Send a text In this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, I sit down with Andria Cowan Molyneaux, founder and principal designer of ACM Designs, for a deeply honest conversation about what it truly takes to build a design business that lasts. Andria is a designer who leads with integrity, intention, and quiet confidence. She’s built a respected, enduring firm grounded in exceptional client service, thoughtful design, and a commitment to lifelong learning. She’s also the current president of the Decorators & Designers Association of Canada, where she continues to champion community and professionalism within our industry. This episode is all about resilience, not the hustle-for-the-sake-of-hustle kind, but the steady, grounded resilience that comes from experience, education, and connection. We talk about Andria’s journey into design, her specialization in aging in place, how she’s navigated decades of market shifts, and why community has played such a pivotal role in her success. And I’ll share this openly, after we stopped recording, Andria and I stayed on the call for another hour, continuing the conversation about our businesses, shared experiences, and personal connection points. That’s the magic of community. That’s where resilience is reinforced. And it’s exactly why this podcast exists. This is an open, thoughtful, and genuinely fun conversation, full of wisdom, perspective, and encouragement for designers at every stage of business. In just one focused hour, we’ll dive into whatever you need most—pricing strategies, client management, attracting high-end clients or building repeat business. You’ll get clarity, strategy, and expert advice based on my 27+ years of running a thriving, seven-figure design firm. This is your chance to get real answers to the questions you’ve been dying to ask—from someone who’s actually been there. Book your session as you need it—no strings attached. Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces Laura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces Thornton Design I @thorntondesign
