Sponsored: On the couch with with George Molnar and Louie

We sat down with George Molnar, the visionary and founder behind Bays Joinery, a company that has been impressively operating for over thirty years and has earned itself top honours both in the region and nationally. With a dedicated team of over fifty members, they bring joinery projects to life.

What’s the secret to your success?
Success comes down to a mix of respect, gratitude, and always being there when needed. Ever since a young age, I loved to design and build things and was very inquisitive. I completed my joinery apprenticeship at 21, and purchased the small business I was working for – that’s when the Bays Joinery journey began. Today I am recognised as an NKBA Elite Designer, standing as a distinguished industry leader with a very strong and experienced design and manufacturing team behind me. I am grateful for our team, as well as my supportive family who have been with me every step of the way.

You were a footballer in your youth. What lessons did you take from your sport into your career?
Football is the greatest game in the world. I started playing when I was three and still love the game. I reached the highest level in New Zealand playing in the National League which taught me the value of teamwork and dedication. I learnt I had to work very hard to make the team to stay there. I have transferred these skills into my daily business including building a winning team. I still love a challenge and working under pressure.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?
My creative journey begins with an open client conversation. Solutions and final designs percolate and evolve as I go through the design process which is a real collaboration between the client and designer, a dynamic I love.

As the creative and business head of your company, how do you balance your time between the two?
I prioritise constantly between overseeing operations and design creativity. I’m up against designers who only design and the bottom line isn’t their job – HR, paying bills, and running a manufacturing team, when you’re the owner you never forget. Business itself is creative and to do well you have to think creatively. I feel proud of the culture I have built here and have an amazing team who back me every day. One thing remains steadfast – our clients come first. A lesson I grasped early on is that the most valuable client is the one right in front of you.

What’s next for you and Bays Joinery?
I still have so many ideas and am constantly challenging myself, my brand, and my sense of style to make each project the best it can be. My dedication to our clients’ projects and unwavering passion for this industry remains as intense as ever. I am looking forward to further sharing my knowledge and growing our team.
We thrive on the excitement of meeting new clients, immersing ourselves in fresh plans and projects. We are committed to maintaining our industry-leading status and ensure that every client’s experience is nothing short of exceptional. I am very proud of our stunning design studios and welcome you all to visit and get inspired. We look forward to seeing you soon.

baysjoinery.co.nz