NELSON TILE & STONE
Known for their design service, state-of-the-art fabrication of countertops, and extensive onsite inventory, Nelson Tile & Stone provides high-end kitchen and bathroom services to the Central Oregon region. Nelson works with all materials imaginable, ranging from granite slabs to composites to large-format porcelain, and performs all of their own fabrications and specializations. Nelson takes pride in staying at the forefront of the latest trends and works with contractors and designers alike. Their client-centered approach delivers products that are aptly suited to their customers’ needs and desires.
As an investment, the home garners significant value from the kitchen and bathroom regardless of its geographic location or stature. Chris Nelson, owner of Nelson Tile & Stone, recognizes the challenges that differ between outfitting a home for resale, or living in it personally. By staying updated on trends, Nelson knows the line between neutral appeal and personal touch. “A key question we ask right away is, ‘Are you doing this for yourself, or for resale down the road?’ When resale is part of the picture, we work hard to encourage our clients towards something that’s timeless yet grabs the eye,” shares Nelson.
Nelson works hard to maintain cutting-edge knowledge of the latest trends, an invaluable resource in curating a top-notch home, especially in locations that are more distant from a large metropolis. “While many trends tend to skip straight to the bigger cities, we bring the most current styles and applications right here to Bend through a commitment to industry trade shows,” adds Nelson. With many clients moving from the larger West Coast cities, maintaining this flow of design information is essential.
““While many trends tend to skip straight to the bigger cities, we bring the most current styles and applications right here to Bend through a commitment to industry trade shows.”
–Chris Nelson, Owner, Nelson Tile & Stone
Nelson Tile & Stone brings kitchen and bath design to life in their extensive showroom. “Having items on hand, installed in a vignette, really gives clients that contextual attention, so that they can see how elements will look and function,” notes Nelson. As an exclusive distributor of several high-end kitchen systems, having the ability to see them in action brings value to their customers’ experience. After seeing a stunning display at the recent Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, Nelson reached out to the distributor of PITT, a high-end gas cooktop manufactured in Holland, to carry the product. “PITT was really excited to be working directly with a countertop manufacturer. This top-mount cooktop doesn’t require any glass or metal base, but rather sits directly on the countertop surface for a clean, modern look,” shares Nelson.
Nelson Tile & Stone also is the exclusive retailer and installer of a stainless sink called Top Zero. “Instead of having a reveal around the sink, the counter sets on a bracket, so you don’t see any countertop edge, you just see the sink. It’s clean and fashion-forward,” shares Nelson. “Being able to have those items is what really customizes your project; you don’t see the same cooktop or backsplash at your neighbors’ house. That gives it that wow factor. That sets your kitchen over the top,” exudes Nelson.
Working directly with their clients, Nelson Tile & Stone prioritizes understanding the styles that embody their clients’ needs. Nelson works closely with his clients to achieve both the aesthetic and function desired; his background helps to tease out nuances they weren’t yet aware of. “We ask for their Pinterest boards, their favorite Instagram accounts, what they’re saving. Then we visit the space, and bring them to the showroom to then figure out how we can customize the space to achieve what they like in possibilities that they hadn’t imagined yet,” notes Nelson. By delving into the client’s interests, with an encyclopedic understanding of the products and systems available, Nelson has the experience to meld the two into a unique solution.
Using software to help visualize the selections from tile, countertops, and even sinks and faucets, Nelson Tile & Stone elevates the decision-making process. “We’re working with software that helps people see their project rather than trying to visualize it with words,” shares Nelson. By integrating financial estimates with the visual, Nelson can offer their clients a full picture of the project to provide the most informed decision-making process.
“Being able to have those items is what really customizes your project; you don’t see the same cooktop or backsplash at your neighbors’ house. That gives it that wow factor. That sets your kitchen over the top.”
–Chris Nelson, Owner, Nelson Tile & Stone
When it comes to the final piece, Nelson stands behind their craftsmanship as essential in the function and longevity of the project. He emphasizes, “People use the term ‘industry standard’ a lot; there’s no such thing as a standard, the quality and craftsmanship makes the overall look. The standard is your own, of how you want it to look and function.” Nelson’s experience offers an awareness of materials, and how they work with the construction of the home to ensure that the final product looks beautiful and functions exceptionally.
Nelson Tile & Stone also maintains a deep knowledge of both the products they use and the integrity of the companies that stand behind them. “We know who has a good warranty, who has reps that will respond to your inquiries, and that’s an important part of product selection,” adds Nelson. “We think of things practically, we’re aware of the plumbing we provide, and what it takes should it need repair. For that reason, we like to use options with local parts, that local plumbers have good awareness of, so it doesn’t take three weeks to repair a faucet.”
Built on a foundation of high-quality craftsmanship and innovative yet practical teamwork with their clients, Nelson Tile & Stone brings the most current trends home to Central Oregon, offering one-of-a-kind kitchens and baths in every home they work on.
“People use the term ‘industry standard’ a lot; there’s no such thing as a standard, the quality and craftsmanship makes the overall look. The standard is your own, of how you want it to look and function.”
–Chris Nelson, Owner, Nelson Tile & Stone
At some point, the number of things to look at and absorb may seem overwhelming. And that’s where Ferguson’s design consultants come into play. Constant training and learning are part of the job, but there is certainly more to it than just knowing the products. The art is in understanding the client so you can match them with the right product. Shannon explains, “When you go into the showroom, associates will ask you questions so they can recommend things that will complement your lifestyle. It’s a deeper thing than just how it looks; it’s about how it complements your life.” That is something of particular relevance to those of us in this part of the world. Lifestyle is often what draws us to a place like Central Oregon. It’s also what probably makes the coffee machines such a focal point of any showroom in the Northwest.
Taking the time to get to know the client is important to Ferguson’s staff. Shannon offers some good advice to help with that process, saying, “If you have a Pinterest board, or magazine clippings, your house plans, your measurements—anything you can bring assures that we have the full picture of what’s going on.”
