It was not long however and Patrick had not only landed a job at Hamilton House thus beginning his career in broadloom, but due to the somewhat questionable business ethics of the former manager found himself promoted to the position in just six (6) weeks. I mention Patrick’s early work experience not to embarrass (much) but to remind us that life’s journey is long and varied, But I’m digressingTM (Not really).
At the time the roof of the AmericasMart housed a restaurant (owned by Stouffer’s) aptly and uncreatively named “Top of the Mart” and our friend was the Maître D’, presiding over the dining room like his influence would later preside over the rug industry (you may now moan).
With would be jobs in the industry scarce, Patrick decided to start at the top!! Of a building we all know and love. “Well it was pirate!” Patrick responded somewhat laughing, somewhat indignant before continuing to regale me with his tales (pirate and otherwise). He had always shown an affinity for beautiful interiors though from the description of his “early pirate” themed bedroom replete with iron candle wall sconces hung on gilt framed cut velvet panels one could not be faulted for questioning his style, at least in hindsight. It was circa 1974 and Patrick had just moved to Atlanta to begin his career in the design industry. “San Francisco really is a treat” I claim to have thought, and now, years later I cannot help but wonder if that liberating feeling of home, though that solitary word seems inadequate, is the same that Patrick felt when he first visited San Francisco in 1976? What was it that took him there? Where did he come from? Question? After question? Waiting to be answered. I arrived the day before as is my modus operandi and upon checking into my hotel, I walked out the door and up the street into the golden rays of the California sun, the bell on the cable car went “Ding, Ding!” just like in those Rice-A-Roni advertisements of my youth, a chill went down my spine and a feeling that anything is possible filled my mind.
I had been sent to San Francisco to facilitate Lapchi’s presence in what remains to this day one of the best rug showrooms in North America. It was the spring of 2006 and I was traveling on the road peddling wares from Lapchi, much the same way a youthful Patrick entered the sales business by traveling (we presume door to door) peddling “steel” as I believe he euphemistically calls it. We begin this story on the occasion of my first meeting with Patrick Aaron.
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