Company founders Todd Smith and Che’ Coleman first crossed paths while attending Southern University A & M college. During one semester break, the two carpooled on a ride home to California, where they were both from. The 30 or so hour ride gave them a lot of time to discuss a broad rage of topics. However, the majority of the trip was dominated by discussions of a floor company.
Che’ was the lead technician at Hardwood Flooring company in Pasadena California prior to attending college. So he thoroughly know the technical aspects of wood floor sanding, refinishing and installation and had a true appreciation for the craft. During the ride Che’ vividly described the process, equipment required, and opportunities with providing this type of service in Baton Rouge. The timing was perfect. Todd was in transition from a business he started while in college and was enchanted about the idea of going into business with Che, combining their respective technical and strategic experience.
On that trip Che’ talked about his floor experiences and the overall satisfaction it gave him when he would install or refinish a beautiful floor, ultimately striving to produce the “perfect floor”. Todd pictured uniformed men, logo’d trucks, and systemizing Che’s process, to yield consistent results and They both talked about what delivering the ultimate customer experience looked like to them. By the end of this epic journey, Che’ and Todd crafted the “California Hardwood Floors”vision where producing the ultimate product serviced in the highest way equals “a tradition of craftsmanship”.
In 1996, powered by that vision, they established California Hardwood Floors and set out on a mission to educate and serve Greater Baton Rouge and surrounding areas. From the initial consultation to the final walk through, the mission was to create the ultimate process. After successfully implementing their proprietary process in Baton Rouge, and establishing themselves as forerunners in that area. Che’ took the “California Floors Experience” to the west coast and started California Hardwood Floors – Los Angeles.
By partnering with Bona to become Certified Bona Craftsman and members of the National Wood Flooring Association, they continue hone their craft ensuring that California Hardwood Floors will continue to provide the best quality products, with industry proven processes, delivered with the highest standards.
