Exploring Signature by Shelley Alexanian: A Legacy of Quality Flooring & Home Design
For nearly 100 years, Alexanian Carpet & Flooring has been a trusted name in flooring and home design. Still family-owned, the company offers a wide range of flooring, from hardwood and engineered hardwood to luxury vinyl, broadloom, and area rugs.
For nearly 100 years, Alexanian Carpet & Flooring has been a trusted name in flooring and home design.
Still family-owned, the company offers a wide range of flooring, from hardwood and engineered hardwood to luxury vinyl, broadloom, and area rugs.
Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting their Signature by Shelley Alexanian showroom, where I was greeted by Sydney Alexanian, a fourth-generation member of the family.
Her enthusiasm and deep knowledge of flooring options made it clear that this company is more than just a business—it’s a passion passed down through generations.
A Diverse Range of Flooring Choices
Walking through the showroom, I was struck by the sheer variety of flooring options available.
Signature by Shelley offers a selection that caters to different aesthetics, lifestyles, and budgets, including hardwood, engineered hardwood, vinyl, broadloom, and area rugs.
The showroom is thoughtfully laid out, making it easy to visualize how each option could work in a home setting.
Hardwood & Engineered Hardwood: What to Consider
Hardwood is a timeless choice that adds warmth and elegance to any home. Signature’s collection includes a variety of species, from cherrywood and hickory to maple and oak.
Sydney pointed out that European oak is particularly sought after right now for its durability and sophisticated grain patterns.
However, choosing hardwood isn’t just about looks.
Sydney explained that different types of wood have different levels of durability and maintenance requirements.
“The most important thing I ask clients is: How are you going to live on your floors? Do you have kids? Pets? An active household? If you want something that can handle a lot of wear and tear, hickory and maple are great choices,” she shared.
Because of Canada’s fluctuating climate, engineered hardwood has become a top choice for many homeowners.
It expands and contracts less than solid hardwood, making it more resistant to seasonal changes.
Signature offers a selection of Canadian-manufactured engineered hardwood, including stylish options like herringbone and chevron patterns, which add a refined touch to any space.
Luxury Vinyl: A Practical Alternative
As I moved through the showroom, Sydney showed me their luxury vinyl collection, and I was surprised by how realistic it looked.
Vinyl flooring has evolved dramatically over the years, with high-quality finishes that mimic the appearance of hardwood and stone but offer greater durability and water resistance.
“Luxury vinyl is waterproof, scratch-resistant, and incredibly easy to maintain,” Sydney explained. “It’s perfect for basements, kitchens, and even bedrooms—anywhere you need durability without sacrificing style.”
Signature even offers a herringbone vinyl option, which is rare and a great way to achieve a high-end aesthetic at a lower cost.
Their quick-ship program ensures that select vinyl options are readily available, so homeowners don’t have to wait weeks to complete their projects.
Area Rugs & Broadloom Carpets: More Than Just Soft Flooring
One of my favorite sections of the showroom was the area rug and broadloom carpet collection.
There’s something incredibly inviting about a beautiful rug anchoring a space, and Signature has a carefully curated selection, ranging from handwoven rugs from Pakistan to contemporary abstract designs.
Sydney shared a fascinating detail about wool rugs that I hadn’t known before:
“Wool is the most durable and sustainable fiber you can choose. It naturally repels stains, purifies the air, and retains its shape for years. Many people assume wool carpets are high-maintenance, but they’re actually incredibly resilient.”
For those looking to customize their home, wall-to-wall broadloom carpets and custom stair runners are available in a variety of materials, colours, and patterns. It’s a great way to add warmth and texture while personalizing a space.
Beyond Flooring: Window Coverings & Tile Options
As we continued through the showroom, Sydney pointed out that Signature by Shelley isn’t just about flooring.
They also provide custom window coverings, including California shutters, roller blinds, Roman shades, and motorized Hunter Douglas options that can be seamlessly integrated with smart home systems.
“We work with clients to ensure their window coverings complement their space. Whether you need full privacy, filtered light, or a completely automated system, we have options to fit every need,” Sydney noted.
For those renovating kitchens or bathrooms, their selection of porcelain and marble tiles offers stylish and durable choices. I was particularly drawn to a beautiful slate option, which Sydney mentioned has been gaining popularity for modern bathrooms and kitchens.
The Signature Experience: More Than Just a Store
What stood out to me most during my visit was the personalized approach that Signature by Shelley Alexanian takes with each customer. Their team doesn’t just sell flooring—they guide homeowners through the decision-making process, ensuring they choose the best product for their lifestyle.
They offer:
- Personalized consultations to help select the best flooring or home design solution
- In-home sample testing, so customers can see materials in their own lighting
- Trade discounts for builders and designers
Sydney even shared a fun anecdote about a client who wanted every step of their staircase to feature a different colour from the Missoni zigzag collection. The end result was stunning—a unique and eye-catching staircase that perfectly suited the homeowner’s personality.
Visit Their Showroom
For anyone considering new flooring or home design updates, I highly recommend visiting Signature by Shelley Alexanian at 81 Ronald Avenue, Toronto (Castlefield & Dufferin area).
Their team is knowledgeable, approachable, and eager to help you find the perfect solution for your space.
For more information, you can contact Sydney and her team at sydney@signaturebyshelley.com.
With nearly a century of experience, Signature by Shelley Alexanian continues to offer high-quality flooring and home design solutions.
Whether you’re looking for hardwood elegance, durable vinyl, or a custom rug, their team is there to guide you every step of the way.
Rylie C.
