I have the privilege of engaging with some of the most creative minds in various industries. In a recent episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Misty Molloy, the creative force behind Co-Creative Interiors. Our conversation revolved around home renovations, design, and the importance of setting realistic budgets. Here's a recap of our enlightening discussion.

Meet Misty Molloy: A Creative Force in Interior Design

Misty Molloy is no stranger to the world of design. She launched her career in 2019, just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Despite the challenges, she has persevered and continues to make her mark in the industry. Her expertise lies in unlocking the hidden potential of homes through design, and she has a knack for fitting furniture into any space, new or existing.

Setting Realistic Budgets for Home Renovations

One of the key topics we discussed was the importance of setting realistic budgets for home renovations. Misty emphasized the need for transparency and providing clients with all the necessary information to make informed decisions. She highlighted the hidden costs that people often overlook, such as issues behind walls, shipping, and delivery.

Misty suggests starting with a "lipstick update" approach, focusing on smaller updates like painting cabinetry, replacing backsplash, and upgrading appliances and lighting. This approach allows homeowners to phase out renovations or do "lipstick updates" until they can afford a full-blown renovation.

The Art of Furnishing with Style

Furnishing a room from scratch can be a daunting task, especially when you consider the cost. Misty believes in transparency and provides a complete breakdown of the necessary pieces for a space. She advises homeowners to do some research on average costs for items like sofas and countertops, so they are mentally prepared when putting all the numbers together.

When it comes to getting quotes, Misty explains that material costs and labor costs can vary. It's important to consider functionality and quality when comparing quotes. Sometimes, a higher quote may include material costs, making it more comprehensive than a lower quote that only covers labor.

Unlocking a Property's Potential

Misty has a unique ability to help homebuyers see a property's potential through her creative vision. She uses e-designers and services to create basic floor plans that give a sense of the space's potential. She emphasizes the importance of blowing up the floor plan to a larger size, using programs like Canva, to provide a more realistic sense of the space.

Stepping Outside the "Gray and White Box"

Our conversation also touched on the topic of color in home design. Misty encourages individuals to consider their personal preferences rather than following trends. She suggests looking at historic homes with vibrant colors as inspiration for timeless and classic design choices. Changing the color of trim can be a simple way to add a fun and unconventional touch to a space.

Wallpaper: A Revival

Misty acknowledges that some people have reservations about wallpaper due to past experiences. She advises working with professionals who can properly prepare the walls and choose the right type of wallpaper. She also cautions against using peel and stick wallpaper, as it can be challenging to work with and may damage the walls.

Starting the Workday Right

Misty shared her tips for starting the workday for maximum productivity. She emphasizes the importance of planning ahead the night before, writing down tasks that need to be accomplished or were left unfinished. This practice clears her mind and sets her up for a productive day ahead.

Living Authentically

When asked about her guiding mantra or philosophy, Misty talks about being true to her brand. She believes in using what you love and being what you love. This philosophy helps shape all of her decisions and allows her to live authentically.

Unlocking Hidden Potential: Misty's Upcoming E-Book

Our episode concluded with a mention of Misty's upcoming e-book, "Unlocking Hidden Potential." The book provides a detailed guide for both realtors and homeowners, breaking down the topics discussed in the episode. It also includes helpful tools, such as a budget calculator, to assist with starting the design process. 

For those interested in following Misty on social media or seeking her design services, her contact information is readily available. Her expertise and creative vision are sure to inspire and guide you in your home renovation journey.

Also check out Misty's Creations, Tips, & Design Inspirations on her website: https://cocreativeinteriors.com​