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The walking stick lesson: Why we do what we do at Art of Flooring

There's a moment I keep playing over in my mind: standing halfway up a narrow, slippery mountain path in the Philippines, gripping a simple stick for balance.

Beneath me was a steep drop into breathtaking rice terraces; above me was a trail that seemed to climb endlessly into the sky...

That stick, which I nearly dismissed at the start of the hike, became my lifeline - a small choice that made all the difference.

It all began at the start of the trail, just outside Banaue's UNESCO World Heritage rice terraces. Our guide, Jean, casually gestured to a bundle of walking sticks, offering them for a modest fee of 25 pesos. Laurence and I glanced at each other.

"It's just a stick," I thought. "Do we really need this?"

But not wanting to appear dismissive and feeling the pull to support a local business, we took one each.

As we climbed higher and the terrain became more challenging, those sticks transformed. They weren't just a branch from a local tree anymore; they became our balance on uneven ground, our stability on narrow ridges, and our confidence to keep moving forward. Without them, we wouldn't have made it through.

Reflecting on that trek, I realised the powerful symbolism of that walking stick.

It wasn't just a tool; it was an act of foresight, of anticipating what might lie ahead and equipping ourselves for the journey.

It reminded me so much of the work we do at Art of Flooring.

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Doing more than just selling carpets, bespoke wood flooring or luxury tiles

At Art of Flooring, our job isn't just about selling beautiful carpets, bespoke wood flooring or luxury vinyl tiles. It's about guiding our clients to make choices that will serve you well not just today but for years to come.

When Phil and Rob welcome you into our Cambridge showroom, they're not just showing you flooring samples or talking about colour schemes. They're thinking ahead:

  • Will this carpet work for your family's lifestyle?
  • Is the subfloor prepared to handle the demands of this type of flooring?
  • What underlay will extend the life of your carpet and enhance your comfort?

Sometimes, our recommendations might feel like "just a stick".

We suggest applying a damp-proofing product before laying your wood flooring, or we refuse to reuse old underlay or worn carpet grippers.

It's not because we're looking to increase the bill. It's because we know that skipping these steps can lead to more significant problems down the line - challenges that can undermine the beauty and longevity of your investment.

The bigger picture

Since founding Art of Flooring in 2017, we've seen it all. Most flooring retailers and installers take great pride in their work, but a few cut corners.

Some might lay brand-new carpet over an old underlay without a second thought or ignore moisture issues that can destroy a wood floor over time.

These shortcuts might save a few pounds upfront but can often lead to costly headaches later.

We've made it our mission to be different. We don't just sell you flooring; we sell peace of mind. And that means being honest about what your home needs to truly benefit from your investment.

This approach requires trust. We recommend something because it's the best option for you and your home.

And just like that walking stick, the value might not be immediately apparent. But halfway up the "journey" - when your flooring still looks beautiful, your home feels comfortable, and you're not worrying about repairs, you'll be glad you took it.

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Empowering you to ask the right questions

This isn't just about what we do; it's also about empowering you as a homeowner. When you're working with any tradesperson - whether it's a flooring expert, a builder or a landscaper - take the time to ask questions:

  • Why do you recommend this approach?
  • What will this product do for me in the long run?
  • How will it protect or enhance my home?

The best professionals will welcome these questions. They'll explain the value of their recommendations and help you make informed decisions.

And if someone doesn't offer you a "walking stick" - doesn't anticipate potential issues or offer solutions - it's worth asking why not.

Our commitment to you

I'm incredibly proud of the work Phil and Rob do every day in our showroom. Their knowledge, dedication and genuine care for our clients set Art of Flooring apart. But we're always looking for ways to improve - to be better guides, to anticipate more needs and to ensure you always have the tools to make the best choices for your home.

And as always, if you have any questions or need advice, don't hesitate toreach out to us. We're here to help you every step of the way - whether it's choosing the perfect floor or ensuring your flooring investment lasts a lifetime.

Warm regards,

Pierre de Wet

Owner, Art of Flooring

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