It was the crown molding that held inspirational magic for designer Michael Aiduss in the home's light-drenched living room. The intersection of four passageways previously was home to some mediocre built-ins, but with enchanting trim crafted locally by Casci Ornamental Plaster, Aiduss began envisioning a conceptual client who was a Parisian socialite who had recently married a Texan and was relocating to Dallas.

Immersing himself in classic French interiors from the 1920s to the 1960s—as well as historic rooms from all over Western Europe—the designer sought to create a room that “feels rooted in classicism and filled with a generation of beautiful, collected items. I want people to feel like they’d just been transported to a chic French home or hotel, a place that is atmospheric and evocative in the wonderment of these exciting items, both classic and modern.”

This living room features a collection of notable pieces, from a Karl Springer coffee table (inspired by Jean-Michel Frank) to a 19th-century black and gold Chinese screen as well as vintage chairs covered in Pierre Frey tiger-print linen. Aiduss worked with local decorative painter Barry Martin to add patina to the walls and, in collaboration with The Shade Store, he created breezy drapery that features trim from his brand-new collection with Houles.

“The fireplace area sums me up completely as it’s bold, clean, and classic, with a flair of modernist touches,” says Aiduss. “This space offers a sense of luxury that is also comfortable because I didn’t want it to be a one-hit-wonder room. I want people to experience this space and feel like it’s attainable for them.” (Veranda)