ATLANTA, GA-
The word “traffic” is usually a positive one for a kitchen and bath showroom, but in the case of Atlanta, GA-based Cowan Supply, the traffic issue was the one outside, rather than inside the showroom. Originally located in an area of downtown prone to parking and traffic flow issues, the luxury plumbing supply company picked up and moved its showroom to a larger, more open area located just outside the perimeter of the city on the north side.
“Our new location keeps us away from the downtown traffic congestion, yet close enough for our original client base to still utilize us for their plumbing needs,” reports Mike MacFarlane, manager, Cowan Supply.
The much larger, 4,000-sq.-ft space includes the latest in plumbing products that can be experienced first-hand by trade professionals and homeowners alike. “The space is enough to give clients a variety of ideas for their project needs,” offers Lenia Pilkonis, CKD, CBD, RID, luxury showroom sales, Cowan Supply.
THREE-IN-ONE
The new location houses three distinctive showrooms, including a Kohler Premier showroom designed and specified by Kohler with a large display of its products. Pilkonis designed the other two spaces, which includes an area that showcases the firm’s other vendors, as well as a space for a variety of working displays with items such as mirrors with integrated televisions from Electric Mirror and toilets with bidet features from INAX.
“A large working showerhead display and one with a working steam unit and digital showering systems are coming soon,” comments Pilkonis.
Sinks and faucets figure prominently in the showroom, with products from Blanco, Brizo, Delta Faucet, Elkay, Franke, Gerber Plumbing, Graff, Grohe, Hansgrohe, Luxart, Mainline, Moen, Newport Brass, Symmons, T&S Brass, Watermark, Webert and Zurn. There are approximately 15 lines of faucets on display.
Tubs, toilets and vanity cabinetry are also shown in abundance from companies like Victoria & Albert, Ronbow, Niagara Conservation, Gerber Plumbing, INAX, Aqua Glass, Jetta and MTI Baths. Rounding out the selection are mirrors and accessories from Electric Mirror, Afina and Brasstech, and InSinkErator disposals.
Products in the Kohler Premier Showroom include Kohler and Sterling fixtures, bath enclosures, faucets and furniture.
And, Pilkonis notes, “We are growing our showroom to incorporate new products and allow our customers an opportunity to see them before purchasing.”
REACHING CUSTOMERS
Though Cowan Supply doesn’t offers design services, the experienced sales staff can assist with any questions designers and homeowners can dish out. “I have expertise in kitchen and bath design and interior design and am always assisting customers with creating a complete look that satisfies their whole design goals,” notes Pilkonis. And, she continues, “Showroom manager Fred McCurdy has almost 20 years of experience in the plumbing industry, so together we make a great team.”
She adds that MacFarlane has been very supportive of the design concepts and instrumental in helping keep the showroom creation on track.
Pilkonis notes that Cowan has a lot of designers, builders and remodelers who send their clients directly to the showroom because of their design knowledge and plumbing expertise. In addition, the new facility is equipped with areas for designers and remodelers to meet with their clients.
In addition, the showroom houses areas for industry training and events. “We host a variety of events, such as professional organization chapter meetings, CEU programs and tours of our vendor facilities,” states Pilkonis.
To reach their market, Cowan’s staff is also very active in professional organizations, which allows them to maintain relationships with the professional side of the industry.
In addition to professional connections, the firm maintains a Web site with its mascot, Travis T. Fish, hosting a vlog/blog for both professional and consumer tidbits.