It shouldn’t be difficult to shop for new windows or bathrooms, and Window Depot and Bath Depot created the ultimate showroom experience
By Patricia Nugent
In an increasingly virtual and digital world, people are craving real experiences, the ability to see and feel and interact with their surroundings.
“If our customers’ behavior is telling us anything it’s that they love a real showroom experience,” says Tony Hoty, owner of Window Depot and Bath Depot in Westlake. “When we moved here from Rocky River in 2021, the motivating factor was to double our showroom size. And now we’re in the planning stages of moving our warehouse to another nearby building and doubling our showroom’s size again.
Most of his competitors in the window replacement and bathroom renovation industries don’t put much, if any, emphasis on showrooms, instead promoting the fact that they “bring the showroom” to people’s homes.
“Customer satisfaction is our number one goal, and we don’t believe that showing a bunch of tiny samples to people and expecting them to make important decisions based on them is the best way for them to be happy with the job when it’s done,” says Tony. “Our showroom displays life-sized windows, showers and baths so people get a real interaction. We want them to appreciate exactly what they are getting.”
To take the process further, he says if the particular item people are interested in is not in their showroom in the color or style they want, the project managers have iPads and 3D visualizer software that lets buyers see what changing something like a fixture would look like.
“Customers tell us they enjoy working directly with our no-pressure team of consultants, personally going through the features and benefits of each product line, and how they fit with a client’s unique needs,” says Tony.
Choose Your Level of Savings
Tony says he rises above the competition on three areas: selection, savings and service.
This month they are kicking off a new program that hits on savings. The team has started the Cooperative Savings Plans for customers to get the most bang for their home improvement dollar.
There are options for people to play an active role and save up to 28 percent off their project by helping the company reduce its marketing and operating expenses. This might include a spotlight on social media featuring photos and details about their project or paying with check to avoid processing fees.
“We’re straightforward about our goals with this program,” he says.
And as any drive through Westlake and its neighboring cities will tell you, judging from the amount of the eye-catching 3D yard signs, lots of your neighbors are already reaping the additional savings.
Ramped-Up Showroom Selection
Tony says he considers it a service to his customers to offer the widest selection for windows and bathroom renovation jobs.
“In addition to the better-known window manufacturers such as Andersen and Pella, we also offer a local Amish manufacturer called ProVia,” he says. “Whether vinyl, composite, fiberglass or real wood options, our focus is on craftsmanship, esthetics and the best warranties.”
The company offers every size and style of window, going beyond standard sizes to include double-hung, casement, bay and bow, horizontal sliders, garden windows, picture windows and custom-built specialty windows.
On the Bath Depot side, they have curated an endless selection of bathtubs, showers and tub-to-shower conversions from names like Moen, Kohler, Jacuzzi and Delta, with trending materials and fixtures to fit every budget.
No visit to the showroom would be complete without an interaction with Chief Morale Officer Daphne Hoty, a sweetheart rescue dog who works tirelessly as the company mascot and greeter.
The Ultimate Win-Win
With the new Energy Tax Credit, you can take 30 percent off triple-pane windows and doors up to $600.
“This is a great way to upgrade with best-in-class windows that are remarkably energy efficient,” says owner Tony Hoty. “Thanks to our collective buying power, we are already able to pass along significant savings to our clients. And we offer several financing options, so homeowners don’t have to wait to begin saving on their cooling and heating bills. It’s a win-win.”
Another benefit of triple-pane windows is their noise-reducing effect. As anyone who has battled lawnmowers, chainsaws, construction equipment and barking dogs will tell you, they can ruin a Zoom call or even your concentration while working from home. Install these models and you won’t hear a thing.
Window Depot and Bath Depot are located within the same building just off I-90, at 24510 Sperry Drive in Westlake. Showroom hours are Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 440-652-2900 or visit WindowDepotCleveland.com and BathDepotCleveland.com for more information.