By Samantha Joseph

Staff writer

MARTIN COUNTY - While overall, wall-to-wall carpeting businesses have seen sales decline in the economic recession, Able Carpet has experienced an upswing.

Owner George Sisto credits it to the store's niche or unique client mix, which includes luxury boaters, local designers and consumers who want environmentally-friendly flooring.

"That's really what's kept us thriving in this bad economy," he said.

Able Carpet has been in business since 1973, and Mr. Sisto has operated it since 1993. He's worked with the company since high school, and inherited it from the former owner.

"That's my story. It's really all I've ever known," he said.

The store specializes in on-site rug fabrication, allowing customers to select various carpet patterns to merge into unique rugs. It makes custom borders and tapestries for residential, commercial and marine clients.

Thousands of samples decorate its Jensen Beach showroom, which also features hardwood flooring and vinyl.

And the store's artisans can weave different fabrics and textures to create a unique product for each client.

"We do all kinds of rug-making right on site," Mr. Sisto said.

A growing product line features reclaimed wood from all over the country and includes oak, walnut, cherry and maple.

It's an idea that has strong appeal to Martin County's growing "green" movement that aims to use environmentally-friendly products.

"The green issue is a big one. A lot of our customers are asking not only for wood flooring but for 'green,' so we have cork flooring, bamboo, reclaimed wood and wool carpet," he said.

Reversible, hand-knotted carpets, made with no adhesives or chemical dyes and using only natural fibers, add to the store's popular choices for conscientious consumers.

"For some people that is issue No. 1, and we can definitely help with that," he said.

Able Carpet also works with designers across the Treasure Coast, creating custom-made pieces for projects.

"We specialize in and enjoy doing unique work," Mr. Sisto said.

Able Carpet is located at 1084 N.E. Jensen Beach Blvd. For more information, call (772) 334-5221.