Putting the customer first
Harvie Hurd follows the business philosophy to treat everyone with respect.
1 of 5GW Floors’ Owner/Manager/President, Harvie Hurd. — Photo courtesy Harvie Hurd
2 of 5A commercial project by Gordon Wall Floorcoverings. — Photo courtesy Harvie Hurd
3 of 5Gordon Wall Floorcoverings in Trail, BC celebrates 54 years in business this year. — Photo courtesy Harvie Hurd
4 of 5Bathroom in the new Thompson Lerose Offices in the Kootenay Savings Credit Union building in Trail, BC. — Photo courtesy Harvie Hurd
5 of 5A fun commercial project by Gordon Wall Floorcoverings in Trail, BC. — Photo courtesy Harvie Hurd
For over half a century, Gordon Wall Floorcoverings has been offering its top-notch expertise to clients in and around the Trail area. From design and concept to product recommendation and installation, GW Floors’ owner/manager and president Harvie Hurd leads his team of specialists by example.
Hurd got his feet wet in the business after a major life change.
“In the 1980s I quit my job, moved to Vancouver and started in commission sales and quickly realized that it was definitely the career for me,” he said. “I have been working in this industry for 28 years I have owned GW Floors since October of 1990.”
Following the business philosophy to treat everyone with respect and show every client products on both ends of the price scale while still considering their needs, Hurd focuses on offering one of his most valuable assets: time.
“I enjoy the aspect of helping a client find that perfect flooring or paint for their home,” he said. “It is not always about the cost. The flooring industry has become more about fashion and design, especially in residential, but it’s also in commercial now too. More and more commercial projects are about the design, such as colour, pattern and texture, than in the past.”
GW Floors carries a wide array of hardwood, ceramic tile, linoleum, carpet, laminate, vinyl flooring and planks, as well as blinds from multiple suppliers and Cloverdale paint for both residential and commercial projects.
“We strive to always bring the newest additions and most competitive prices in flooring to the Kootenays,” Hurd said. “I feel the biggest difference between us and other companies is that we are a non-stocking dealer. We are free to offer any one of thousands of samples to our clients. We do not try to steer them into something just because it may be in stock.”
54 years in business
Heading into its 54th year in business, GW Floors is established with a solid reputation and long list of clients in a growing community.
“I have learned that each day can be a challenge, and to succeed we must rise above any situation and find solutions,” said Hurd. “I also look forward each day to meeting and interacting with new people. I am excited about the potential for the city of Trail, with the beautiful river views.”
Hurd and his wife Tracy have been together for 11 years and have six adult children between them. He enjoys camping in the summer with the kids, kayaking, gardening for relaxation, cross country skiing, a little woodwork and pottery.
“The favourite part of my day is the morning, as it gives you a chance to start each day fresh and prepare for the day ahead,” said Hurd. “I am a people person so I enjoy the one-on-one interaction I have with others. My wife Tracy is my inspiration. She always looks on the bright side of every issue. I love my job and enjoy going to work each day.”
Hurd is a member of the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital Health Foundation board and is a past director and president of the Trail and District Chamber of Commerce.
GW Floors has two full-time employees and three to five flooring crews at any one time.