Carol Swedlow never thought she’d end up in the family business. And yet, nearly 20 years after leaving a successful career as an architect and designer to work at Aronson’s – first as a project manager, then as Managing Partner and ultimately as President – the transition from professional craftsman to retail entrepreneur has proven to be a seamless, even auspicious one.

Carol’s architect’s perspective has enabled her to forge trusted, solid relationships with members of the design community, who value her impeccable design taste and behind-the-scenes understanding of floor coverings and installation. Under her tutelage, Aronson’s has become renowned for its considered approaches to design and architecture, as well as its dedication to environmental sustainability. The store has changed the conversation about design materials, artisanship and sustainability through its work with artisan materials fabricators and its workshop series for architects and designers, and its emphasis on sustainability is reflected in flooring collections featuring natural fibers and other sustainable materials.

In addition to her background as an architect, Carol is also a building developer (of The Brownstone, a high-end residential project featured in New York Magazine), an active co-op and condo board member and a committed member of her East Village neighborhood and community. When she’s not running ragged to find the right floor coverings for her clients, Carol can be found running ragged after her two twin daughters, whose energy level is the best test of just how much wear-and-tear one rug or carpet can take.