Local Designer Rebrands Store, Expands Flooring and Home Services

Alicia Erickson turned a winding career path into a growing local business that aims to keep more home improvement dollars in Beltrami County. Erickson opened The Design Store in Bemidji in 2022 after buying and rebranding Sterling Carpet One, and she and her husband Justin moved the operation to a larger storefront at 2000 Division Street West in January 2024. The shop now operates as The Design Store, Carpet One Floor and Home and combines product sales with design services that local homeowners can use for remodeling and furnishing projects.

Erickson’s background includes early retail inspirations and roles at large home improvement chains and independent flooring stores, experience she translated into managing retail teams and now into ownership. The Design Store offers flooring, furniture, and professional design renderings, and it emphasizes in store customer service and mentoring for staff. The business also maintains community partnerships that connect customers with local contractors and complementary services.

For residents the change matters because it increases local capacity for in town remodeling projects and shortens the need to travel to Minneapolis area showrooms for hands on selections. A larger local showroom creates retail and design positions and supports the supply chain for local contractors who install flooring and furnishings. Erickson has stressed mentoring and customer service as core priorities, which suggests ongoing on the job training and retention of retail skills in the local workforce.

Economically the store’s growth aligns with steady demand for home improvement services as homeowners and landlords invest in maintenance and upgrades. Keeping sales and design consultations local helps capture economic activity within Bemidji and can have multiplier effects for nearby businesses on Division Street West. As The Design Store plans for future growth, the combination of product variety and design expertise positions the business to serve a broader share of Beltrami County’s residential and small commercial projects while contributing to downtown commercial vitality.