An Exclusive Interview with Janie Molster: Unveiling the Art of Interior Design

Good morning, design enthusiasts! We are absolutely thrilled to host the incredibly talented Janie Molster today, a celebrated name in the world of interior design. Janie has graced us with her time to answer our most pressing questions and share some invaluable insights and tips drawn from her illustrious career. Her work is a testament to timeless elegance and innovative vision, transforming spaces into works of art. It’s truly a privilege to have her with us, and we are excited for you to discover more about the woman behind some of the most beautiful interiors. Thank you for joining us, Janie, and for sharing your gorgeous work with our community.

The Genesis of a Design Career: Janie Molster’s Journey

How did you get started as a designer?

My path into interior design wasn’t a calculated decision but rather an organic evolution, one that seemed clearer to everyone around me than it was to myself. Initially, a friend took the initiative to have business cards printed for me, a gentle nudge that proved to be exactly what I needed. Once I truly immersed myself in the profession, everything clicked into place with crystal clarity. My obsession with my environment was always present; I recall countless nights spent in rental apartments, meticulously painting walls until they perfectly reflected the vision in my mind. This inherent passion truly blossomed when my husband and I purchased our first home. It gave me a larger canvas to experiment with, to truly “flex my design muscle.” Soon after, calls began coming in – requests for advice, for help, and for full-scale design projects. And just like that, what started as a personal passion transitioned into a thriving career. It’s a journey that underscores how sometimes, our true calling is evident to those closest to us long before we recognize it ourselves.

Unlocking Creativity: Where Janie Molster Finds Her Muse

Where do you get your inspiration?

The question of inspiration is fascinating because my answer genuinely evolves constantly. Just last night, I received a couple of new shelter magazines, and I find myself compelled to send a quick shout-out to my design industry peers – you all truly inspire me! I derive immense joy and creative energy from witnessing what other professionals are creating. Observing trends, understanding their evolution, and discerning how they might be interpreted or adapted is a crucial part of my process. While I may not embrace every single trend, the sheer act of observing creativity inherently fuels my own. It’s a powerful cycle: creativity breeds more creativity. I also find immense value in connecting with others in my field, maintaining an inspiration group where we can bounce ideas off each other, challenge perspectives, and collectively push the boundaries of design. This collaborative spirit and constant exposure to new ideas are fundamental to keeping my creative wellspring full and flowing.

Project Spotlights: A Designer’s Deepest Connections

Do you have a favorite project to date? Or a favorite type of project that tends to be your favorite?

It’s often said that a designer’s favorite project is the most recent one, and I find a lot of truth in that. There’s a bittersweet feeling when a project concludes; I begin to miss the frequent conversations, the collaborative problem-solving sessions, and the unique bond formed with clients. We affectionately call it “uncoupling,” and it can be quite challenging. Currently, I’m immersed in an extraordinary endeavor: designing a magnificent large lodge nestled in the Allegheny Mountains. What makes this project particularly special is its proximity to another property we’ve designed for the same clients – this is our fifth project with them! Naturally, this established history means we share a profound understanding of each other’s vision and preferences, which allows the design process to unfold seamlessly. The lodge itself will serve as a second home on their expansive property, featuring several bedrooms and generously sized entertaining spaces specifically designed for large gatherings. It’s envisioned almost as a mini-conference center, yet imbued with a distinct residential charm and comfort. We are incredibly fortunate to be collaborating with some truly amazing craftsmen on this project, whose skill and dedication are bringing our vision to life in spectacular fashion. Stay tuned, because this one is truly something special.

Mastering Space: Janie Molster’s Secrets to Expansive Living

What is your favorite tip for making small spaces feel larger?

When it comes to transforming small spaces to feel more expansive and open, my top advice is straightforward yet incredibly effective: use fewer, but larger pieces of furniture, and remember to edit, edit, edit. It’s a common misconception that small rooms necessitate small furniture. In reality, filling a compact space with numerous tiny tables, chairs, and decorative items only serves to create visual clutter and makes the room feel cramped and overwhelming. Instead, opting for a few substantial pieces—a generously sized sofa, a single large armchair, or a statement console—can actually ground the space and create a sense of scale and importance. These larger elements provide definition without fragmentation. Equally crucial is the strategic use of rugs. I always recommend using large, room-size rugs that extend to or even slightly under the perimeter of the space. This design technique visually unifies the room, eliminating disjointed floor areas and tricking the eye into perceiving a larger, more cohesive footprint. By minimizing visual breaks and maximizing key elements, you can create an illusion of grandeur and openness, making even the coziest room feel wonderfully spacious.

Navigating the Hurdles: Challenges in Modern Design

What is the biggest challenge you face as a designer?

The most significant challenge I currently encounter in the design industry revolves around the scarcity of skilled labor. The specialized trades that are absolutely essential to realizing bespoke, high-quality interior design are becoming increasingly difficult to find. From the delicate art of restoring antique furnishings to the precise craftsmanship required for custom window treatments, these trades represent the backbone of exceptional design. There’s a growing need for talented individuals in various fields, and we are constantly looking to expand our team. For instance, we are always hiring conservationists who possess the intricate skills to repair and preserve antique furnishings and art, ensuring these timeless pieces retain their beauty and historical integrity. Similarly, seamstresses capable of producing couture-quality window dressings, custom upholsterers who can revive and reimagine furniture, and decorative painters who can bring unique textures and finishes to walls and ceilings are indispensable. The loss of these invaluable crafts would be a tremendous detriment to the design world, and fostering new talent in these areas is crucial for maintaining the level of artistry and quality our clients expect and deserve.

Beyond Blueprints: A Designer’s Most Profound Achievement

What do you consider your biggest accomplishment to date?

Without a doubt, my biggest accomplishment to date is mothering five children. If I could impart one piece of wisdom to other designers, especially those navigating the demanding throes of parenting, it would be this: always choose family first. My career has been incredibly blessed to have successfully weathered the storms of several years where my attention was necessarily intermittent. There were periods when I felt I was barely keeping my foot in the door of the competitive design world, struggling to balance professional aspirations with family responsibilities. Looking back, the ability to sustain my career through those challenging times, to consistently return to my passion even after periods of necessary pause, is what I consider my most significant achievement. It’s not about the awards or the high-profile projects; it’s about the resilience, the unwavering commitment, and the strength to nurture both a thriving family and a fulfilling career. So, yes, keeping my foot in the door through all of life’s seasons is truly my biggest accomplishment.

A Glimpse into Greatness: Designers Who Inspire Janie Molster

Are there any designers that particularly inspire you?

Absolutely, I have a deep admiration for several designers whose work continuously captivates and inspires me. I am particularly enamored with all of the upholstery designs by John Saladino. His pieces were truly innovative from day one, pushing boundaries and setting new standards, yet they possess an incredible timelessness; they never feel dated. His ability to create furniture that remains fresh and relevant through decades is a testament to his genius. Another designer whose work I profoundly admire is Susan Ferrier, especially her contributions with McAlpine. While her aesthetic often carries a moody, slightly edgy quality, what I find most compelling is how she fully embraces femininity within that framework. She doesn’t shy away from “pretty”; instead, she takes traditional notions of beauty and ignites them with a unique, powerful flair. Both Saladino and Ferrier demonstrate a masterful understanding of form, function, and aesthetic, each in their distinctive way, and their contributions to the design world are a constant source of creative motivation for me.

Janie Molster’s Quick-Fire Favorites

Thank you so much for stopping by today, Janie! It has been an absolute pleasure having you share your wisdom and passion with our readers. We are endlessly inspired by your beautiful designs and insightful perspectives. Your generosity in sharing your journey and tips is truly appreciated by our entire community!

Dive Deeper into Inspiring Reads!

To continue your journey into captivating stories and beautiful settings, explore these recommended reads:

Looking for the perfect summer escape in a book? Publications like Southern Living, Entertainment Weekly, Us Weekly, and Betches all highly recommend you make room for my new novel, The Southern Side of Paradise, in your beach or pool bag. Have you picked up your copy yet?

If you haven’t yet embarked on the beloved Peachtree Bluff Series, now is the ideal moment! The inaugural book in the series, Slightly South of Simple, is now available in mass market paperback and has proudly landed at #14 on the bestseller list! Don’t miss out—find your copy at your favorite bookstore, local grocery store, drugstore, or retail store.

Upcoming Tour Dates & Events

July 19: Browseabout Books, Rehobeth Beach, DE

July 19: Bethany Beach Books, Bethany Beach, DE, 7pm – 9pm

July 20: Turn the Page Bookstore with Nora Roberts, Boonsboro, MD, 11am – 1pm

August 2: The Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library, Cashiers, NC, 3pm

August 2: The Chattooga Club, Cashiers, NC, 6pm

August 3: Hudson Public Library, Highlands, NC, 2:00pm

August 8: Figure Eight Island Yacht Club Author Series, Figure Eight, NC

August 10: East Hampton Library Authors’ Night, East Hampton, NY, 5pm – 7:30pm

FOR MORE INSPIRATION, connect with us on INSTAGRAM and PINTEREST. You can also revisit our top posts from previous years: discover the TOP TEN POSTS OF 2017 HERE and explore the TOP TEN POSTS OF 2018 HERE!