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.
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.
Brad Ballance
Meet Brad Ballance
What is your background? I’m originally born in Southern California, but now call San Antonio home. I spent years in food distribution, hospitality, personal training & membership sales before entering the flooring and building industry.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? Being able to build, everlasting business relationships with customers and make a true difference. I have had the privilege to work on all types of projects, primarily focused on Custom Home Builders, Pool builders and Remodelers.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world? I have 12 years in flooring industry. Starting in the warehouse, working my way up through Custom Service eventually landing in Sales where I thrive! I understand the importance of teamwork and Customer Service to accomplish goals.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? I love spending time with my Wife and Son. Investing in my property and making memories with Family.
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.
Maggie Doyle
Meet Maggie Doyle
What is your background? I studied Fine Art at Texas State University and obtained my MFA from The School of Visual Arts in New York City. The plan was to return to Texas after grad school, but I ended up staying in NYC for 12 years. I never thought I would move back to my childhood home of San Antonio, but here I am!
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? I love to problem solve and find items that my clients fall in love with, especially when it is something that they had not considered. I like that each project I approach is different, and I enjoy the process of bringing an idea to life.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world? I have been enamored with art and design my whole life. I have been in a creative role for over 25 years with my own design company, and worked for a high-end modern furniture company in NYC. I fell into tile by accident in 2015 and find excitement in the design possibilities tile offers. With the addition of carpet and wood to DMI, I have more inspirational materials to work with!
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? I try to carve out time in my Dignowity Hill art studio, where I work on new design ideas and my personal art. I love travelling to new cities, where I spend most of my time in museums, art galleries, and seeking out vegan restaurants.
Favorite color? I do not have a favorite because I like all colors for different reasons.
My husband David is an artist and musician, who champions and challenges me creatively. We have a wonderful girl, Fiona, who loves taking tile and carpet samples to design new floors and walls for her doll houses. We are a family of animal lovers and have two cats that are not cuddly, Cleo and Luna, which led us to adopt Nora during Covid, a Carolina Dog mix, who loves snuggles and long daily walks.
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
Meet Marie
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.
Isaiah
Meet Isaiah
What is your background?
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here?
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?
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.
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.
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.
Jesse Ramos
Meet Jesse Ramos
What is your background? My dad was a bricklayer and from a young age, on the weekends when I was not in school, he would take me with him to help out. He instilled in me the value of hard work.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? Every day is a learning experience. I like my coworkers and I get along with everyone.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world? I started in the flooring business back in California in the early 90’s, and continued on this path when I returned to San Antonio. It’s now been 35 years working in this industry.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? I like all sports and seeing my grandson play ball.
Favorite color? Blue.
I like traveling with my wife of 38 years. One of our favorite places is Vegas.
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.
Geanna Takajasi
Meet Geanna Takajasi
What is your background?
I was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. I’m currently finishing up my Bachelor’s degree in Family and Consumer Sciences in Interior Design at Texas State University.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? love that the design world is constantly evolving, and every project is different. I also appreciate being around like-minded individuals that share the same love for design. It’s inspiring to work in an environment with people that have an incredible work ethic and various tastes in design.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world?
I have several years of experience in customer service and I’m just getting started in the design world. I’m excited to continue learning and growing in the industry and soak up all the knowledge Design Materials has to offer.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work?
When I have down time, I like to do yoga, take my dog out for walks, check out new restaurants and hang out with friends and family.
Maggie Doyle
Meet Maggie Doyle
What is your background? I studied Fine Art at Texas State University and obtained my MFA from The School of Visual Arts in New York City. The plan was to return to Texas after grad school, but I ended up staying in NYC for 12 years. I never thought I would move back to my childhood home of San Antonio, but here I am!
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? I love to problem solve and find items that my clients fall in love with, especially when it is something that they had not considered. I like that each project I approach is different, and I enjoy the process of bringing an idea to life.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world? I have been enamored with art and design my whole life. I have been in a creative role for over 25 years with my own design company, and worked for a high-end modern furniture company in NYC. I fell into tile by accident in 2015 and find excitement in the design possibilities tile offers. With the addition of carpet and wood to DMI, I have more inspirational materials to work with!
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? I try to carve out time in my Dignowity Hill art studio, where I work on new design ideas and my personal art. I love travelling to new cities, where I spend most of my time in museums, art galleries, and seeking out vegan restaurants.
Favorite color? I do not have a favorite because I like all colors for different reasons.
My husband David is an artist and musician, who champions and challenges me creatively. We have a wonderful girl, Fiona, who loves taking tile and carpet samples to design new floors and walls for her doll houses. We are a family of animal lovers and have two cats that are not cuddly, Cleo and Luna, which led us to adopt Nora during Covid, a Carolina Dog mix, who loves snuggles and long daily walks.
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.
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.
Gaby Gamez
Meet Gaby Gamez
What is your background? Creativity has been my driving force from an early age. As a child I would decorate my own room and move furniture around, loved putting together my outfits, and setting up tables for celebrations, or even just for the daily meals. I majored in graphic design, got a taste of the advertising world in NYC, and then took my passion for the arts into the mental health and wellness field as an art therapist.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? A blank canvas always seems intimidating, yet is an invitation to a world of possibilities. That keeps my curiosity awake and alive, and I enjoy walking into a place that stimulates my senses as I surround myself with colors and textures. Along with the creative side, I enjoy learning how things work and are made. Surrounding myself with a variety of materials is a constant learning experience!
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world? Though I have been in the creative world for almost 20 years, I am new to this line of business. In July of 2020 DMI gave me the opportunity to explore an unknown world, and I have been enjoying the journey ever since.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? Nature! Going on hikes and finding lakes or rivers to explore in a kayak is one of my favorite things to do. I enjoy being of service to the community through various causes that are close to my heart.
Favorite color? I can’t just choose one, I need them ALL. Just like mood changes depending on circumstances, my connection to color varies, but I’ve noticed that blue tones are a constant.
I grew up in a border town in Mexico and moved to Monterrey (Mexico) for my college years. Then I headed to Mexico City for one year, and NYC for seven and a half. Now, along with Buddy, my German Shepherd, we have made San Antonio our home.
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.
Sabina Varney
Meet Sabina Varney
What is your background? I have an interior design and industrial arts degree from Texas State University, former SWT. I worked in commercial and residential design for 10 years.
What is it about this industry that drew you or has kept you here? I love colors and patterns, and I enjoy pairing them with different materials. I like being creative using various colors and materials.
How many years of experience do you have in the flooring, sales, retail, creative world? I have many years of sales experience selling furniture and accessories. I also sold draperies and carpeting while working for a design firm. I like working in sales, interacting with the customers, and helping them to create their own special place.
What is a hobby, a passion, something you invest your time in when not at work? My happy place is a yarn shop full of bright colored yarns in varying hues. I enjoy Knitting with yarns in different colors and textures. I get great satisfaction from creating items using different patterns and colors together. My passion for color is carried over into my watercolor and acrylic painting.
Favorite color? Cobalt Blue
I spent my younger years in Germany speaking German with my family members. German is my native language and when I started school in the USA, I learned English. I grew up as a” military brat” stationed in various places in Germany and the USA. I had an opportunity to make many friends speaking both languages.