Q&A: Jose Lopez Dieguez Has It Covered

This Q&A feature helps readers learn more about Mount Vernon area residents working in our business community.

This week’s Q&A profiles Jose Lopez Dieguez, the owner of , located in Mount Vernon’s Pear Tree Village area. A premier carpet and floor dealer, Solo Flooring offers sales, service and installation of all major carpeting, hardwood and green products.

Jose, who is originally from Venezuela, has owned and managed Solo Flooring with his wife, Jocelyn Ponce-Lopez, since 2004. The family resides in Lake Ridge with their two children, ages 6 and 11 years old.

How did you become interested in your job?

I began working in the flooring business back in 1995 in Venezuela where I had my own company. We sold and installed flooring for oil companies and for the government.  I also have extensive experience with Mohawk University, where I continue to learn many different aspects of the floorcovering business, including product knowledge. [Editor’s Note: Mohawk University, the training arm of Mohawk Industries, teaches thousands of people each year how to become experts in different areas of the floorcovering business, covering everything from installation to business operations.]

What is something you strive to improve on a daily basis in your business?

How to better serve my clients. The products and styles that customers want change all of the time … you really have to stay current, and know what they need and want to stay on top.

Where is your favorite place to go in the Mount Vernon area?

My family has always loved the Potomac River and the George Washington Parkway. We try to bike there every weekend when we have the chance. Sometimes we’ll bike to Old Town, and sometimes we’ll even make it all the way to the airport. When we first moved here, we would go watch the airplanes take off and land at Gravelly Point park. It’s just so nice to be near the water. I’ll often go ride along the path after a busy day at work, just to be near the water. It’s very therapeutic.

What are your hobbies?

Bike riding, playing tennis and boating.

What’s one interesting aspect of your job?

The diversity. Meeting all different kinds of people from a variety of backgrounds. In sales, you learn so many things from people all of the time...they bring all of their experiences to the table and it can be a very enriching experience.

What is the last book you read?

“The Perfume.” This was a mesmerizing book about a man who has the ability to detect the scent of others. This book really takes you there as you read it.

What is your favorite local restaurant?

Roseina’s at Hollin Hall. We also like the Chart House and Fish Market in Old Town.

If you weren’t in this business, what would you be doing?

I would love to teach children how to swim. Back in Venezuela, I was a very good, professional swimmer. My son wants me to teach him now.