Our Story

In 2003 I retired from Ann Sacks Tile and Stone which I started in my home in 1981.

In 2006 I decided to pursue a new goal, creating a sophisticated but affordable collection of tile, stone, and wood that would enable designers to pursue their creative ends while balancing the timing and budget realities of commercial projects.

In order to accomplish this mission I relied on my thirty years of experience in the industry during which I obtained an in depth understanding about how things are made and what COULD be made with existing resources.

I also relied upon the wonderful relationships I had established by working with manufacturers and quarriers as partners.

Design and Direct Source (DDS) prides itself on providing the best products at the best prices, as well as creative and timely responses to requests. Our valued customers can expect a sample and important product and timing information quickly, often as soon as overnight. 

We hope this website will be another tool which can help you, the developer or design professional, by showing that exceptional products can be had at exceptional prices!

Thanks to all of you for supporting DDS and to learn more about how your valued support is helping animals please take a moment to visit our story on philanthropy.

Warm regards,

Ann Sacks
President, Design and Direct Source

Sustainability

In every relationship with our valued vendors the issue of sustainable practices is paramount. The ability to reach certain goals varies a great deal based upon the specific product, but we are proud to work with world class manufacturers and quarries that are committed to knowledge, incremental improvements, and transparent practices. We rate sustainability based on the following practices:

Recycled Content:
Tile with identifiable recycled content either post industrial or post consumer. This includes glazes and tile body.

Natural or Renewable:
Adaptable, reusable, or recyclable components. Does not lead to use of unsustainable materials.

Ecologically Responsible:
Non-toxic or non – hazardous to occupants and installers. Material does not require damaging maintenance, replacement or disposal practices.

Resource Efficient Manufacturing:
Products manufactured with resource-efficient processes including reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste (recycled, recyclable and or source reduced product packaging), and reducing greenhouse gases.

Efficient Sourcing and Transportation of Materials:
Product components found locally or regionally saving energy and resources in transportation to factory. Factories where products are manufactured are local to job site or to major port thereby reducing the transportation

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