorious for not matching up to its promises. We cannot provide any guarantees but we do keep our clients informed, and take notice of what they say. We have great faith in our own ability, and do our utmost to use tried and trusted workers, contractors and suppliers.