Houston-based interior design firm Interiors by Oscar carefully curates standout spaces with a certain joie de vivre. We sat down with founder and creative director Oscar Banta-Guevara to talk design inspirations, summer trends and more.

PHOTO BY LAURIE PEREZ PHOTOGRAPHY

First and foremost, can you walk us through your journey with interior design?

I have always loved working with people and had a flair for the creative. This allowed me to forge a path throughout my career that brought me into the worlds of bespoke textiles, natural stone, luxury goods, custom accessories and exceptional customer service. My experience and expertise in these areas continue to influence and guide me not only in the design industry but have become the foundation for Interiors by Oscar itself.

PHOTO BY LAURIE PEREZ PHOTOGRAPHY

What inspired you to open your design firm, Interiors by Oscar?

My passion for interior design led me to launch my own design business, Interiors by Oscar. For years, I worked behind the scenes in supporting roles, but I always knew that my next move would be to open my own business. I am a firm believer that our homes have become more than just dwelling places—they are also our workspaces, our technology hubs, and our sanctuaries. My years of experience in the interior design industry gave me a sense of what today’s consumers were lacking when looking for professional design services. I am fortunate to have formed partnerships with custom home builders, remodeling general contractors, and real estate professionals to collaborate on a wide variety of both residential and commercial projects to help meet my client’s design needs.

Interiors by Oscar offers a bevy of full design services, including project management, space planning, styling and more. PHOTO BY LAURIE PEREZ PHOTOGRAPHY
Interiors by Oscar offers a bevy of full design services, including project management, space planning, styling and more.

Interiors by Oscar offers an array of services—including seasonal home decorating, renovation, new construction and more. What can customers always expect when working with you on a project?

My design philosophy is that interiors should reflect the style and personality of their owner, not simply their designer. This collaborative approach has become my signature; I call it the “Interiors by Oscar Curated Look.” As an interior designer, it is my privilege to be able to create my clients’ ideal home, office or entertainment environments, and the goal is to deliver to my clients a welcoming space that is aligned with their aesthetic. By paying attention to and interpreting my client’s needs, I strive to design and see things from varying perspectives, not just my own.


From the initial house call to the procurement, installation and grand reveal, Oscar handles every aspect of the design process. PHOTO BY LAURIE PEREZ PHOTOGRAPHY
From the initial house call to the procurement, installation and grand reveal, Oscar handles every aspect of the design process.

How have you seen the Houston real estate and design markets change in the past few years?

If you want to see the biggest change in the Houston real estate and design markets, look up! Houston is going vertical! In Houston’s luxury real estate market, high-rise apartments and condos are hotter than ever. I have found that designing the interior of a high-rise apartment or condo can be one of the most exciting endeavors; however, without the right interior design, a high-rise condo can easily feel stuffy and sterile. Finding the right interior design experts, like Interiors by Oscar, to assist you will bring comfort and sophistication that you won’t find anywhere else. Isn’t it time to elevate your lifestyle—literally? After all, the sky’s the limit!


PHOTO BY LAURIE PEREZ PHOTOGRAPHY

What are some design trends that you’re excited to see this summer?

For me, the most exciting design trend for summer is introducing natural and organic materials in modern forms. Presently, I’m working on a high-rise project using a natural sisal rope chandelier by Fisher Wiseman Collection. The space will also showcase whimsical art by native Mexico City artist Celina Beaven, whose art exudes sophistication and is inspired by her colorful life in Ciudad De México!