Nicole Arnold Interiors  -  Dallas Interior Design News

Need help understanding your design style? We’re here to guide you through the process, ensuring your home uniquely represents your personality and lifestyle. Here are some of the most common interior design styles that will enable you to begin defining your style as you embark on your interior design project.

Traditional spaces, at their foundation, embrace structure, symmetry and a sense of refinement. Rich woods, elegant moldings and timeless furniture silhouettes create balance and permanence. Classic patterns such as damask, florals, plaid and houndstooth, paired with sumptuous fabrics like velvet or silk, add depth and sophistication. Layered draperies, polished metals and curated accessories—gilded frames, crystal lighting and heirloom rugs—complete the look, resulting in interiors that feel warm, welcoming and enduring.

Refined Rustic design blends natural character with an elevated sense of polish. The style relies on a clean aesthetic and a neutral palette, striking harmony between masculine and feminine notes. Layered textures—soft wools, supple leathers and hides—introduce warmth, while varied wood finishes, stone and other organic elements ground the space in nature. Thoughtful detailing and cozy accents refine the look, creating interiors that feel both sophisticated and inviting.

Coastal style evokes the ease of a seaside retreat with its soft, cool color palette that naturally brightens a space. Light woods, woven textures (think rattan and rush seats) and breezy fabrics create a casual, inviting atmosphere, while simple furniture frames and natural surfaces keep the look approachable. The result is an interior that feels open, airy and refreshed—bringing the best elements of a coastal getaway right into the home.

Transitional design blends traditional elegance with modern simplicity, creating a look that is timeless, yet fresh. Classic forms are updated with clean lines, refined finishes and subtle geometric details. A neutral palette establishes a calm foundation, while carefully placed pops of color add interest without overwhelming the design. The result is a harmonious balance—rooted in tradition, streamlined for today and layered with depth and sophistication.

Modern design is rooted in simplicity and function, with a strong emphasis on clean lines and open space. Neutral foundations—often white, black and natural wood—set the stage for a minimalist look that feels fresh and uncluttered. Furniture is low-profile with crisp, geometric forms, while materials such as glass, steel and concrete highlight the style’s streamlined character. Accents are purposeful and restrained, utilizing either vibrant colors or monochromatic neutrals, ensuring the focus remains on form, balance and a seamless sense of flow.

Mid-Century Modern incorporates iconic pieces from the 1950s and 1960s that remain timeless today—think Mad Men reimagined for modern living. Defined by warm woods, clean lines and a pared-down aesthetic, this style embodies the principle of “less is more.” Furniture frames draw inspiration from architecture, showcasing geometric forms and sculptural silhouettes. The result is a minimal yet inviting look that feels both retro and enduringly relevant.

Eclectic style is fully curated, layering bold colors, varied patterns and pieces drawn from multiple design traditions. While it pulls from many influences, the key is balance—each element is chosen with intention so the overall look feels cohesive rather than chaotic. This approach often results in the most visually engaging spaces, filled with depth, personality and interest—perfect for those who prefer not to commit to a single design style.

At Nicole Arnold Interiors, we make starting your design journey simple and seamless. Our in-depth on-site consultation allows us to understand your goals, share our process and explore how we can best collaborate. It’s the perfect first step to ensure alignment and to see if we’re the right fit to bring your vision to life.