16–19 mm for carcass and structural strength. 9 mm for light panels and shutters. 6 mm for back panels and drawer bottoms.
German-based hinges and channels last longer and feel more precise. For long-term homes, yes. For investment / rental flats, good Indian-made hardware is reliable value.
Yes — but only for jaali panels, decorative CNC, and wall art. It has low moisture resistance and weak screw-holding, so it should not be your carcass.
At the very first meeting. Ask what is NOT included, and ask for a lump-sum estimate of electrical, painting and plumbing so the final number doesn't surprise you after design.
Yes, if you can spare the storage. Eliminates the dust-collecting top, looks built-in, and uses loft space you'd otherwise lose.