Oh My Styled Life

Furnishings & Architectural Details for Elevated Downtown Living 

For homeowners in major metropolitan areas like Austin or Dallas, luxury condo interior design is all about combining exclusivity, functionality, and a strong sense of place. These spaces often overlook glittering city skylines, winding rivers, and character-rich neighborhoods – giving owners a new perspective and appreciation for their city.  

While exciting for both the owners and designer, it can come with unique challenges, from maximizing square footage to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in high-rise settings. Here are three expert recommendations to elevate your condo interior design, inspired by one of our luxurious designs at the Fifth & West residence in downtown Austin, Texas.  

We are proud to share that the O’Hara Interiors Fifth & West condo project is a finalist in the Austin Home Design Awards. See the project on our portfolio here.

1. Consider Furniture Scale and Proportion  

One of the most common condo design pitfalls is over or undercrowding the space with furniture that is either too large or too small. A well-designed condo should feel open and proportional to its footprint and vast city views, and an interior designer can help you select pieces that are both aesthetically pleasing and cognizant of the surroundings. 

In loft-style condos with high ceilings, take advantage of vertical space by adding tall mirrors, statement art, or sculptural lighting to maintain balance and draw the eye to different design elements. Better yet, our designers can source custom artwork made by Austin artists and complete your space with a piece that is both deeply meaningful and hyperlocal.  

See this stylish North Loop loft or this luxury Eleven on The River condo for examples of how smart furniture layouts can transform a space.

2. Master the Art of Lighting 

Lighting is a key component of all condo interior design. Many condos come with standard fixtures that don’t fully embrace the opportunity to enhance the space. A well-thought-out lighting plan should include a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create depth and warmth across shared and private spaces. 

There are several paths to elevating your design through intentional lighting. Lean into statement lighting—large sculptural chandeliers, pendant lights with artisanal craftsmanship, or LED-integrated cove lighting to highlight architectural details. If your condo is somewhere with abundant year-round natural light, like Austin or Dallas, using smart window treatments can balance brightness. 

For more details, read all about the design intent in this high-rise condo on Carpet One Floor & Home’s Blog.

3. Prioritize Customization and Built-Ins 

One of the biggest mistakes condo owners make is relying too heavily on standard, off-the-shelf furniture and decor. Instead, luxurious condo interior design should feel intentional and tailored to your lifestyle. Investing in custom built-in shelving and cabinetry designed specifically for your space enhances functionality while adding a refined aesthetic. Designers can create custom storage around any one of their hobbies in order to maximize the home’s potential – whether it be personalized pickle-ball storage, a library, or temperature-controlled wine storage.

Custom cabinetry can also be a work of art. See the custom wraparound cabinetry and wall treatment in Elysian Fields, designed by our incredible partners at Northland Woodworks.   

A well-designed condo artfully balances luxury, comfort, and functionality so that owners can enjoy their downtown lifestyle to the fullest. Reach out to our design team to discuss how to furnish and complete your next condo interior design project.