Why Minneapolis Is the New U.S. Design Capital

Sponsored by Blu Dot

The same names usually hog the spotlight when it comes to American design capitals: New York, Los Angeles, Miami, maybe Chicago. But Minneapolis is carving out its own place on the map with an energy that feels layered and inventive.

Spend five minutes with the work coming out of this city and you’ll start to notice a throughline: designers who know the magic’s in the mix, layering quality pieces with a dash of the unexpected to keep a room from feeling too serious. And fittingly, it’s no coincidence that Minneapolis is also home to Blu Dot, a brand born on the same belief that great design should be both thoughtful and a little delightful.

Let’s take a closer look at how this city’s designers are putting that spirit into practice, and why Minneapolis might just be the most exciting design capital right now.

(Hero Image) Design by Prospect Refuge, Photography by Chris Mottalini

Designers Defining the Minneapolis Look

There’s a particular edge to the Minneapolis design scene, a kind of “wrong shoe theory” (the fashion equivalent to the unexpected red theory) that runs through so much of the work here. It’s less about playing by the rules and more about trusting the offbeat detail or creative spark that keeps things interesting.

Here are four designers showing us exactly how that spirit comes to life.

Anne McDonald Design

Grounded in the belief that homes should reflect both their history and the people who live in them, Anne McDonald’s work blends classical design practices with artful materials and unexpected details. Her Vibrant Mid Century Split Level project in Edina showcases this philosophy in action: a 1955 home recaptured through a gut renovation, layered with just the right amount of vintage, bold splashes of color, and textures that feel curious and alive.

→ Listen to Anne McDonald’s episode on the Interior Collective podcast.

Shown Above: Punk Table Lamp by Blu Dot

Design by Anne McDonald Design, Photography by Michael P. H. Clifford

Yond Interiors

Yond’s work is all about creating rooms that envelop you, with custom pieces, layered textures, and colors that carry real weight. Shown below is their Cherry Creek Federalist project in Denver, which makes the case beautifully. Rooms drenched in rich shades and bespoke pieces are grounded by a confident mix of finishes that make you want to stay a while.

→ Listen to Yond Interiors’ episode on the Interior Collective podcast.

Design by Yond Interiors, Photography by Malissa Mabey

Prospect Refuge

Victoria Sass of Prospect Refuge has a gift for finding soul in the smallest spaces. Her rooms carry patina and history. Then she’ll add one move that makes you sit up straighter. Take this snug office dipped in Benjamin Moore’s India Yellow and wrapped in marbled Lee Jofa paper. A coral rug and Blu Dot’s Racer desk chair in tomato bring the unexpected punch. That same instinct, leaning into odd pairings and overlooked corners, runs through all her work.

→ Listen to Prospect Refuge’s episode on the Interior Collective podcast.

Design by Prospect Refuge, Photography by Chris Mottalini

Heather Peterson Design

Known as a self-described “master mixer,” Heather Peterson excels at balancing classic details with a touch of eccentricity. That sensibility comes through in her client work, but it’s her own Minneapolis home where the philosophy really shines. Here, she gave herself permission to go bolder. Playful wallpapers, color-drenched rooms, and layered textiles that speak to joy as much as style. It’s a true expression of her “wrong shoe” approach. Refined at the foundation, always with one unexpected twist that makes the whole thing sing.

→ Listen to Heather Peterson’s episode on the Interior Collective podcast.

Shown Above: Neat Chair by Blu Dot

Design by Heather Peterson, Photography by Josh Grubbs

Designs With Purpose and Personality

And then, of course, there’s Blu Dot. The brand was born in Minneapolis by three college friends who wanted great design without the fuss. Since then, Blu Dot has stood for pieces that feel smart and modern. They’re also surprisingly easy to live with. The furniture balances function and beauty. A sofa anchors a family room. A statement side table changes the energy of a corner. Every piece is designed with purpose, rooted in Minneapolis, and built to last.

Here’s where it gets even better: Blu Dot just reimagined their trade program, and it’s a real level-up for interior designers. Same great designs, but with a few new perks that actually make a difference, including:

• Double the discount — 20% off, no minimums, every single order.
• New order flexibility — work with your rep, shop online, or order in-store; it all runs through the same streamlined account.
• Flexible payments + early access to new releases and limited editions.
• It’s designed for how you work, where you work, and what you need (plus a few extras you’ll be glad they thought of).

And because Minneapolis does nothing halfway, Blu Dot is celebrating with a sweepstakes. Sign up for a new trade account and follow them on Instagram, and you’ll be entered to win $5,000 in Blu Dot credit.

Want a dose of Minneapolis energy? Borrow from the city’s playbook. The best spaces, like the best lives, always leave room for a little quirk.