House Beautiful’s ‘Next Wave’ List Honors Twin Cities Designers

Two Minnesota design firms earn national recognition as rising stars in interior design

May 19, 2025

For nearly three decades, House Beautiful’s annual “Next Wave” list has spotlighted emerging talents shaping the future of interior design. Each year, the national publication handpicks a group of designers that represents the best, brightest, and most creative minds in the industry.

This year, two Twin Cities designers—Julia Miller of Yond Interiors and Melissa Oholendt of Oho Interiors— earned a coveted place on the list. Both were recognized not only for their distinctive design perspectives but also for the mark they’re making within the national design scene.

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At Oho Interiors, that signature look is what Oholendt describes as “elevated cozy”—a refined twist on traditional English and European design. These spaces blend warmth and sophistication, capturing the kind of timelessness that feels both luxurious and lived in.

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Meanwhile, Yond Interiors is known for its thoughtful, character-driven work that honors the history and architecture of each home. Miller and her team take a curated, intentional approach to design—blending old and new in a way that feels deeply personal for each client.

Melissa Oholendt, founder and design principal of Oho Interiors

While both firms have received awards and national attention in the past, this recognition remains meaningful. “I’m honored beyond belief to be a part of this year’s Next Wave class,” says Oholendt. “Oho is a young firm led by me, a founder who did not follow a traditional design path but is carried by a team that is exceptional at what they do. The reality is, I would be nowhere without the Oho team, and I will never lose sight of the fact that every day they choose to show up, put their trust in me, create impossibly beautiful homes, and chase the big dreams I began Oho with in 2019.”

Julia Miller, creative director of Yond Interiors

Miller echoes the sentiment, stating, “Given that I didn’t grow up in the industry and chose this as my second career, I feel so very honored to receive this amazing award surrounded by some of the best designers across the nation. I pursued design from a place of passion and interest, never knowing where the road would lead. I love that the Minneapolis design community is represented by us and Oho Interiors!”