San Juan Interiors opens Eastsound showroom

San Juan Interiors is rolling out the carpet on Orcas Island.

The Friday Harbor-based business has opened a new showroom in Eastsound, offering a range of coverings for the home and office, including flooring, natural stone, tile, countertops, and window shades.

“I see an opportunity to expand in the San Juan County community and continue to offer competitive prices and professional services,” said owner Gabe Herda, who purchased the business in 2003 from Michel and Ralph Brown. Michel has continued to serve as a lead designer for the operation.

San Juan Interiors serves all the major islands, and as Orcas comprises a good portion of their business, Herda felt it was the right time to open an Eastsound showroom. It is located in the former Windermere building on Main Street (in front of the Islands’ Sounder office).

After remodeling and painting, it has what Gabe describes as a “Zen” look: bamboo floors, warm wall colors, and stone in the entry way. Gabe and his wife Jennifer will continue to run the Friday Harbor store, and Denise Ireland will manage the Eastsound shop.

The Herdas have two children: a daughter, Sidney, who is five; and a son, Sam, two. Gabe spends most of his free time with their kids, but he also golfs and collects vintage mid-century modern furniture and antique motorcycles.

Gabe says he thrives on the creativity of the covering business.

“I like helping people create their dream home,” he said. “The whole process of working with home owners, builders, architects, and designers allows me to indulge my love of color and design.”

Contact Islands Sounder Publisher, Editor Colleen Armstrong at editor@islandssounder.com or 1-360-376-4500.

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