What do designers want? This was the question that Rich ard Brown, the owner of Designer Floors asked me. I could explain what my clients needed to function on a daily basis, but I never really considered what I needed to do my job more efficiently. The ideas started flowing; now the problem was were we able to incorporate all these concepts in the 2700 square foot space!

After considerable research we soon realized that most designers questioned did not have the space for an extensive library or even a place to meet with clients and/or manufacturers representatives. They also felt like they were behind on current trends and education. Designer Floors wanted to ensure that a multitude of flooring options was displayed in an innovative manner. They also wanted a space flexible enough to hold functions with seating comfortable for large groups and for smaller, more intimate gatherings. And they wanted to make sure that the environment was considered in the overall design.

We started with the obvious; the floor. It was sectioned into two types; flooring that was daring and adventuresome, but easily modified and flooring that was subdued and anchored the space. Three large circles placed at the two far corners and the center of the studio consisting of bamboo, cork, and wood did just that; creating definition for the conference area, the central, technology friendly reception area and the “green” area. The remaining floor was divided into squares that incorporate carpet tile, linoleum, recycled leather and different types of recycled rubber flooring. The goal was to be able to change the squares on a whim. We also showcased different types of wall base and proved that “flooring” isn't just for floors. The linoleum in the kitchen was coved up the wall to create an easily cleanable wainscot as was the tufted Plynyl , which travels up the face of the reception desk . The Designer Floors Studio's logo also placed flooring on the wall; it is fabricated from three inch circular Amtico scraps. Cabinets were designed the length of the space to house carpet books, doors were incorporated to store carpet samples and open display areas showcased the latest designs. The restroom is…well, simply black and white.

Next we tackled education. It seems that today the real question on designer minds is what really makes a product “green.” In our search for environmental flooring options we came across many finishes with innovative and exciting uses. We discovered Kirei board, which is constructed entirely from reclaimed agriculture fiber and incorporated it into our design as all table surfaces. 3-Form, an environmentally friendly polyester resin accompanies the Plynyl at the reception desk to create a translucent transaction surface. (We even created the reception work surface out of remaining linoleum and leftover Plynyl was cut into mats given away at the open house!) 3-form was also the topic at the first seminar held at DF Studio which comfortably accommodated over 60 people. Designer Floors have also started a library of sorts in the green area containing White Papers, USGBS and LEEDS information as well as books about the environment. Along with a wireless network and a laptop available for everyone's use, information is at their fingertips.

Designer Floors Studio was competed in November 2004 with a tenant improvement construction cost of $40,000 and a fixtures and furnishings budget of $20,000. ($22.22 s.f.) Products generously donated by Interface, Shaw, Bentley Prince Street, Forbo and 3-Form came to a combined total of $6,500.