The experts at the award-winning Tile Town break it down for you.
1. Its staff are legit experts
There’s a surprising amount to think of when you’re buying tile, from the look, to the technical elements. “Sometimes people don’t know whether a tile is for walls or floors, or whether they can have them as a backsplash or in a steam room,” says Mark Gantly, manager of the Richmond store. “All our staff are experts who can advise on everything from colour to the best kind of tile that won’t feel cold on an en-suite floor.”
2. They have a new online portal to help with design
The team at Tile Town encourage people to bring swatches and paint samples when choosing tile to ensure you get a good fit for your space. Now it’s even easier since they have introduced Town Square (see Mytiletown.ca), which allows you to upload your visuals to an online account and then share them with your advisor in store.
3. Customer service is their thing
“We want to improve customers’ quality of life, not just sell them tile,” says owner Mike Scardina. The new store at Bridgeport road will help with this – it’s flooded with natural light, spacious, with a coffee station and customers are encouraged to take their time to shop. There are also Cantonese and Mandarin speakers on staff.
4. They’re a part of the community
Mike Scardina was born and raised in Richmond and believes in giving back to the community. Tile Town is involved in the Salmon Festival Parade and fundraises for charities like KidSport. The store also employs people with disabilities in order to help them gain independence. “It’s important for employees to know that they’re working for an organization that cares about people,” says Scardina.
5. They know all the trends
“Colour is back,” says Gantly. “For the longest time everything was very muted. Now people aren’t afraid to experiment a bit more. There are also more interesting shapes – hexagon and lantern – and textures, like crackle finishes that make things look very high end. These are timeless looks so your space won’t look outdated in a few years.”
Tile Town has relocated to 120-12591 Bridgeport Road. Find out more at Mytiletown.ca, or call 604-273-6721.
