When it comes to choosing the perfect floor covering for your home, it can be tough to know just where to start. Speaking with a flooring expert is a great place to begin your search because you can get all of the knowledge and advice you need at the very beginning. But we had an even better idea!
To give you some ideas and inspiration on what flooring may be best for your home, we’re interviewing a few of our International Design Guild store owners. As International Design Guild members, they are part of the nation’s largest floor covering buying group, have a lifetime of experience, and are proud owners of deluxe showrooms that have become the premier resource for homeowners, designers, and architects around the country. They’re giving their opinions on their favorite flooring based on what they have in their home and explaining why they love it. What a treat!
Meet Our IDG Showroom Owners:
Matt Pfeiffer
Northern Flooring & Interiors
Lake Orion, Michigan
Style of Home: Rustic Contemporary
Favorite Floor: European Walnut wide plank hardwood floor with hard wax and oil natural finish.
Location: Throughout main floor except bathrooms.
Why do you love it? “I love the natural look and the durability of these floors. We live in the woods and have an active family with kids and a big dog, and I can’t think of a more beautiful and forgiving floor that looks better with wear, tear, and time than a wide planked walnut.”
What’s the backstory? “In 2008, we lost our home to a house fire. While it was a very difficult time, we were given the opportunity to rebuild on the same foundation with materials that matched our lifestyle. The European Walnut was a floor I never dreamed I’d be able to make my own, and being in the flooring industry, I was not only able to budget for it, but use it in a way that made it the focal point of our home.”
How do you maintain it? “We suction vacuum only day to day, and wash it with a combo of water mixed with concentrated hardwood floor cleaner when needed. We also rewax it about once a year to replenish the finish and keep its natural patina.”
How do I get it? “Visit your IDG Showroom and ask for a European Walnut floor with a low gloss, natural finish and texture.”
Alan Petlin
Alan Petlin Gourmet Floors
San Antonio, Texas
Style of home: Arts & Crafts, built in 1924
Favorite floor: Solid homogeneous cork 12”x24” running bond pattern with 1”x12” stainless steel accent bars between every other tile.
Location: Kitchen, hallways, playroom, bedrooms
Why do you love it? “The cork floors are the perfect complement to the Longleaf Heart Pine floors that are original to the home, and located in our living room, dining room, and study. They are comfortable, naturally beautiful with rich color variation, cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and easy to maintain. The cork also minimizes breakage when things are dropped.”
What’s the backstory? “The cork flooring in the kitchen, hall, and playroom was actually prefinished in a dark brown, but it didn’t look good in our house, so we installed the cork upside down and finished it on-site. The backsides of many tiles had serial numbers stamped on them that did not come completely off with sanding, but we embraced the look because we think it adds a unique industrial touch which we love.”
How do you maintain it? “We maintain the floors with Bona cleaner.”
How do I get it? “I recommend these floors to anyone who will listen and can appreciate natural beauty. I always tell clients that I prefer things that ‘wear in’ as opposed to things that ‘wear out.’ Clients should ask their IDG showroom for cork floors, and if interested in Arts & Crafts style wood, antique Longleaf Heart Pine floors.”
Manny Gonzalez
The Carpet Boutique
Miami, Florida
Style of home: Ranch
Favorite floor: Wide plank natural American Black Walnut wood flooring.
Location: Throughout the house.
Why do you love it? “I love the graining of the Black Walnut. The smooth subtle lines blend perfectly from deep browns to light blondes, creating a gorgeous color. For me, it’s the cleanest looking wood around.”
What’s the backstory? “I first installed this flooring for a client and once I saw the finished product I knew I had to incorporate it in my home remodel in some way.”
How do you maintain it? “I clean my floor with a natural oil cleaner and oil it every 2 years. I would definitely recommend this floor to anyone looking for a sleek modern look.”
How do I get it? “Find an IDG showroom and ask for an American Black Walnut flooring. You won’t regret it!”
Inspired to bring your design ideas to life? Our IDG Showrooms are located throughout the US and Canada, and our experts are ready to give you a personalized journey every step of the way.
To find your nearest IDG Showroom, start here: https://www.dabbiericollection.com/showroomslist