The ideal space isn’t defined merely by how it looks, but by how it feels. Color and texture, form and function, light and layout: They all work together to achieve a balanced, inviting space. But what looks easy is almost never easy to achieve.

Which is why we asked six of Houston’s top interior designers to share what they love about their favorite rooms—along with their best tips and tricks—and, for even more inspiration, visited a Houston building where each condo is more beautiful than the next. Then we combed the city in search of its greatest home design stores, seeking out shops capable of turning our wildest designer dreams into reality.

Below, our own curated collection of Houston's greatest home design hits: