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Melissa Oholendt’s journey into the world of interior design began in the most unexpected place: her childhood bedroom. It was there that her imagination was sparked by the whimsical Ralph Lauren Polo bears stitched into her quilted bedspread, prompting her to creatively select the perfect navy paint color to complement her surroundings. However, despite this early interest, a well-meaning professor encouraged her to pursue a more ‘practical’ path, leading her to set aside her passion and earn a degree in finance. Yet, the call of creativity proved too strong to resist, and in 2019, she founded Oho Interiors from her home in Minneapolis, Minnesota, eventually expanding her services to Colorado and beyond.
Early challenges and growth
Starting a new business, especially in the midst of a global pandemic, was akin to drinking from a firehose, as Oholendt puts it. With no formal education in design and no prior experience in a design firm, she faced a steep learning curve. Each project became a lesson in itself, allowing her to grow and adapt in real time. The initial hustle and energy of those years were both exhilarating and overwhelming. By 2022, she had made her first hire, marking a significant turning point for Oho Interiors. The following year saw her team expand to four, and soon after to seven, enabling her to focus more on the creative direction of the firm.
A unique design philosophy
Oho Interiors is celebrated for its fresh take on traditional design, drawing heavily from English and European influences. Oholendt describes her approach as a delightful mix of elements: the bold color palettes of English decor, the warmth of Belgian materials, and the elegant curves found in French and Spanish designs. She envisions spaces that invite relaxation and comfort, where guests can kick off their shoes, sip wine, and sink into a cozy sofa, yet still be ready for an impromptu dinner party. Her mantra, ‘Elevated Cozy,’ encapsulates this vision perfectly.
The beauty of timeless pieces
One of Oholendt’s defining traits is her love for color, tempered with an understanding of the power of a neutral palette. Imagine deep mulberry walls embracing a room, complemented by a leather ottoman that harmonizes beautifully with chintz drapery. Yet, to truly make a space captivating, Oholendt incorporates pieces that age gracefully over time. With a ‘nothing is too precious’ mentality, she ensures that each project matures into something even more beautiful as it lives its life. This philosophy resonates deeply with her clients, who appreciate the stories and memories that each piece can embody.
Stepping outside comfort zones
In her creative process, Oholendt encourages her design teams to push the boundaries of their comfort zones. One memorable project involved a client who desired a playful bathroom design featuring retro tile. Oholendt and her team embraced the challenge, selecting a vibrant pink tile that contrasted with classic white and black accents. The result was a stunning campaign-style custom vanity in dark walnut, paired with polished nickel fixtures and built-in medicine cabinets that exuded charm and sophistication.
Collaboration and inspiration
When asked about her dream collaborations, Oholendt revealed her admiration for Casa Gusto, a brand known for its bold patterns and artistic flair. She envisions creating a collection of striking upholstery pieces and hand-painted furniture that would beautifully complement her design ethos. Additionally, she finds inspiration in the work of artisans like Ellen from Great Florals, whose delft-inspired pottery pieces have captured her heart. Their previous collaborations have enriched her projects, adding layers of creativity and charm.
The future of Oho Interiors
As Oho Interiors continues to grow, Oholendt remains dedicated to her craft and the vision behind her designs. She believes in creating spaces that not only reflect her clients’ personalities but also enhance their experiences within their homes. With an unwavering commitment to quality and a passion for innovative design, Melissa Oholendt is not just shaping interiors; she is crafting lifestyles that embrace beauty, comfort, and individuality.