Karndean Designflooring has teamed up with Nebraska Furniture Mart (NFM) to install a high‑visibility end‑cap in the Kansas City showroom, offering shoppers a visual way to match flooring with interior style.
Interactive showcase highlights three design aesthetics
The custom installation measures roughly 9.5 by 7.5 feet and features illuminated moodboards for each of Karndean’s three curated aesthetics. Each board is paired with twelve free‑sample swatches, totaling 36 different luxury vinyl options. A 24‑inch touchscreen runs the Karndean Floorstyle visualizer, letting visitors place a chosen pattern into a virtual room setting.
Julie Thomas, senior retail channel manager for Karndean, says the tool “encourages homeowners to think about their new floor holistically, in the context of interior design that reflects their style and personality.” Shoppers who recognize a particular aesthetic can explore the related floor recommendations, while those unsure of their taste can use the boards for inspiration.
According to Thomas, the retailer’s staff received hands‑on training on how to guide customers through the aesthetic selections. “Karndean Design Aesthetics are a conversation‑starter to learn more about customers – their style, as well as their lifestyle,” she noted.
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Retail partner sees stronger engagement
David Chambers, NFM’s director of flooring, called the installation “a natural fit” with the store’s focus on an “inspiring and informative shopping experience.” He added that the presentation “highlights the beauty and innovation of the Karndean brand while making it easier for customers to discover flooring solutions that fit their homes and lifestyles.”
“Customers are naturally drawn to it because of the visual impact and how effectively it brings the Karndean brand to life,” Chambers said. He also mentioned that the setup “creates great customer‑engagement opportunities and makes it easier to showcase the distinctive design features that set Karndean apart.”
The installation has become a focal point within the flooring showroom, generating curiosity and prompting shoppers to linger longer. The combination of tactile samples and digital visualization appears to bridge the gap between online research and in‑store decision making.
Karndean floors are also stocked at NFM locations in Nebraska, Iowa and Texas, extending the partnership beyond Kansas City. John Callahan, Karndean’s national retail buying groups manager, described the collaboration as a “trusted partnership” that aligns with NFM’s reputation for offering an experience “unlike any other.”
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The Kansas City showcase includes a free‑sample library that lets buyers handle the material before committing. By coupling physical samples with a virtual “in‑room” view, the display addresses both the tactile and visual aspects of the buying process.
Karndean’s design‑aesthetic concept is marketed as more than a shopping aid; it also serves as a sales tool for retailers. Thomas emphasized that understanding a homeowner’s style “makes it easier to guide them to a floor they’ll love.” The training provided to NFM staff reflects this dual purpose, positioning the aesthetic framework as a bridge between product knowledge and customer preference.
While the installation is still new, early feedback suggests it has already boosted brand visibility within the store. Chambers noted that the display “has generated curiosity around the brand and already become a focal point within the flooring showroom.” The partnership appears to reinforce both companies’ commitment to an immersive, customer‑centric retail environment.
