ABOUT US
San Antonio’s Premier Supplier Established 1982
Our Team
Jim Ecrette
Meet Jim Ecrette
What is your background? I am a San Antonio native and graduated from Texas A&M with a BS in Economics, and a minor in Bio Med. I spent seven years doing international sales in the Oil and gas industry before my three decades in the flooring industry.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? Our industry is fast paced and ever changing. I love working with clients and helping them successfully achieve their dream results. We sometimes receive exciting projects that require physics, science, and chemistry knowledge, and that’s fun for me.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative world? I’ve enjoyed 33 years working in many aspects of our industry. Including commercial textile maintenance, commercial flooring installation, commercial carpet manufacturing rep, V.P. flooring distributor, and managing To-The-Trade Flooring Company for 17 years. I would say I’ve been blessed to participate in both commercial and high-end boutique categories.
What is a hobby, a passion, or something you invest your time in when not at work? I really enjoy golf and anything that gets me outdoors and a nice glass of wine by the fireplace is very appealing.
Favorite color? My favorite color is the one my client likes the best: “If you like it…I love it!” (Don’t worry, I won’t let them make a poor choice.)
If you make it to our showroom, you will more than likely see one of my family members and DMI’s mascot “Gus”. Gus is a black Labrador who would love to greet you when you come.
Alan Petlin
Meet Alan Petlin
What is your background? I began my career at 12 years old making rugs out of discontinued samples at my family’s floor covering business. I was paid only if they sold – so I was straight commission from the start. I learned every aspect of the business including working with installers, sales, and management. While obtaining my business degree from The University of Texas at Austin, I continued to work as a commissioned flooring salesman, enabling me to pay my way through college.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? This career has provided me with the ideal combination of creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional environments for my clients. Providing a consultative experience for our clientele has always been the goal in my companies. I knew Barbara Gilmartin her entire career and was fortunate to purchase Design Materials from her in 2018 along with Jim. Continuing the tradition of bringing San Antonio, South Texas, and the entire country the finest flooring materials available.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative worlds? 30 years ago I started my business catering to the specialty flooring market, bringing in products from 25 countries, specializing in serving designers, architects, and individuals.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? I am passionate about vintage automobiles, especially my red (favorite color) 1968 Mustang convertible. I also get great satisfaction as a community volunteer.
Favorite color? Red
I love to travel with my wife, Kristy, and our daughters Kelly and Ali.
Cecilia Holden
Meet Cecilia Holden
What is your background? I have 25 years in sales and management with Design Materials. My background also includes 15 years in the CPA business.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? I was drawn into this industry by my sister, Barbara Gilmartin. Being in a beautiful award- winning showroom enabled me to meet my customer’s needs and desires. I received fulfillment by creating inspiring award-winning homes for the enjoyment of my customers.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world? I have a total of 50 years in the sales and creative world.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? Travel, adventures to casinos, and playing poker
Favorite color? I love all colors and combinations of colors.
I enjoy my daughter Connie and my son Ray. I have one grandson, Raymond Jr. I’m very fortunate to have a wonderful personal life living in Austin, TX.
Victor Barba
Meet Victor Barba
What is your background? I have a bachelor’s degree in Family Consumer Science, Interior Design. I worked for the last 22 years in an LA showroom as Sales/ design associate.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here?
It was destiny in a way, I took this as job at first but then saw the potential of being under an industry where my skills and talent could flourish and allow me to enjoy what I do. The freedom of creation, and the opportunity to meet people has keep me in this industry.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative world? Over 22 years
What is a hobby, a passion, or something you invest your time in when not at work?
Travel, family, tennis and cooking
Favorite color? Definitely Blue and green.
Joseph Pacheco
Meet Joseph Pacheco
What is your background? I started in the Kitchen Design Industry when I was 20 years old and been in it off and on for the last 18 years. Met Alan Petlin around 2012-2013 and he introduced me to the flooring industry. Worked with Alan Petlin Gourmet Floors for about 5-6 years and then moved to Orlando, FL and went back to the kitchen & bath industry. Alan and I have remained in contact all this time and I thought coming back to San Antonio to work for this great company was the best decision for my family and I.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? What’s kept me in this industry hands down have been people/relationships. I love interacting with people. One thing I love about this company is that the clients you work with eventually become friends. The trust they put on you to make their renovations dreams come to fruition is the driving force to excellent customer service. Its truly fulfilling to see clients happy and satisfied with the finish product.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative worlds? Approximately 18 years of experience
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? My Family!! That’s my passion. Not to be cliché but I truly enjoy being a dad! I love doing life with my wife and kids, introducing them to new foods, experiences, culture etc. That’s what I do outside of work. I’m a big sports fan. I love watching sports.
Favorite color I don’t have a favorite color because I change my mind every time. My daughter has been trying to get me to answer that question for years.
Kelly Jansma
Meet Kelly Jansma
What is your background? My love of home design began at an early age. By the time I was in high school it had become my passion. I studied interior design in college, graduating with a degree in Marketing. Since then, I have gained experience in a broad range of areas from initial construction management to finish out design.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? I love creating functional spaces for my clients to enjoy. Homes are such an important part of life. It is exciting to me to help clients make their visions become reality. Every project is a new adventure. The variety of styles and tastes make my job fulfilling.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world(s)? I have used my design skills in several industries for more than 20 years. I worked with a construction company, and also in retail, decorating finished homes. Tile, wood, and carpet are a logical extension of what I have always done. It is great to use my two decades of experience to help our customers.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? I enjoy creative activities – painting, knitting, and cooking – and I travel as much as I can. I spend a lot of time with my family at a nearby lake doing puzzles, playing cards, and enjoying the water and the outdoors.
As a “lake person” all my life, green and blue have always been two of my favorites.
Christie Appleby
Meet Christie Appleby
What is your background? From a young age, I developed an eye for colors, textures and design. My professional journey started with Alan Petlin at the age of 19. I went on to pursue a rigorous education in architecture and interior design. Between my professional experience and educational experiences, I’ve honed in my skills, expanded my knowledge to become better equipped with a keen understanding of the interior design world.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here?
My journey with this company has become more than a job. It has become a remarkable career that has spanned over two decades. With each project, we can design a space that tells a unique story. I love to see these projects from start to finish. Hearing a customer’s enthusiasm when the job is complete is such a rewarding feeling.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative world? 24 yrs and counting
What is a hobby, a passion, or something you invest your time in when not at work?
Spending time with my husband, two sons and our fur baby is the joy of my life. We can be found cruising on our boat at Canyon Lake wakeboarding, tubing or enjoying watching a sunset. I also enjoy taking long leisurely walks through my neighborhood, or riding scooters and playing basketball with my sons. From outdoors to indoors, you can find me in the kitchen baking cookies and cakes, which I enjoy decorating. I also love planning parties for family and friends.
Favorite color? Navy Blue, Pink, and Emerald Green
Marie Jacoby
Meet Marie Jacoby
What is your background? I am a proud native of San Antonio. I attended Edison High School & have had the privilege to raise my 3 beautiful daughters in this wonderful city. I am honored to be called “Honey” by my 2 precious granddaughters.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here?
I enjoy the process of watching projects unfold. The exploration of new materials and trends, and then ultimately witnessing people’s visions come to life. It’s incredible to see a few samples on a table one day and an amazing space built out in the blink of an eye.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative worlds? I have over 40 years in the industry, waiting on customers, placing orders, making sure installation is complete. I now primarily contributed to the financial side, specializing in accounts receivable & payables.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? My I love experiencing live music. Whether in small restaurant patios, or large shows. My true happy place is being near the water. I will take advantage of any and every opportunity to enjoy it.
Favorite color: Yellow reminds me of the sun and Pink is a girlie color.
Kelly ‘KP’ Petlin Beaty
Meet Kelly ‘KP’ Petlin Beaty
Brenda Ramos
Meet Brenda Ramos
What is your background? I finished school, left Texas, and traveled to California. I lived there for 13 years. I worked as a Nurse Assistant and enjoyed doing that. Then life introduced me to my wonderful husband who was in the Navy 22 years. Once we decided to retire from the Navy, we also moved back to Texas from Florida.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? This is where I started in the tile business in 2008 with Interceramic. From there I worked with Daltile for 10 years . I really enjoy what I do in this industry. I love working with people.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world(s)? About 13 years.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? I love swimming with our little girl. I enjoy walking, reading, and gardening. Traveling is my number one favorite hobby!
Favorite color? Sea Blue, Yellow , Pink
My husband Gil is a General Manager for an Indian Native Corporation. We have three grown wonderful young men, and a 5 year old daughter that keeps us very Blessed.
Isaiah Bankhead
Meet Isaiah Bankhead
What is your background?
I graduated from Mac Arthur High school & San Antonio College with my associates in Accounting.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here?
What drew me to this industry was learning a new trade. I’ve always liked a “ hands on “ experience and putting a smile on the customer’s face. Given the opportunity to work with Alan Petlin Gourmet Floors and Design Materials, I knew I couldn’t pass up the chance. I immediately saw the passion and care they have for not only their work, but for their clients and employees.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world?
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work?
Favorite color?
Joe Sillas
Meet Joe Sillas
What is your background? When I was young, I started helping my uncle and my father with roofing and carpentry, and took a great interest in learning the craft. I also learned that doing it yourself saves money!
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? Before flooring, I was in high end furniture retail sales and managed a warehouse. I wanted a change from retail furniture, and a friend brought me into the flooring world. What has kept me here is the ever-changing techniques and the evolution of the products. Tiles, marbles, glass, installs are only getting better.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world? I’ve been in the field for 15 years.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? Working on my cars and on side jobs – as I enjoy helping others. I also enjoy watching my Spurs and Cowboys, and spending time with the family.
Favorite color? Blue is my favorite color.
I’ve been married for 24 years, and I have 3 daughters and 5 grand boys. We get to spend time together on special occasions and holidays, as everyone is busy with work and school.
Jim Ecrette
Meet Jim Ecrette
What is your background? I am a San Antonio native and graduated from Texas A&M with a BS in Economics, and a minor in Bio Med. I spent seven years doing international sales in the Oil and gas industry before my three decades in the flooring industry.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? Our industry is fast paced and ever changing. I love working with clients and helping them successfully achieve their dream results. We sometimes receive exciting projects that require physics, science, and chemistry knowledge, and that’s fun for me.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative world? I’ve enjoyed 33 years working in many aspects of our industry. Including commercial textile maintenance, commercial flooring installation, commercial carpet manufacturing rep, V.P. flooring distributor, and managing To-The-Trade Flooring Company for 17 years. I would say I’ve been blessed to participate in both commercial and high-end boutique categories.
What is a hobby, a passion, or something you invest your time in when not at work? I really enjoy golf and anything that gets me outdoors and a nice glass of wine by the fireplace is very appealing.
Favorite color? My favorite color is the one my client likes the best: “If you like it…I love it!” (Don’t worry, I won’t let them make a poor choice.)
If you make it to our showroom, you will more than likely see one of my family members and DMI’s mascot “Gus”. Gus is a black Labrador who would love to greet you when you come.
Alan Petlin
Meet Alan Petlin
What is your background? I began my career at 12 years old making rugs out of discontinued samples at my family’s floor covering business. I was paid only if they sold – so I was straight commission from the start. I learned every aspect of the business including working with installers, sales, and management. While obtaining my business degree from The University of Texas at Austin, I continued to work as a commissioned flooring salesman, enabling me to pay my way through college.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? This career has provided me with the ideal combination of creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional environments for my clients. Providing a consultative experience for our clientele has always been the goal in my companies. I knew Barbara Gilmartin her entire career and was fortunate to purchase Design Materials from her in 2018 along with Jim. Continuing the tradition of bringing San Antonio, South Texas, and the entire country the finest flooring materials available.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative worlds? 30 years ago I started my business catering to the specialty flooring market, bringing in products from 25 countries, specializing in serving designers, architects, and individuals.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? I am passionate about vintage automobiles, especially my red (favorite color) 1968 Mustang convertible. I also get great satisfaction as a community volunteer.
Favorite color? Red
I love to travel with my wife, Kristy, and our daughters Kelly and Ali.
Cecilia Holden
Meet Cecilia Holden
What is your background? I have 25 years in sales and management with Design Materials. My background also includes 15 years in the CPA business.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? I was drawn into this industry by my sister, Barbara Gilmartin. Being in a beautiful award- winning showroom enabled me to meet my customer’s needs and desires. I received fulfillment by creating inspiring award-winning homes for the enjoyment of my customers.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world? I have a total of 50 years in the sales and creative world.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? Travel, adventures to casinos, and playing poker
Favorite color? I love all colors and combinations of colors.
I enjoy my daughter Connie and my son Ray. I have one grandson, Raymond Jr. I’m very fortunate to have a wonderful personal life living in Austin, TX.
Victor Barba
Meet Victor Barba
What is your background? I have a bachelor’s degree in Family Consumer Science, Interior Design. I worked for the last 22 years in an LA showroom as Sales/ design associate.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here?
It was destiny in a way, I took this as job at first but then saw the potential of being under an industry where my skills and talent could flourish and allow me to enjoy what I do. The freedom of creation, and the opportunity to meet people has keep me in this industry.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative world? Over 22 years
What is a hobby, a passion, or something you invest your time in when not at work?
Travel, family, tennis and cooking
Favorite color? Definitely Blue and green.
Joseph Pacheco
Meet Joseph Pacheco
What is your background? I started in the Kitchen Design Industry when I was 20 years old and been in it off and on for the last 18 years. Met Alan Petlin around 2012-2013 and he introduced me to the flooring industry. Worked with Alan Petlin Gourmet Floors for about 5-6 years and then moved to Orlando, FL and went back to the kitchen & bath industry. Alan and I have remained in contact all this time and I thought coming back to San Antonio to work for this great company was the best decision for my family and I.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? What’s kept me in this industry hands down have been people/relationships. I love interacting with people. One thing I love about this company is that the clients you work with eventually become friends. The trust they put on you to make their renovations dreams come to fruition is the driving force to excellent customer service. Its truly fulfilling to see clients happy and satisfied with the finish product.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative worlds? Approximately 18 years of experience
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? My Family!! That’s my passion. Not to be cliché but I truly enjoy being a dad! I love doing life with my wife and kids, introducing them to new foods, experiences, culture etc. That’s what I do outside of work. I’m a big sports fan. I love watching sports.
Favorite color I don’t have a favorite color because I change my mind every time. My daughter has been trying to get me to answer that question for years.
Kelly Jansma
Meet Kelly Jansma
What is your background? My love of home design began at an early age. By the time I was in high school it had become my passion. I studied interior design in college, graduating with a degree in Marketing. Since then, I have gained experience in a broad range of areas from initial construction management to finish out design.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? I love creating functional spaces for my clients to enjoy. Homes are such an important part of life. It is exciting to me to help clients make their visions become reality. Every project is a new adventure. The variety of styles and tastes make my job fulfilling.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world(s)? I have used my design skills in several industries for more than 20 years. I worked with a construction company, and also in retail, decorating finished homes. Tile, wood, and carpet are a logical extension of what I have always done. It is great to use my two decades of experience to help our customers.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? I enjoy creative activities – painting, knitting, and cooking – and I travel as much as I can. I spend a lot of time with my family at a nearby lake doing puzzles, playing cards, and enjoying the water and the outdoors.
As a “lake person” all my life, green and blue have always been two of my favorites.
Christie Appleby
Meet Christie Appleby
What is your background? From a young age, I developed an eye for colors, textures and design. My professional journey started with Alan Petlin at the age of 19. I went on to pursue a rigorous education in architecture and interior design. Between my professional experience and educational experiences, I’ve honed in my skills, expanded my knowledge to become better equipped with a keen understanding of the interior design world.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here?
My journey with this company has become more than a job. It has become a remarkable career that has spanned over two decades. With each project, we can design a space that tells a unique story. I love to see these projects from start to finish. Hearing a customer’s enthusiasm when the job is complete is such a rewarding feeling.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative world? 24 yrs and counting
What is a hobby, a passion, or something you invest your time in when not at work?
Spending time with my husband, two sons and our fur baby is the joy of my life. We can be found cruising on our boat at Canyon Lake wakeboarding, tubing or enjoying watching a sunset. I also enjoy taking long leisurely walks through my neighborhood, or riding scooters and playing basketball with my sons. From outdoors to indoors, you can find me in the kitchen baking cookies and cakes, which I enjoy decorating. I also love planning parties for family and friends.
Favorite color? Navy Blue, Pink, and Emerald Green
Marie Jacoby
Meet Marie Jacoby
What is your background? I am a proud native of San Antonio. I attended Edison High School & have had the privilege to raise my 3 beautiful daughters in this wonderful city. I am honored to be called “Honey” by my 2 precious granddaughters.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here?
I enjoy the process of watching projects unfold. The exploration of new materials and trends, and then ultimately witnessing people’s visions come to life. It’s incredible to see a few samples on a table one day and an amazing space built out in the blink of an eye.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, and creative worlds? I have over 40 years in the industry, waiting on customers, placing orders, making sure installation is complete. I now primarily contributed to the financial side, specializing in accounts receivable & payables.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? My I love experiencing live music. Whether in small restaurant patios, or large shows. My true happy place is being near the water. I will take advantage of any and every opportunity to enjoy it.
Favorite color: Yellow reminds me of the sun and Pink is a girlie color.
Kelly ‘KP’ Petlin Beaty
Meet Kelly ‘KP’ Petlin Beaty
Brenda Ramos
Meet Brenda Ramos
What is your background? I finished school, left Texas, and traveled to California. I lived there for 13 years. I worked as a Nurse Assistant and enjoyed doing that. Then life introduced me to my wonderful husband who was in the Navy 22 years. Once we decided to retire from the Navy, we also moved back to Texas from Florida.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? This is where I started in the tile business in 2008 with Interceramic. From there I worked with Daltile for 10 years . I really enjoy what I do in this industry. I love working with people.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world(s)? About 13 years.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? I love swimming with our little girl. I enjoy walking, reading, and gardening. Traveling is my number one favorite hobby!
Favorite color? Sea Blue, Yellow , Pink
My husband Gil is a General Manager for an Indian Native Corporation. We have three grown wonderful young men, and a 5 year old daughter that keeps us very Blessed.
Isaiah Bankhead
Meet Isaiah Bankhead
What is your background?
I graduated from Mac Arthur High school & San Antonio College with my associates in Accounting.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here?
What drew me to this industry was learning a new trade. I’ve always liked a “ hands on “ experience and putting a smile on the customer’s face. Given the opportunity to work with Alan Petlin Gourmet Floors and Design Materials, I knew I couldn’t pass up the chance. I immediately saw the passion and care they have for not only their work, but for their clients and employees.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world?
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work?
Favorite color?
Joe Sillas
Meet Joe Sillas
What is your background? When I was young, I started helping my uncle and my father with roofing and carpentry, and took a great interest in learning the craft. I also learned that doing it yourself saves money!
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? Before flooring, I was in high end furniture retail sales and managed a warehouse. I wanted a change from retail furniture, and a friend brought me into the flooring world. What has kept me here is the ever-changing techniques and the evolution of the products. Tiles, marbles, glass, installs are only getting better.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world? I’ve been in the field for 15 years.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? Working on my cars and on side jobs – as I enjoy helping others. I also enjoy watching my Spurs and Cowboys, and spending time with the family.
Favorite color? Blue is my favorite color.
I’ve been married for 24 years, and I have 3 daughters and 5 grand boys. We get to spend time together on special occasions and holidays, as everyone is busy with work and school.