5 Products We're Loving Right Now

As loyal followers and all-round GT&B Lovers, you would know that we’re always on the lookout for new and exciting products to bring you. That’s why we thought we’d take you through some of our current favourites, both new and timeless. Strap yourselves in because you just might find yourselves driving towards Newtown in no time.

Moroccan Tile Panels

We’ve always had a deep love for Moroccan Zellige and Bejmat tiles, but recently, we were introduced to another level of Moroccan tile royalty: Moroccan panels. When we tell you, our jaws hit the floor, they seriously could have caused an earthquake! No exaggeration.

Made entirely by hand, each piece is meticulously glazed, hand-chipped and pre-assembled with an epoxy resin for quick and easy installation. The result you’re left with is an incredible patterned panel with all the texture, variation, and colour you could ask for. Moroccan tile panels are perfect for use on kitchen splashbacks, counters, bathroom floors, walls, or hearths.

Sustainable Grout

Unlike most cement-based grouts on the market, Fugabella Color by Kerakoll is made using a resin-cement. This means it has a lower absorption rate and achieves other performance characteristics such as high surface hardness and high resistance to the most common acidic substances. The resin component also helps eliminate the risk of efflorescence, shading, and provides long-term colour stability.  

Formulated using a new mix of pure and natural binders, Fugabella is green building certified and features a very low volatile organic compound (VOC) content, which is safe for people’s health and in-turn has a lower environmental impact. Available in 50 impressive and decorative colours, Fugabella Color is the grout you need in your life.

Parquetry Flooring

We can’t help but fall deeper and deeper in love with parquetry every time one of our awesome clients select it for their project. Parquetry flooring achieves a timeless aesthetic with every application and will create a beautiful canvas for your furniture and interior furnishings to sing.

What we love most about parquetry flooring is its versatility – especially in porcelain form. Available in classic patterns and contemporary colours, parquetry-look porcelain tiles allow you to bring that style into wet areas and, in some cases, externally for a seamless and continuous look throughout your home.

Japanese Mosaics

Our new range of Japanese mosaics are full of history and character. The range, Mino, is named after the city they are manufactured. Mino is located within the Gifu prefecture, which has a long history of producing and innovating fine porcelain products.

A contemporary celebration of the manufacturing traditions and practices of this prefecture, our Japanese Mino mosaics are the perfect solution for anyone seeking an organic aesthetic in their home. In all honesty, they’ve made us want to tile every single surface of our own homes, they’re that perfect. Available in two distinctive styles – Linen and Crosshatch – and four colours each.  

Vilo Sink Mixers

The Vilo Pull-Out Mixer, a true icon of the sink mixer realm, has new friends! And they’re glorious. Just launched by Oliveri, the Italian-made Vilo now comes in an additional four colours: Gold, Gunmetal, Natural Brass, and Satin Chrome & White.

Now more versatile than ever, these sink mixers will complement many different styles and colour schemes. We personally love the height of the Vilo and think it will make the perfect statement in your kitchen, pantry, or laundry space.  

Prepare to be Inspired

Our showroom at 17 West Fyans Street, Newtown is bursting at the seams with designer products for your renovation or new build. Visit Geelong Tiles & Bathware to explore our ranges and book a selection with one of our designers to get started on your project.

What’s the Difference Between Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles?

Deciding between porcelain and ceramic tiles looms over every customer when it’s time to redo their bathroom, kitchen, splashback, or tile any other room in the home. However, to most consumers, porcelain and ceramic mean virtually the same thing. While they technically are, there are some elements that separate them from each other. So, allow us to guide you through the real differences between porcelain and ceramic tiles.

High-quality Italian porcelain tiles Product: 600x1200 Opulence Eccentric

High-quality Italian porcelain tiles Product: 600x1200 Opulence Eccentric

Why do People Confuse Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles?

Like with everything in the industry, building materials are constantly evolving and improving with technological advancements; and the treatment of porcelain and ceramic tiles has been no different.

For many years, ceramic tiles were the preferred option for tiling floors for their easy installation. But as tile manufacturing advanced, people were introduced to porcelain tiles, the alternative material with a much higher price tag. This left people wondering (and still does); if porcelain and ceramic tiles are used for the same applications and installed with the same methods, why should I pay more for porcelain?

Ceramic floor tile Product: 450x450 Lexicon White

Ceramic floor tile Product: 450x450 Lexicon White

How They’re Made

The major differences between porcelain and ceramic tiles boil down to the process of making them. Porcelain tiles are made with a special, high-density clay, fired at a high temperature, and glazed with a liquified glass coating. Ceramic tiles are made with a coarser clay fired at a lower temperature and then glazed.

Due to the differences in density, porcelain tiles are more water-resistant than ceramic tiles – making them the preferable option for high-traffic commercial applications.

The other difference to understand is the way in which they’re finished. Porcelain tiles have straight, rectified edges which means they can be installed with tighter grout lines to create the illusion of a seamless surface. Ceramic tiles come with cushion or rolled edge which requires larger grout lines between tiles.

Similarly, high-quality porcelain tiles feature more intricate and realistic prints to replicate natural stone and concrete surfaces, while ceramic tiles are manufactured with basic glazing patterns with less variation.

Italian-made travertine-look tiles with a rectified edge Product: 600x1200 Reverso Beige

Italian-made travertine-look tiles with a rectified edge Product: 600x1200 Reverso Beige

Factors to Consider When Selecting Tiles

When you’re selecting tiles for your next bathroom, kitchen, or renovation project, you should firstly consider the scale of your project, aesthetic, and budget.

Most entry-level builder’s selections will allow a budget for ceramic tiles for their affordability and easy installation. If you’re building your dream home and want to invest a little more into your finishes, porcelain tiles are the perfect solution.

Concrete-look porcelain tiles Product: 600x600 Trust Grey

Concrete-look porcelain tiles Product: 600x600 Trust Grey

Doing the Best for Your Project

 There you have it, friends; the real difference between porcelain vs. ceramic tiles explained. Geelong Tiles & Bathware has a huge selection of porcelain and ceramic designer tiles that will elevate the look of your new space. Book in a selection with our designers, who will take the time to understand your needs and find the best material and tile design for your project.

How to Look After Your Custom-Coloured Tapware

Getting a custom finish on your tapware can make or break the design of your entire room. From brass, copper, gold, bronze, and brushed nickel, tapware comes in a variety of colours and finishes that look amazing. However, each finish requires different care to maintain its newness. Maintenance for custom-coloured tapware is super easy if you adhere to these best practices.

Brodware Halo Pullout Kitchen Set in Aged Iron PVD

Brodware Halo Pullout Kitchen Set in Aged Iron PVD

PVD Finished Tapware

Clean your PVD finished tapware regularly with warm water and polish it with a microfibre cloth. To prevent spots, you can occasionally use a non-abrasive polish or a liquid soap, as long as it doesn't have agents like citrus, acid, bleach, vinegar, or alcohol.

Organic Finished Tapware

Since organic finishes do not have a protective coating, they are highly susceptible to scratching or scuffing if not cared for properly. The unique design advantage of organic finishes is that they develop a patina over time, replicating what nature would do to the surface if exposed to the elements. For this reason, never clean organic-finished tapware with acidic fluids. Instead, wax them every couple of months with a micro-crystalline wax and apply using a soft cloth or tissue.

Faucet Strommen Pegasi M Sink Mixer in Raw Polished Copper

Faucet Strommen Pegasi M Sink Mixer in Raw Polished Copper

Electroplate Finished Tapware

Electroplated finishes are highly decorative and should be regularly cleaned with warm water and a microfibre cloth. You can use liquid soap to remove spots provided it doesn't contain harsh, acidic ingredients. You can also use a non-abrasive polish to maintain shine. 

Powder-coat Finished Tapware

Powder-coat finishes should also be cleaned with warm water and a dry microfibre cloth. Don't use a polish on these finishes but instead use a mild liquid soap and warm water to do away with spots.

ABI Interiors Aura Sink Mixer in Clay

ABI Interiors Aura Sink Mixer in Clay

Maintenance for Custom Tapware Doesn't Have to be Hard!

Seeing all the care instructions for your custom-coloured tapware might be intimidating at first, but don't let it scare you away from these beautiful finishes. Custom finishes elevate your tapware and add an element of luxury that you just can't get with basic tapware. Once you understand what kind of finish your tapware has, it's easy to incorporate these best practices into your normal cleaning routine. 

Explore Custom Tapware Finishes in Newtown

Picking out your tapware's colour and finish is a personal process, and you should never settle for pictures online to dictate that decision. See and feel each finish for yourself to decide what you want to see in your home. Geelong Tiles & Bathware has a variety of coloured tapware in every finish available. Visit our showroom in Newtown for some personalised guidance from our team.

Do I Need Engineered Timber, Vinyl, Hybrid, or Laminate Flooring?

Four of the most popular flooring materials are engineered timber, vinyl and hybrid flooring, and laminate flooring. While the final look of all three is similar, the feel, function, durability, and price of each is very different. Let's take a look!

Everwood Oak Large Board in ‘Manilla’ Build: VAND Builders Design: Holman Designs + Mel Wilson Interiors Image: Nic Stephens

Everwood Oak Large Board in ‘Manilla’ Build: VAND Builders Design: Holman Designs + Mel Wilson Interiors Image: Nic Stephens

What is Engineered Timber Flooring?

Engineered timber is a luxurious, durable flooring material used for projects that demand perfection or longevity. Engineered timber planks are made by placing a layer of timber veneer on top of a plywood base. The plywood ensures durability, while the veneer top is smooth, beautiful, and available in various thicknesses. What’s more, this flooring material is strong and much more moisture resistant than solid timber.

Installing engineered timber usually requires a professional. They install it plank by plank using a stick-down method and can have it completed in as little as a day or two. 

The most common types of timber used in engineered planks include European Oak and Australian species such as Blackbutt and Spotted Gum. The boards are pre-finished and come in a variety of lengths and widths.

Savannah Vinyl Flooring

Savannah Vinyl Flooring

What is Vinyl and Hybrid Flooring?

Vinyl and hybrid flooring are extremely durable materials ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic both in the home and commercial settings.

Vinyl and hybrid planks are constructed very similarly. The only difference between the two is the composition of the core; vinyl planks are made solely from PVC, while hybrid planks add stone to create a much stronger, rigid core.

Both vinyl and hybrid planks have the look and feel of timber, but they are 100% waterproof, hard-wearing, scratch-resistant, and require no maintenance. 

Available in entry-level to high-end luxury ranges, vinyl and hybrid flooring can suit any budget. These flooring options suit those who want the timber look at a competitive price and with greater convenience.  

Vinyl and hybrid are also easy to install. Vinyl planks are glued down with a special pressure sensitive adhesive, while hybrid planks come with a click system and are installed floating. Installation is usually completed in a day or two. 

Lamskin Laminate Flooring

What is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring has a medium-density fibreboard (MDF) base, topped with an image layer, and finished with a transparent wear layer. It is very inexpensive and a good choice if your floors are subject to a lot of wear and tear. Laminate flooring, however, is not water-resistant and should not be used in areas with a lot of moisture. 

Laminate planks are installed as floating floors, which means that the floorboards connect to each other but not the subfloor. Like hybrid flooring, they have a click system design that enables easy installation. 

Which Flooring Option is Right for Me?

Geelong Tiles & Bathware is a proud supplier of engineered timber, vinyl, hybrid, and laminate flooring. Our team will help you select the best material for your needs and provide an accurate quote. Explore our extensive range of timber flooring options by visiting the showroom at 17 West Fyans Street, Newtown.

Shower Power: How to choose the best shower head for you

Ahh the shower. It’s a place of relaxation and the perfect stage for us all to belt out our favourite tunes to no one (I sometimes think this is a good thing #tonedeaf). But it’s also a sanctuary for some of the best planning and innovating we can do in a 5-minute timeframe.

So, there’s no wonder why the shower is integral to creating the best environment for your shampoo to lather and vocal range to soar. How do you go about choosing the right shower to suit your needs, style, and budget? We’ll show you how.

Pegasi wall arm and microphone shower on adjustable hook combination in Gunmetal Design: Rebecca Jansma Image: Nikole Ramsay

Pegasi wall arm and microphone shower on adjustable hook combination in Gunmetal Design: Rebecca Jansma Image: Nikole Ramsay

Who is the shower for?

Step one to selecting the best shower for you is understanding who will be using it. For example, a rail shower is the perfect solution for a family bathroom. The sliding rail allows for versatility and can be adjusted to any height to suit each person using it. A rail shower is also great for cleaning and will change your shower-cleaning game forever. Trust us.

In your master ensuite, however, you could up your shower game with a ceiling-dropper and hand shower combination for ultimate luxury. On the days you don’t want to wash your hair, or need to wash your tan off, the hand shower will be your best friend. Make sure to install two separate wall mixers so you can use both the ceiling and hand shower at the same time!

Pegasi dual shower in Rose Gold Build: Larkin & Drought Homes Image: Carli Wilson

Pegasi dual shower in Rose Gold Build: Larkin & Drought Homes Image: Carli Wilson

What kind of shower experience are you looking for?

It’s true, everyone showers differently. We also all have our own preferences for the types and sizes of shower heads we like. While we’re here, we’d like to clarify some of the misconceptions people have when it comes to the size of shower heads.

Firstly, the larger the shower head doesn’t always mean the better the shower. Because the head is much larger, the water has further to disperse, meaning the overall water pressure can be reduced significantly. Your standard 250mm shower head will provide sufficient pressure and coverage.

 But if you want to be even more surprised, smaller shower heads are in the God Tier of shower heads. You know the ones that look like microphones? Yep, they’re by far the best of the best and our personal favourites. Whether on a rail or adjustable hook, these showers will change the way you shower forever. They provide the right amount of pressure and will surprise you with the amount of coverage you can get.

ABI Interiors wall shower in brushed copper Build: LB Building Design: Ali Waight Image: Nic Stephens

ABI Interiors wall shower in brushed copper Build: LB Building Design: Ali Waight Image: Nic Stephens

What size is your bathroom? 

The next important element to consider is the size and shape of your bathroom so you can maximise on the space available to you. If you have a smaller bathroom and you only have space for a 900x900 shower, a rail shower or ceiling dropper would be best. Larger spaces can afford to have dual shower rails, and if you’re very fortunate with space, two showers are great for symmetry and use for two people at once. 

Are you doing a quick renovation retrofit or building from scratch?

This question is one of the easiest to answer when talking shower heads. If you are doing a quick renovation and aren’t adjusting any other aspects of the space, finding a shower to retrofit to your existing water outlet is simple. The position of the outlet will determine which showers you can choose from. If you aren’t quite sure what will work best, just ask your plumber or our consultants for help. And if you’re completing a new build, just take the above three steps into consideration when you’re planning your space.

Cascade gooseneck shower in Matte Black

Cascade gooseneck shower in Matte Black

Hopefully we haven’t made this choice even more overwhelming for you. The truth is, choosing the right shower for you is a very personal one but we’re here to guide you to make the best possible decision for your needs. There are plenty more things to consider, but this is a great place to start.

Ready to choose your shower? Our designers are here to help.

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

How to incorporate Rattan in your home

Weaving its way into the hearts and homes of many is the rattan trend. This naturally textured material brings an effortless simplicity to any application, making it a favourite for those seeking a casual but stylish aesthetic. If you’re looking to incorporate this durable material in your home, here are some ways you can make your rattan dreams come true.

Boca Rattan Vanity by Marquis

Boca Rattan Vanity by Marquis

Choose statement furniture

When it comes to selecting furniture to feed your rattan appetite, it’s important to choose wisely because these items aren’t always the easiest to replace. If you’re too scared of commitment just yet, we’ve got a few options for you later in this piece.

However, for those rattan fiends who want to incorporate it with confidence, we recommend starting with the bathroom. Vanities are the centrepiece of your bathroom and deserve to be seen.

So, if you’re in love with the natural beauty of rattan and want to create magic – look no further than the Boca Vanity by Marquis. Available in multiple configurations, Boca is the answer to timeless, effortless design and will create the perfect bohemian accent for your space.

The rattan pendant completes this boho kitchen. Image: Tim Turner

The rattan pendant completes this boho kitchen. Image: Tim Turner

Find the right fixtures and fittings

Another perfect way to incorporate rattan into your home is through your fixtures and fittings. Think lighting, door handles and pulls. A feature rattan light fitting can create soft, filtered light for your space, making you feel instantly relaxed. And who doesn’t want to feel relaxed at home? Our clients chose a rattan pendant for their kitchen and it fits perfectly in the space, complementing the brushed copper ABI tapware and timber accents throughout.

In a more subtle way, you can introduce rattan through your door handles and pulls. Whether you’re seeking a coastal, bohemian or country style look, rattan handles can be the only accent you need to complete your look.

Woven baskets are the perfect way to feature rattan in your home. Design: Julia Green Image: Armelle Habib

Woven baskets are the perfect way to feature rattan in your home. Design: Julia Green Image: Armelle Habib

Complete your space with accessories and décor

Remember when I said there are styling options available to you if you’re slightly afraid of committing to the big pieces? Well, here we are. The easiest and most affordable way to incorporate rattan in your home is by selecting rattan décor pieces. Mirrors, wall art, and baskets are some of the best pieces that will help you achieve your rattan dreams.  

We love the way interior stylist and friend of GT&B, Julia Green, used woven baskets in her recent laundry renovation. Not only are these baskets a colourful statement piece in this space, but they’re also practical and can be moved anywhere in the home to create stylish storage or a place for your indoor plants to live.

Boca Vanity close-up

Boca Vanity close-up

Weave it in

 We have a feeling rattan will stick around for years to come. Especially as more and more people open up to its versatility and durability. If you’re thinking of incorporating rattan in your home, we can certainly help you find the right vanity and accessories to bring your space to life. Just ask us!

Words: Alana Perin

Three products that will instantly warm the soul this winter

With the colder months approaching, the need to feel warm at every opportunity is obvious to us all. But don’t fear – there are products out there that will take that chill away and keep you cosy all winter.

Before you get too comfortable, it must be said that we’re not talking about wearing your dressing gown or chic fluffy slippers around the house. In fact, we’re here to share the three sure-fire products that will change the way you experience winter this year (and forever).

Victoria + Albert IOS Bath in Custom Finish. Project: Mel Wilson Interiors

Victoria + Albert IOS Bath in Custom Finish. Project: Mel Wilson Interiors

1.    Volcanic Limestone™ Baths

We’re starting big here, friends (and with a touch of technical elements, so please try and keep up). Over two decades ago, the geniuses behind Victoria + Albert’s iconic freestanding baths harnessed the beauty and practicality of a special white rock they call Volcanic Limestone™. They then mixed this white rock with a super resin to create QUARRYCAST™, their exclusive composite that is then injected into moulds to form the baths we soak in. Have we lost you yet? Hopefully not, because, here come the benefits…

Victoria + Albert baths are extremely durable, lightweight, and incredibly beautiful. There’s so much to love. Here’s the best bit; QUARRYCAST™ is warm to the touch and features high insulating properties that keeps your bath water warmer for longer. For all of you bath lovers out there, imagine two hours of uninterrupted, warm, bubble-bathy bliss. Yep, you heard right; two hours. We’re already relaxed and soaking in our imaginary V+A bath…are you!?

Product: Thermogroup Underfloor Heating Design: Space Grace & Style Image: Nikole Ramsay

Product: Thermogroup Underfloor Heating Design: Space Grace & Style Image: Nikole Ramsay

2.    Underfloor heating

The next product to up your winter bathroom game is underfloor heating. You might be shocked to hear that underfloor heating is quickly becoming a non-negotiable in new builds and renovations. But in all seriousness, it’s the gift that keeps on giving. Invisible luxury, if you like.

Unlike forced air systems, underfloor heating works by warming people through the magic of subtle, radiant heat. While the air temperature in the room might be lower, the radiant heat below your feet will still make you feel warm and comfortable. It also helps dry the floor in bathrooms after showers and baths, preventing the build-up of mould over time. Still not sold on underfloor heating? Just visit our showroom to sample the radiant heat for yourself.

Aireys Project Build: Vault Construction Management

Aireys Project Build: Vault Construction Management

3.    Heated towel rails

In the same realm of radiant heating sits the glorious product that is the heated towel rail. There’s nothing better than a clean, dry towel coming straight out of the clothes dryer – right!? Well, with heated towel rails, your towels can stay warm and fluffy at all times with the simple switch of a button, or clever programming via a thermostat.

The design and development of heated towel rails has advanced in the last five years, and now companies are offering an array of styles and colours to suit any space. Brands like ABI Interiors, Radiant Heating, and Thermogroup offer finishes from classic chrome to matte black, brass, and gun metal to match your design aesthetic. So, you can rest assured your towels will not only stay warm, but they’ll also have a chic place to hang.

Well, there you have it, friends; our top three winter warmers that are sure to keep you warm, cosy, and comfortable all winter. We know that if we were building or renovating, these products would be right at the top of our list.

Have any questions about these products? Email us at sales@gtandb.com.au and a member of our team will fill you in with all the details you need to know.

Words: Alana Perin

Three reasons why sensor taps are perfect for the home

Practicing good hygiene is a part of life; especially now as we continue to navigate our way through a pandemic.

Public and commercial spaces have always treated hygiene practices as paramount to the design and functionality of their spaces by introducing hands-free taps and hand-dryers to their facilities. Not only do these products assist in reducing cross-contamination, but they also provide water and energy savings, with some even looking as chic as they are practical.

While these products have always been on the market, the interest in them has certainly peaked over the last year, especially for use within the home. With that said, we’re going to give you a quick rundown of just how beneficial sensor-powered products are in the home.

Pillar Glow tap Image: Autoflo

Pillar Glow tap Image: Autoflo

They’re hygienic

Can you count how many times you’ve had to wash your hands while cooking? I don’t know about you guys, but touching chicken irks me, so my hand-washing game is at lightning speed during food prep. I then find myself turning into a contortionist, trying to turn the mixer on and off without using my germy hands to wash them.  

Enter: sensor tap. At the heart of all sensor tap designs is the level of hygiene they can provide. So, by not needing to touch the tap at any point while washing your hands, cross-contamination cannot occur. Put simply, if you were to install a sensor tap in your kitchen, butler’s pantry, or wherever you prep your food, the need to contort yourself would be removed completely. Sign me up!

Venice wall-mounted sensor tap in matte black Image: Oliveri

Venice wall-mounted sensor tap in matte black Image: Oliveri

They’re water and energy efficient

There’s no doubt that as a society, we’re becoming increasingly conscious of the impact we’re leaving on the earth. If you’re looking to continue making better choices with the design of your home, sensor taps will be your energy and water-saving best friend. While all designs differ slightly, the general makeup of sensor taps is the same.

The taps are built with motion sensors and will turn off automatically once hands leave the sensing range. Additionally, sensor taps often come with timers that are limited to around 70 seconds to avoid water wasting. This means the sensor taps will only dispense water in precise amounts as needed. And if you’ve got young children living with you, you’ll no longer need to worry about the bathroom tap left running.

HydroTap Touch-Free Wave Image: ZIP

HydroTap Touch-Free Wave Image: ZIP

They’re designed for access and mobility

Another benefit of installing sensor taps in your home is just how easy they are to operate. This is especially important if someone in your home has limited mobility and can’t operate standard tapware. While there is tapware specifically designed for access and mobility, these designs can often look cumbersome, so a sleek sensor tap is the answer for aesthetic functionality (if that’s what you’re after).

In addition to standard taps, filter taps with boiling, chilled, and sparkling functions are available completely touch-free. The smart designs allow for timed dispensing of water and specific hand gestures to operate each setting, making it an accessible, hygienic, and energy-efficient solution for any home.

Sensor taps are the answer to functional, hygienic, and energy efficient living. If this has left you curious about sensor taps and how you may use them in your next project, visit our showroom or reach out to us for more information.  

Words: Alana Perin