What markets or design centers do you attend regularly? 
I visit The Decorative Center and the Houston Design Center, here in Houston. I also have attended High Point and Las Vegas.
Do you have a favorite source for buying your rugs?
I have a couple. I love Surya and Company C.
Do you shop online at all, use catalogs, or deal directly with salesmen?
Yes – all of the above. It really depends on the project, but I would say that I shop online and from catalogs 90% of the time. It’s easy to get samples when you need them and they ship out right away.
Do you have a favorite style or fiber of area rug?
Personally, I gravitate to more contemporary rugs. I really like large graphic patterns and bold colors. My favorite fiber is wool. I just love how lush and beautiful wool rugs can be. Especially a silk/wool combination.
Do current fashion trends or styles enter your decision of buying rugs for your clients?
Honestly, I don’t really think about that when I’m designing a room. I just try to find the right rug that will work for the space. Of course, I am probably influenced by trends somewhat based on things like popular colors and patterns of the moment.
Do you have any suggestions as to how the industry can serve designers better?
In my personal experience, I think as a whole, the industry is doing a pretty good job. One of my favorite rug resources, Surya, has a great website, amazing catalogs and an excellent customer service department. Samples and orders ship out quickly and they have a great return policy. It also doesn’t hurt that their prices are very good!
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