Coley Home Spotlight: Molly Basile

Meet Molly! Based in Charleston, SC, Molly designs amazing traditional, yet fresh spaces. We love how she masterfully uses pattern and color to create beautiful spaces that are both chic and practical. Read on to learn all about Molly!

Tell us about yourself and the incredible design firm you have built?

Molly Basile Interiors is a full-service boutique residential design firm. I started my design business about 6 years ago in Charleston, SC. Our projects range from furnishings, renovations, or new construction where we work with clients on all stages of design from start to finish. When I’m not in the studio or on a site visit, I’m typically enjoying time with my husband, our two children and friends.

How would you describe your aesthetic?

Fresh traditional with a mix of colors, textures and personal touches. I love mixing in modern accessories, artwork, or lighting with classic textiles. Being by the beach a lot of our projects tend to incorporate coastal elements; blues and greens are neutrals in my book.

You recently chose a pair of Lindy Swivels in Como, Kelly Green with a Como, Robin's Egg contrast welt. Walk us through the design process of this room.

We were honored to be selected to design a bedroom in the Charleston Symphony Designer Showhouse this past spring. We wanted the guest bedroom to reflect our traditional style and approach to design. We started with the leading fabric that was a blue and green floral stripe and chose to paint the room from floor to ceiling in a soft blue hue to create a relaxing and comforting space. Your Kelly Green and Como fabrics were the perfect complement to the fabric throughout the space. The green chairs added a fun pop in front of the traditional fireplace and the blue welt was a nice, thoughtful detail. Adding a trim or contrast piping is a fun way to add layers and visual interest throughout a room.

Get the Look

The Lindy Swivel

If you had to pick one, what is your favorite project to date?

I’m honestly not sure that I can pick a favorite, we have had so many fun projects with amazing clients over the last few years! My husband and I renovated our 1950’s colonial style home about 5 years ago and that was a labor of love – one that I learned so much from.

Favorite areas to splurge when designing a home, and favorite places to save?

I love to splurge on custom window treatments and custom rugs when designing a home since they can serve as the base layer for a design. Areas I mix in some savings tend to be accessories, small occasional tables or small case goods and even some pretty ready-made throw pillows.

Favorite paint color at the moment?

Borrowed Light by Farrow and Ball - this was the color we painted the Showhouse bedroom. It’s just the right amount of color while being the perfect subtle backdrop. It’s the prettiest light blue without feeling baby blue.

Wallpaper you are dying to use in a project?

De Gournay in a dining room or entry is at the top of my list! I just heard Hannah Cecil Gurney, Director of De Gournay, speak and hearing about the design process and spirit behind their work was inspiring.

Tips for making a home look beautiful but also family friendly?

I tend to use durable upholstery fabrics and area rugs and add pattern and interest through pillows, drapery trim and accessories. Performance fabrics are good for little ones and the pattern and color help hide a little wear and tear. When styling, I love to create little vignettes or moments throughout a home to add personal interest and tell a story. Incorporating family photos or even a little one’s recent art project can make a home inviting and a true reflection of those who live there.

Go-to places for design inspiration?

When working on new projects, I still find inspiration and beautiful spaces on Instagram and Pinterest. But ultimately traveling and exploring new places brings so much inspiration!

What do you love most about living in Charleston?

There is truly so much to love about Charleston! The charm, history, food and the beach of course! But one thing not everyone may realize is that Charleston has such a sense of community and is incredibly family friendly. It’s a wonderful place to raise children while also growing a business.

What’s your current favorite restaurant? The food scene in Charleston is so good!

We are spoiled by so many choices! We have recently been loving Lowland downtown. I suggest grabbing a drink and oysters at The Quinte next door before dinner. Another tried and true - Obstinate Daughter on Sullivan’s Island has been my favorite since moving here in 2015. 

Favorite coffee table book?

Favorite place to travel?

Italy! But I’m very excited for a big trip this month to Spain and Bordeaux, France. I love exploring and discovering new places - the people, culture and food!