About Us

Todd Smith and Ché Coleman first crossed paths as students at Southern University A&M College. During a semester break, the two shared a 30-hour carpool ride back home to California — and that drive changed everything.

With miles of open road ahead, the conversation turned to flooring. Ché had worked as a lead technician at a hardwood flooring company in Pasadena before college, giving him deep, hands-on expertise in wood floor sanding, refinishing, and installation. He had a genuine passion for the craft — always striving to produce what he called the “perfect floor.” During that ride, he brought the work to life, describing the process, the equipment, and the real opportunity that existed for bringing that level of service to Baton Rouge.

Todd saw the vision immediately. He pictured uniformed crews, logo’d trucks, and a systemized process built to deliver consistent, exceptional results every single time. Together, they talked about what the ultimate customer experience would look like — from the first consultation to the final walk-through. By the time they arrived home, a partnership had been forged and a vision had been born:

“Producing the ultimate product, delivered in the highest way — a tradition of craftsmanship.”

Building Something Lasting

In 1996, powered by that vision, Todd and Ché established California Hardwood Floors and set out to educate and serve Greater Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas. From the very beginning, the mission was to create the ultimate process — one that was consistent, repeatable, and always centered on the customer. That commitment paid off. California Hardwood Floors quickly established itself as a forerunner in the Baton Rouge market, earning a reputation built on quality and trust.

Today, California Hardwood Floors holds partnerships with Bona, earning the designation of Certified Bona Craftsmen, and maintains active membership in the National Wood Flooring Association. These commitments reflect what has always driven Todd and Ché — a relentless dedication to honing their craft, delivering industry-proven processes, and upholding the highest standards in everything they do.