The business began in 1969 as a friendly storefront, catering to a rural community. That same warmth exists today even as Steamboat’s profile has changed.

In September 1991, the business came under new ownership. For Bob Sabel, the new owner, the time ahead was full of responsibility and new challenges.

“You move around in your thought process as to how you want to present your business,” Bob says. “In the end, a few basic principles always surfaced: quality, value and service. Our goal is always to find product lines which keep pace with our ever-changing needs. We’ve been fortunate to align our business with manufacturers who are leaders in the industry, such as Karastan, Mohawk, Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, Bigelow and Lees Commerical. When you build a relationship with companies like these, you are never disappointed.”

In March 1995, the business moved to its new, expanded showroom and warehouse facility. Located on Downhill Drive, the 6,400 square-foot area offered yet another opportunity to be the most complete showroom on the Western Slope.

A few years ago, The Carpet Shoppe worked with H.C. & Sharon Pace on selections of carpet for their new home. “Little did we know at that time it would not only be a lasting friendship but a future business relationship as well,” Bob says.

“H.,” as he is called, was the third generation in his family-owned international area rug business. H. may have thought he was retiring in Steamboat, but today, he is in charge of the area rug collection at The Carpet Shoppe. The gallery includes the rugs of Karastan and fine handmade rugs from Nepal, India, China, Pakistan and Turkey.

“The valley’s demands in rugs are very diverse. People here come from everywhere, and they bring their individual tastes with them,” H. explains. “We tried to use all of the sources available to us to create diversity in design, texture, color and price.”

“Our sales and support staff as well as our installation crews are the real reasons for the success of The Carpet Shoppe. This company would not be what it is today without the teamwork attitude that has become routine in our sometimes hectic days,” Bob reflects. “I’m very grateful to be surrounded by such talented people.”

Bob Sabel, Owner

Bob Sabel was born in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin in 1949, as one of 5 children born to Greg and Marie Sabel.  While in Wisconsin he owned and ran a variety of businesses including a golf course, travel agency, and supermarket.  While in Fond du Lac he married and fathered 2 sons, Zach and Adam.

In 1991 he followed his love of the mountains to Steamboat and bought The Carpet Shop soon after. 

When he can finally be drug out of the office Bob also enjoys golf, hiking, camping, scuba diving (thanks to Zach!), snow shoeing, and traveling, sky diving and most often to Tuscon where his son Adam lives!

Nikki Weber, Assistant

Nikki Weber was born in Lincoln, NE in 1981.  She is the second of four children born to David and Roxanne Bruce. 

She graduated from Hastings High School in 1999 and moved to Steamboat in 2002 for new life experiences.  Also, to enjoy the mountains! 

In her non-office time she and her husband enjoy snowboarding, hiking, biking, and being a thespian in the local theatre.