Meet Colleen Patrick-Lenart, Commercial Flooring Specialist
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Meet Colleen Patrick-Lenart, Commercial Flooring Specialist at Creative Carpet & Flooring in Mokena, Illinois
Q: Why did you join Creative Carpet & Flooring?
A: Creative Carpet was highly recommended to me by many industry professionals. But what really drew me in was that they’re family-owned. That’s important to me because I worked alongside my parents in our family flooring business for over 20 years. I understand that dynamic, and I value it.
Q: In an alternate universe, what would you be?
A: Maybe something totally different, like a chef or running a bed and breakfast somewhere beautiful. Whatever it was, I’d want to create experiences that make people feel welcome and valued. That’s a passion that drives me wherever I am.
Q: What do you love the most about your line of work?
A: Since childhood, I’ve enjoyed meeting new people and tackling diverse projects. But the real thrill is the transformation. I love entering a project in disrepair and seeing the impressive results when we’re done. The before-and-after effect never gets old. Restoring a tired or outdated space and making it beautiful again is deeply satisfying.
Q: If there’s one thing you could tell your 18-year-old self, what would it be?
A: Hang on, sweetheart, it’s going to be a wild ride! Life throws curveballs, but trust that you’re stronger than you think. Everything works out the way it’s supposed to, so embrace each moment and never lose faith in yourself.
Q: If someone wanted to enter your field, what advice would you give them?
A: Knowledge is power. Growing up in the business, I was able to see all aspects of projects, from take-ups and floor prep to installation. When you understand the fundamentals, you’re better suited to do your job well. Don’t just learn the sales side. Understand how the work actually gets done, what can go wrong, and how to fix it. That foundation will serve you forever and set you apart as a true professional.
Q: Where is your hometown?
A: Mokena. Born and raised, and still here. It’s a great community, and I’m proud to call it home.
Q: What is your favorite flooring?
Stanton’s Tattersall in Pearl
A: Stanton Tattersall Pearl. Who doesn’t love New Zealand Wool? It’s a classic look that complements so many different decors. Makes a beautiful stair runner or area rug. There’s something timeless about quality wool that never goes out of style.
Q: What is your favorite flooring that you have installed in your house?
Metropolitan Kentwood Collection in Brushed Hickory Riverside
A: Metropolitan Hardwood, 4 1/4″ solid hickory in the color Teddy Bear. It’s a rich dark brown, and the floor is absolutely gorgeous. Timeless, durable, and it looks better with age. I love walking on it every day.
Colleen Patrick-Lenart joined Creative Carpet & Flooring in September 2025 and brought a lifetime of flooring experience with her. Having grown up working in her family’s flooring business, this industry feels second nature to her, and the family-owned culture at Creative immediately felt like the right fit. In her role as a Commercial Flooring Specialist, Colleen works closely with builders, contractors, and designers, enjoying the variety of every new project and the satisfaction of seeing a space completely transformed. Around the office, she is known for her collaborative spirit, thoughtful approach, and genuine appreciation for teamwork. Outside of work, Colleen stays involved in her community through local commissions, values time spent with family and friends, and loves unwinding by the fire with a glass of wine and her dog. Warm, knowledgeable, and grounded, Colleen brings both heart and experience to everything she does at Creative Carpet & Flooring.