2024 40 Under 40: Crystal Monahan

Crystal Monahan took an early entrepreneurial journey in her career, and it’s led to leadership in professional associations, nonprofits and student mentorships.

After pioneering the interior design department at Bates & Associates, she co-founded Avant Interiors and then broke out on her own with InSite Interior Planning & Design in 2018.

Her firm most notably the past year designed the headquarters for four companies and office-sharing workspaces, says Monahan, 36.

She’s continued in her entrepreneurial ways. Monahan recently initiated the nonprofit Ozarks Design Collective and serves as its president with the aim of building the design industry through education and resources, as well as networking and events.

Monahan’s also vice president of Springfield Design Association and secretary in the planning committee for the Salute to Design & Construction awards ceremony.

What about your job would shock people? Interior designing is so much more than decorating. It is a complex industry that requires a vast knowledge of architecture, engineering and technology. 

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Fear stands for False Evidence Appearing Real. Never let fear hold you back.

Favorite local food/drink order? Boiled crawfish from the 417FishGuy Chris Perkins and a cold Parkside Pineapple draft from 4 by 4 Brewing Co.