Project Focus | A Family Kitchen with Class

Budget Makeovers Geelong worked closely with the homeowners of this kitchen to transform it into a functional and vibrant space. The previously dated and beige kitchen didn’t allow for a seamless workflow and could not keep up with the demands of the growing young family. We think they’ve absolutely nailed the design and created a functional space that will serve them for years to come.

Build: Budget Makeovers Geelong
Design: Owner + MRT Cabinets
Images: Patrick Redmond

Featured Products

Splashback: GT&B 100x100 Zellige Gesso Gloss
Sink: GT&B Uptown Granite 1 3/4 Bowl with Drainer
Sink Mixer: Eden Matte Black Mixer

Project originally featured in Complete Home

Phoenix Expands Designer Sink Mixer Collection

The team at Phoenix Tapware have expanded their Designer Sink Mixer collection with four brand new designs. The new additions are specially designed to meet the needs of any household and include Deja, Linq, Ester, and Erlen.

Deja Pull Out Sink Mixer

Designed in Australia, Deja features a dual function, pull out hand piece with different sprays for ultimate functionality. The 220mm swivel spout enhances its functionality, making cleaning your sink or preparing food a breeze! Deja is available in matte black, brushed nickel, and chrome, and will certainly suit any contemporary home.

Deja Sink Mixer Chrome

Deja in Chrome

Deja in Matte Black

Deja Sink Mixer Brushed Nickel

Deja in Brushed Nickel

Linq Pull Out Sink Mixer

For all you outdoor entertainers, Linq is the sink mixer for you. Constructed out of 316 marine-grade stainless steel, Linq features a lifetime warranty on the finish and ensures ultimate durability against the elements. Linq also has a dual function, pull out hand piece with a switch to alternate between functions. Its timeless silhouette delivers a beautiful soft, organic feel to the mixer, making it perfect for any space both inside and out.

Linq Pull out Sink Mixer

Linq SS Sink Mixer

Ester Sink Mixer

With its seamless fusion of geometric design with a delicately curved lever, Ester is a chic squareline sink mixer perfect for any contemporary home. Ester also features energy saving Cold Start cartridge technology, which allows only cold water to be delivered when the tap is operated from the traditional mid-lever position. Meaning that hot water only flows if the handle is moved to the left hot position, ultimately saving energy by avoiding the unnecessary heating of water. She’s gorgeous and she’s efficient!

Ester Sink Mixer Chrome

Ester in Chrome

Ester Sink Mixer Matte Black

Ester in Matte Black

Ester Sink Mixer Brushed Nickel

Ester in Brushed Nickel

Erlen Sink Mixer

Much like Ester, the Erlen sink mixer features a soft, squareline profile fit for a minimalist aesthetic. Its sleek appearance is enhanced by the recessed aerator, while functionality comes to the fore with the 200mm swivel spout. Erlen is currently available in chrome, matte black, and brushed nickel, with two more finishes due to be added to the collection. Watch this space!

Erlen Sink Mixer Chrome

Erlen in Chrome

Erlen Sink Mixer Matte Black

Erlen in Matte Black

Erlen Sink Mixer Brushed Nickel

Erlen in Brushed Nickel

Discover More From Phoenix’s Designer Sink Mixer Collection

For more information on Phoenix Tapware’s Designer Sink Mixer Collection, click here. Or, visit our showroom to explore our extensive Phoenix display at 17 West Fyans St, Newtown.

5 Types of Sinks and Their Best Features

Choosing a kitchen sink is arguably the most important part of designing your kitchen. First and foremost, it must be functional. The sink is the literal workhorse of your kitchen and should work with you to make your everyday tasks easy. Your sink should also look good. It’s as simple as that.

With a plethora of sinks available out there, we thought we’d take you through the 5 main types of sinks and their best features to help you choose one that’s best for you. Let’s go!

oliveri-black-spectra-inset-undermount-sink

The Spectra Black Double Bowl Sink by Oliveri will create an instant statement in your kitchen

Inset Sinks

First up we have inset or top-mount sinks. These sinks are easily the most popular style on the market. As the name suggests, these sinks are installed on top of the benchtop, and feature a lip to support it. The lip of the sink is then sealed around the edge to ensure it remains waterproof.

The best thing about inset sinks is that they come in an array of shapes, sizes, and configurations to suit your space. From single to double bowl sinks, and those with a drainer, inset sinks are also super easy to install and suitable for all types of benchtops.

Today, inset sinks are much slimmer than the traditional pressed edge sinks you’re probably all familiar with. Not only does the slim design allow the sink to sit flush with your benchtop, but it also reduces the amount of gunky build-up over time.

GT&B FAVE

GT&B Select Single Bowl Stainless Steel Sink

This single bowl sink from our GT&B Select range is the perfect option for a busy household. The generous size allows for easy cleaning of pots and pans, which we love. Fit with a 1.2mm thin profile and brushed stainless steel finish, this sink will sit perfectly in any kitchen.

GT&B Select Single Bowl Stainless Steel Sink

vand-builders-asbury-kitchen-sink

A white undermount sink is great if you’re looking to create a seamless look in your light-coloured kitchen Build: Vand Builders Design: Holman Designs Interiors: Mel Wilson Image: Nic Stephens

Undermount Sinks

Second to inset sinks in popularity are undermount sinks. Installed below the benchtop, undermount sinks create a seamless surface, making it perfect for cleaning. Let’s be real, cleaning ability is always first on the checklist, so undermount sinks tick that box instantly!  

If you are considering undermount sinks for your kitchen, it’s important to note that the cost to install undermount sinks is higher than inset sinks as the cut-out for the stone is larger and the edges require buffing. But don’t let this deter you - we think the positives far out-weigh the initial installation costs!

One of our favourite things about undermount sinks is the ability to insert a dish rack for your dishes to dry after washing. No one wants their dishes creating a centrepiece in their kitchen, so this is the perfect way to get them off the benchtop and tucked away.

GT&B FAVE

Schock Double Bowl Granite Undermount Sink in Polaris

With stunning crisp lines and a silky-smooth finish, Schock’s quality German made sinkware has been created using state-of-the-art composite Nanogranite® materials. It offers exceptional strength and durability, stain resistance, and antibacterial properties.

Schock Double Bowl Granite Undermount Sink in Polaris

black-granite-sink-with-drainer

Drainer sinks offer great functionality for your kitchen Joinery: SCLK Image: Pam Hutchinson

Drainer Sinks

You really can’t go wrong with a sink and drainer combination. It’s a classic fan-favourite, and over the years has received a serious glow-up. Most drainer sinks currently available are much more modern than their previous counterparts. Often made of highly polished stainless steel, new drainer sinks feature a matte brushed stainless steel finish for ultimate sophistication. They even come in different coloured stainless steel or granite finishes. How’s the versatility!?

Drainer sinks also offer great functionality with the option of left or right-hand drainers to suit the configuration of your kitchen. The drainer also keeps your benchtop dry by channelling any water on the surface directly into the sink.  

Just like inset sinks, some drainer sinks feature a slim profile and sit flush with the benchtop when installed, making them as aesthetically pleasing as they are functional. Available in single and double bowl variations, these sinks allow for ease of use and can make washing dishes an absolute breeze.

GT&B FAVE

ABI Interiors Ontario Double Bowl Sink with Drainer in Brushed Brass

Combining beauty and functionality, the Ontario sink is the ultimate statement item for your kitchen. The Ontario also comes with two matching sink wastes and grids to protect the bottom of your sink. Pair it with brushed brass tapware to create a luxurious feel. 

abi-interiors-ontario-brushed-brass-sink

ABI Interiors Ontario Double Bowl Sink with Drainer in Brushed Brass

shaws-shaker-single-600-fireclay-sink

Both heat and impact resistant, Fireclay sinks are an extremely durable option for your kitchen

Fireclay Sinks  

Whether you have a traditional or modern home, creating a statement in your kitchen is easy with a fireclay sink. Often referred to as farmhouse sinks, they are heat and impact resistant and are also resistant to cracking, chipping, and staining, making them perfect for heavy duty everyday use.

For all you entertainers out there, the generous size of fireclay sinks allows for easy cleaning of larger pots and pans after a long day of cooking and serving. Like with all sinks, they come in different sizes, bowl types, and even feature patterns on the front if you’re after a more traditional design.

GT&B FAVE

Shaws Ribchester Double Bowl Sink

The beautifully crafted Shaws Ribchester sink is an iconic double bowl Butler sink with a distinctive rounded, ribbed front. Handmade by Master Craftsmen using the same traditional methods since 1897, you can be assured your Shaws sink is completely unique and of the highest quality.

shaws-ribchester-800-fireclay-sink

Shaws Ribchester 800 Double Bowl Sink

glogauer-strasse-kitchen-integrated-concrete-sink

Integrated sinks offer seamless sophistication and a bespoke product

Integrated Sinks

Last but not least, we have integrated sinks. Probably the most luxe and stylish option out there, integrated sinks create instant wow factor in any kitchen. From concrete or terrazzo, to marble, Corian and stainless steel, integrated sinks can be created from an array of materials to fit any space and style.

The beauty of integrated sinks is the unique nature of their design. With the ability to carve or mould materials into any design, you can rest assured you’ll end up with a bespoke sink for your home.

With its single-piece construction, an integrated sink also makes cleaning up a breeze. Say goodbye to any gunky build-up around your sink and wipe away crumbs and water easily. So, if you’re looking for a seamless, easy-maintenance design feature in your kitchen, look no further than an integrated sink.

GT&B FAVE

Glogauer Strasse Kitchen by Mar Plus Ask

We absolutely adore this kitchen designed by the architecture duo Mar Plus Ask. Located in a one-bedroom apartment in Berlin, this kitchen is a minimalist’s dream. The large integrated concrete sink at the end of the island bench is the clear focal point of the space.

Glogauer Strasse Kitchen by Mar Plus Ask

Explore Our Range of Sinks

So, there you have it; our breakdown of the 5 most common sink types and their best features. While it may seem overwhelming, start with what works best for you and don’t let any trends influence your decision.

Our friendly designers will work with you to help you find the perfect sink for your kitchen today. Visit Geelong Tiles & Bathware at 17 West Fyans Street, Newtown today.   

#GTBLove | October Favourites

Here we go, GT&B Lovers! It’s October, and we’re ready to take you through our product favourites for the month. Think: colour, vibrance, and timeless classics. Are you ready? Let’s go!

Concrete Forever 

Spring really has sprung at GT&B because our showroom is bursting at the seams with exciting, new concrete products. The newest additions to our showroom include the Oasis Freestanding Concrete Bath and Tropez Freestanding Concrete Basin by Concrete Nation.

From Nood Co’s cute Herbert Basin to Concrete Republic’s brand-new concrete bath made right here in Geelong, we have everything you could possibly need to make your concrete dreams a reality.

Designer Tapware

Phoenix Tapware is renowned for its commitment to developing and creating innovative, designer tapware. This commitment has resulted in the Axia collection, and we absolutely adore it.

Axia offers a shifting perspective on bathroom design, showcasing a fresh focus on crisp detailing with a powerful presence. With its modern and minimalist aesthetic, Axia features ultra-thin outlets and lever-less progressive cartridge technology. Now on display in our showroom, you can revel in the timeless design of Axia when you visit us next.

Fireclay Sinks

Whether you have a traditional or modern home, creating a statement in your kitchen, laundry, or bathroom is easy with a fireclay sink. Often referred to as farmhouse sinks, they are heat and impact resistant and are also resistant to cracking, chipping, and staining, making them perfect for heavy duty everyday use.

Providing you the best quality products is our promise, and the fireclay sinks you’ll find on display in our showroom are of the highest quality and handcrafted in the UK, Italy, and France. No matter the style, size, or budget, we’ll find you the perfect fireclay sink for your home.

Waverley Vanity

You may have already seen our excitement on Instagram when ADP Australia launched the Waverley Vanity recently. Hint: we went crazy for it! Well, we’ve since received the vanity and have put it on display – yay!

The Waverley combines everything that is on trend right now: curves, natural timber tones, and v-groove panelling. Don’t be fooled by the word ‘trend’, however, because this vanity is forever. The effortless curves and classic cabinet finishes make it the perfect feature piece in any bathroom.

Come Say Hi!

The inspiration doesn’t stop here. Now that we’re open (again), you’ll have the opportunity to walk through our Newtown showroom and experience these products – and MORE - with your own eyes. We can’t wait to see you!

If you’re ready to start designing your next space but still unable to visit us (thanks Covid), we can take you through a Virtual Selection. Book here.

5 Ingredients You Need to Design the Perfect Kitchen

The kitchen. It’s the heart of the home, and at times, the battleground for many post-dinner wash-up arguments. But what makes the perfect kitchen? I’ve got some tips to help you get started.

The kitchen triangle is alive and well in this glorious space with the stove, sink and fridge within easy reach Image: Tim Turner

The kitchen triangle is alive and well in this glorious space with the stove, sink and fridge within easy reach Image: Tim Turner

Space planning

This is all about observing the way you use the space. Are you an entertainer? Does your family share the kitchen throughout the day? Or do you hate cooking and prefer to UberEats your dinners four nights a week?

Whichever category you fit into; functionality must be front of mind. At a minimum, you should start with the Kitchen Triangle. Referring to the position of the three most important features in any kitchen – the fridge, cooktop and sink – the Kitchen Triangle enables you to perform day-to-day tasks with ease and flow.

An island bench with seating is perfect for the entertainer’s kitchen Build: VAND Builders Image: Nic Stephens

An island bench with seating is perfect for the entertainer’s kitchen Build: VAND Builders Image: Nic Stephens

Define your style

In this stage, your Pinterest boards come to life and become your source of inspiration. It’s also worth looking to your home for direction. Think about whether you want to complement or contrast the bones of the home. If you want to retain the ornate features of your Victorian home, shaker-style cabinetry would complement it perfectly. Otherwise, a contrasting modern kitchen with clean lines and integrated appliances would create a bold statement.

Sleek cabinetry and industrial features emphasise the grandeur of this modern kitchen Build: Truform Construction Image: Tim Turner

Sleek cabinetry and industrial features emphasise the grandeur of this modern kitchen Build: Truform Construction Image: Tim Turner

Storage is king

The biggest investment you can make in your kitchen is with ample and accessible storage. A combination of drawers, cupboards and overhead cupboards are ideal in the kitchen. Don’t forget to take advantage of the height of your room. Although tall cabinets might be hard to get to, they’re great for storing party platters and other items you occasionally need.

Talk about having ample storage! Image: Big4 Wye River

Talk about having ample storage! Image: Big4 Wye River

It’s all in the finishes (and sinkware)

From the benchtop to handles, tapware, sink and the splashback, there are so many ways to inject personality into your kitchen. While things like cabinetry and benchtop colours are important, the one thing I do stress is taking the time to choose a sink fit for your needs. Some households might benefit from undermount sinks, while for others, a sink with a drainer could be a non-negotiable. No matter which sink you choose, ensure it is durable.

Our clients opted for a black Schock double bowl sink with a drainer to suit their needs Joinery: SCLK Geelong Image: Pam Hutchinson

Our clients opted for a black Schock double bowl sink with a drainer to suit their needs Joinery: SCLK Geelong Image: Pam Hutchinson

Consult the experts

Whether you’re renovating or starting a new build, take the time to look at your layout and make a rough plan of the changes you’d like to make. Then be sure to consult the experts to talk through your ideas and work out if they’re possible or not. Cabinet makers will have all the answers for the structure of your kitchen, and we’ll look after the rest (note: the fun stuff).

VAND Builders bring Palm Springs to Ocean Grove

VAND Builders teamed up with Holman Designs and Mel Wilson Interiors to create the most epic Palm Springs-inspired home in the coastal suburb of Ocean Grove. The team worked closely with us to source the perfect tiles and bathware to complete their clients’ vision, and we’re totally in love with the result.

Build: VAND Builders
Design: Holman Designs
Interiors: Mel Wilson Interiors
Photography: Nic Stephens