Easy Selections

Booking a selection appointment with GT&B has just gotten a whole lot easier.

Whether you're a builder, interior designer, or DIYer renovating your home, our talented team will help bring your vision to life through a range of selections to suit your needs.

CURATE & CREATE

Give us your plans, colours, inspirations, and ideas to handpick a selection just for you.

• Request selections for as many rooms as you need

• Get a guided tour through your curated selection with a GT&B expert 

• Get a fully inclusive quote for your selection

• Have your products sourced and quote provided directly to your builder

• Take the stress out of creating your dream space and have fun with the process

YOUR VISION & THE ATELIER

A private personal studio for designers to wow their clients.

• An exclusive space for you to meet with clients and discuss project details

• An entire showroom of products at your disposal to curate beautiful selections

• A selection of finish samples for you to complete the whole look

• Expert advice on-hand to present to your client or select products for a quote

• The perfect solution to your design studio needs with onsite experts 

TAILORED SELECTIONS & HAPPY BUILDERS

Get the extra pair of hands you need to give your client the best of the best.

• Give us your client’s plans, design specs and contact details, and we’ll take care of the rest

• Feel confident that your client is in expert hands as we guide them through their selections

• Get products sourced to perfectly fit your client’s build specs and timelines

• Relax in knowing this part of the build is taken care of

BOOK

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BOOK NOW |

Musings From Morocco

Contrary to what you might think based on the title of this article, I’d like to preface this story by saying that I, unfortunately, didn’t have the pleasure of exploring the wondrous sights of Morocco.

What I did do, however, was watch our directors Melinda & Trish do exactly that via Instagram stories earlier this month. And boy was it a joy to experience.

Whether they were wandering the busy souks of Marrakech or relaxing by the intricately tiled pool in their private Riad, I wanted a part of it. Upon their return, I was reeling questions at them like a prosecutor in court.

“What were the people like?” “Did you devour all the delicious food?” “Do they actually tile every single surface there?” The answer to my last question was all I needed to hear. Yes, they absolutely do tile almost every single surface you see. From tabletops to ceilings to pathways and columns, these surfaces are adorned with patterned designs made up of gloriously coloured tiles.

If you know me by now, which I hope you do dear reader, you will know that this tile situation is something out of my dreams. In an ideal world, this Moroccan tile fantasy of mine would be more widely accepted as normal or appropriate here in Australia.

But no, we as a people are far too concerned with perfectionism and functionality and ‘safety’ (whatever) to embrace the wondrous beauty offered by imperfect coloured clay tiles. To that, I say, how boring!  

Look, I know that the irregularities and imperfections inherent to Moroccan tiles just aren’t for everyone. But have you ever wondered why some of you may be inclined to think this way? I personally think our obsession with practicality and flawless surfaces has clouded our understanding and appreciation of beautiful design.

Moroccan artisans have handcrafted these tiles based on centuries of tradition. The resulting pieces are works of art complete with cracks, chips, and variations in colour, thickness, and size. They’re then laid in intricate patterns and glued down to every staircase, living room floor, shower base - and any other surface you can imagine – to create incredibly tactile and organic moments of pure beauty. That is the magic of Moroccan tiles.

If you’re going to take anything away from my musings today, let it be this: let go of perfect and think like the Moroccans do.

Just tile the damn floors and don’t get caught up on the slip ratings. P.S. small tiles = more grout = better slip resistance. You’re welcome.

Words: Alana Perin
Published: GT Magazine 27 May 2023

The Timber Flooring You Never Knew You Needed

I’ve been fortunate enough to be exposed to the many wonders of design and the beautiful products we use to adorn our homes (thanks GT&B). I often think back to when I started my journey in the industry over 6 years ago, a time when I had zero understanding of grout or how a mixer works. Now I basically dream about Moroccan tiles and how good raw brass looks when it patinas.

For a while there, all I could think about was how much convincing my partner would need to tile all the surfaces in our future home. Unfortunately for me, my eclectic taste in tiles would never prevail. “Timeless choices only, Alana,” he would say (note: still says). Well, fortunately for him, there’s a new timeless love in my life and I don’t think he’ll be able to dismiss my adorations for this one.

It’s timber. I’m talking about timber flooring. Oh, but it’s not just any timber, dear reader. This is some of the most beautiful hand-crafted timber I’ve ever had the pleasure of laying my eyes on – and I need to tell you about it.

Mardegan Legno premium handcrafted timber is now available at GT&B.

Crafted from Slavonian Oak - one of the finest and unique forms of the 26 species of European Oaks available – Mardegan Legno’s range of premium hand-crafted timber flooring is an expression of true artisanship. Also referred to as ‘the white oak’, Slavonian Oak was traditionally used to create ships and barrels of the finest wine. In other words, it’s a superior species.

What makes Mardegan Legno timber special is the handmade custom surface finish of each board. The boards are treated one by one, resulting in 12 different surfaces including sanded, sandblasted, hand-planed, and worn finishes. With 144 colours, three grades, and your choice of gloss level, it’s safe to say the possibilities are endless.    

Each board is meticulously handcrafted by artisans.

Mardegan Legno dedicates all their craftsmanship to their floors to bring out even the subtlest richness of the wood – and you can tell. When I was first introduced to this brand, I could instantly feel the inherent passion and respect for nature's produce as I ran my hand over a sample piece of parquetry.

At that moment I let go of my completely-tiled-interior dreams and could only see the knots and swirls of that beautifully tactile Slavonian Oak in my future. While I can’t exactly predict the future, I’ve decided that this timber flooring is the perfect one for me (us).  

Mardegan Legno has finally arrived at GT&B and I can’t wait for you all to experience the beauty and handcrafted excellence of this collection of premium timber flooring. Discover more about Mardegan Legno here.

GT&B is proud to showcase Mardegan Legno in our Timber Gallery

Words: Alana Perin
Published: GT Magazine 25 February 2023   

8 Gift Ideas for the Interior Lover in Your Life

If you’re anything like me, you love the festive season and are serious about gift-giving. Serious in the sense that you know exactly which category your recipients sit in, making it easy to separate the tech enthusiasts from the beauty addicts every year.

But one type of person I’m sure we all have in our circle is the interior lover. From practical to decorative and everything in between, these gift ideas will make the interior lover in your life jump for joy.

The Kenzo Magnetic Knife Rack comes in four on-trend finishes

Kenzo Magnetic Knife Rack by ABI Interiors

Available at Geelong Tiles & Bathware 

This uber-practical gift will take your recipient's slicing and dicing game to a new level. Easy to install and available in four on-trend finishes, this accessory will look great in any kitchen.

Vivid: Style in Colour by Julia Green & Armelle Habib is a must-have in every home library!

Vivid: Style in Colour by Julia Green & Armelle Habib

Available at Greenhouse Interiors

Colour me sideways, this book is an absolute MUST-HAVE in every home library. A celebration of colour and the psychology behind it, Vivid features stunning interior shots and insights into how different palettes are interwoven into our lives.

The Traditional Bath Tray makes a great addition to any bath.

Traditional Bath Tray by The Wood People

Available at Geelong Tiles & Bathware

This handcrafted Tasmanian Oak timber bath tray is proudly handmade in Melbourne. Available in two sizes, the Traditional Bath Tray is designed to suit both inset and freestanding bathtubs, making sure no one misses out on a Sunday evening pinot and soak!

Dinosaur Designs creates beautiful pieces for the home - here is the Medium Resin Branch Vase in Sky.

Medium Resin Branch Vase by Dinosaur Designs

Available at Kiitos Living by Design

A glorious celebration of colour and form, the Medium Resin Branch Vase is available in a whole spectrum of colours. Whether your recipient chooses to add foliage or leave it empty, this piece will add a striking sculptural element to their space.

Making your own natural stone homewares is easy, and the pieces make fabulous gifts.

DIY Stone Homewares

Various stones available at Geelong Tiles & Bathware

Pick up some natural stone or terrazzo tiles from your local tile store (GT&B, duh), take a hammer to the tiles et voila – you’ve got yourself a trivet, set of coasters or pot stand that you can’t find anywhere else!

Society of Wanderers creates seriously fun 100% flax linen bedding

Bed Linen by Society of Wanderers

Available at Society of Wanderers

Colour, pattern and seriously fun combinations are what make Society of Wanderers 100% flax linen bedding a fabulous gift choice. Good luck choosing just one combo though!

A soap bottle holder is a great way to elevate your bathroom, ensuite or powder room.

Mecca Soap Bottle Holder by Nero Tapware

Available soon at Geelong Tiles & Bathware

Another stylish solution that will elevate your recipient’s bathroom is a soap bottle holder. Available in seven colours, this small wall-mounted accessory features an opening to hold the neck of most soap bottles.

Be introduced to the beautiful and eco-friendly Bondi Wash products with this Mini Laundry Care Trio

Mini Laundry Care Trio by Bondi Wash 

Available at Natural Supply Co

This beautifully boxed collection of natural, chemical-free laundry minis makes a lovely introduction to Bondi Wash products. Oh, and the botanical scents are to die for! 

Words: Alana Perin
Published: GT Magazine 26 November 2022

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

Trend Report: Everyone Loves Moroccan Tiles

Moroccan tiles are carefully handcrafted according to a centuries-old process. Discover the wide range of colours and patterns of these tiles, and how they could help you achieve a timeless and beautiful aesthetic in your home.

Moroccan tiles are the perfect addition to any space, creating a timeless feature that will last for years Build: Larkin & Draught Homes Image: Carli Wilson

Handmade Moroccan Tiles

Moroccan tiles are handmade every step of the way. Raw mountain clay is combined with water and allowed to "plasticise", so it can be shaped by hand and cut to size. The handmade tiles are then left to cure naturally in sunlight before they are carefully piled one by one into the kiln. The final colour depends on where the tile was packed inside the kiln as well as how thick the hand-applied glaze coating was when it was applied.

Authentic Moroccan tiles are 100% hand-crafted based on centuries of tradition

Uniqueness & Character

Each one of our handmade tiles is a one-of-a-kind item, unique in the world. Part of their individuality comes from their tiny differences. Each tile is manually chiselled out of the glazed terracotta biscuit. Character defects such as pits, cracks and chipped edges are all part of the art and charm of Moroccan tiles.

Julia Green chose our handmade Moroccan Bejmat tiles to bring colour and personality to her laundry space Styling: Julia Green Image: Armelle Habib

Why Choose Moroccan Tiles?

As the utility spaces in our home become more of a refuge, rather than just a practical area to wash and clean, there's a desire for a luxury experience. The unique and raw feel of Moroccan tiles can impart a character to your home that few other types of tiles can.

For people who prefer perfection, the varied nature of handmade tiles may not be suitable. However, they’re the right choice for adding character to a space. As tiles last a long time, they'll maintain the look and feel of comfort in your home for years to come.

Our Moroccan tile panels showcase the beauty of this traditional craft

Applications of Moroccan Tiles

Moroccan tiles can be used for a variety of applications, including floor, wall and splashback tiles. For example, glazed Moroccan splashback tiles are easy to wash down and clean as well as looking beautiful.

They also come in a range of shapes. This includes mosaic panels in stylised geometric designs, Zellige tiles in beautiful and colourful designs, and Bejmat tiles that are sturdier and more durable.

Visit us to see our collection of Moroccan tiles and contact us to book in a selection with one of our designers.

How to Care for Timber Flooring in Your Home

Which cleaning products are best for the type of flooring you have in your home or want to install in the future? The right cleaning products depend on the make-up of your flooring. Learn more with the guide from Geelong Tiles & Bathware.

Engineered timber flooring should be cleaned using a damp mop Build: VAND Builders Design: Holman Design + Mel Wilson Interiors Image: Nic Stephens

Engineered Timber Floors

Engineered timber is a luxurious and long-lasting option for flooring.

As it's made of layers of timber veneer with a plywood base, it offers precision and durability when compared with laminate flooring. The veneer gives smoothness and elegance, while the plywood provides resistance to water and longevity.

Using species such as European Oak or Australian varietals, the boards are pre-finished and come in a variety of colours to choose from. Timber flooring can be vulnerable to scratches, so be quick to sweep away debris and stones. A dustpan is fine for spot-cleaning, but it's advisable to sweep the entire floor with a microfibre mop or vacuum every week.

Engineered timber should be cleaned with a spray mop. Wood is inherently prone to water damage, it's critical to prevent it from getting too wet. Use a gentle, pH-neutral detergent with a spray mop for best results.

Cleaning vinyl flooring is easy thanks to its composition

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is made up of multiple layers of different materials, crushed together to create a water-resistant and long-lasting floor covering. Not only is it cost-effective and aesthetically versatile, but it's relatively easy to keep clean, too.

For example, vinyl flooring is easier to clean than engineered timber. In contrast to engineered hardwoods, which warp if exposed to frequent sprays of water, vinyl flooring is resistant to moisture.

Vinyl allows for a wider range of cleaning chemicals. You can use a solution of vinegar diluted in water, whereas this kind of wash would risk destroying the finish of engineered timber flooring. However, it's still best to avoid bleach, ammonia or wax cleaners on vinyl flooring.

Hybrid flooring is a versatile and durable option with easy maintenance

Hybrid Flooring

Hybrid flooring is made up of layers that serve different purposes, from durability to decoration to waterproofing, making it a versatile and durable option.

Because hybrid flooring is waterproof, basic cleaning is as simple as using water and a pH-neutral cleanser. Just use a damp mop, sponge or cloth. Avoid scratching or damaging the floors with nylon scouring pads, harsh chemicals or waxes, or a steam mop.

If your hybrid flooring doesn't need to be mopped, brushing or vacuuming is enough to remove the debris and dust.

Visit Geelong Tiles & Bathware to explore our extensive range of timber flooring Build: Vault Construction Management

Explore our extensive range of timber flooring options by visiting the showroom or booking a timber selection.

Ways to Make Your Bathroom Look More Luxurious

Creating a luxury bathroom is more than just choosing between brass tapware or brushed nickel tapware. If you’re after simple, achievable solutions to bring luxury to your bathroom, browse these top 5 tips from Geelong Tiles & Bathware.

Use the same tile on floor and walls to create a luxury bathroom space Build: Larkin & Draught Homes Image: Carli Wilson

Floor to ceiling tiles will elevate your bathroom instantly Build: Larkin & Draught Homes Image: Carli Wilson

Use the Same Tile on Floors & Walls

For the best aesthetic effect, your floor tiles and wall tiles should be the same. Not only will using the same tile on floors and walls save you from experiencing decision paralysis, but you’ll also get that hotel-like luxury in an instant.

By applying this method, you will achieve cohesion, creating the perfect canvas for your tapware, vanity and bathware to shine. Your bathroom will look classier and more elegant - trust us.

Floor to Ceiling Bathroom Tiles

By installing bathroom tiles from the floor to the ceiling, you convey a sense of luxury as well as flair. By tiling right up to the ceiling, you can make your bathroom appear larger, whether that's a small ensuite becoming less cramped or a large bathroom becoming an expansive one in which you can indulge.

Brushed nickel tapware will complement a lighter colour palette Design: Premium Interior Design Image: Nic Stephens

Use Coloured or Metal Tapware

Part of having a luxe bathroom is having the courage to use a personal touch in the interior design.

If, for example, you have white tiles, matte black or brushed nickel tapware can make all the difference in bringing sleek sophistication to the bathroom. If you have monochrome or white-and-black tiling patterns, choose brass tapware or other metallic accents.

Matching your hardware to your tapware will take your bathroom to the next level Build: Furtulla Constructions Image: Supreme Digital Media

Install Matching Hardware & Accessories

While having an accent or centrepiece is one option, another is to install hardware or accessories of a matching style. Nothing conveys class like having everything fit into one elegant theme.

For example, you may want your basin and bathtub tapware and the door handles of any bathroom cabinets to be made of the same material and colour. Browse Geelong's largest selection of quality tiles and tapware to find your fit.

A wall-hung vanity creates the illusion of having more space Build: Doherty Building Group Image: Tim Turner

Install A Wall-Hung Vanity

If you want to create crisp lines and a streamlined aesthetic in your bathroom, a wall-hung vanity is the way to go. It's a highly stylish choice because of its modern appearance and it creates the illusion of having more space. A wall-hung vanity blends in seamlessly with a luxurious, contemporary bathroom.

Book in a free interior selection with one of our designers to discover how you can create luxury in your home.

Is Terrazzo Dead?

The other week we put one of those question boxes on our Instagram stories in the hope that some of our followers might have a burning question for us.

While it’s no secret most pages do this, I wasn’t prepared to do the classic influencer thing of asking questions from my account to make it look like we had a lot of interest. Instead, I waited it out. 12 hours later, we finally got one. And it inspired me to write this column. 

Our lovely follower wanted to know the next trend to look out for after terrazzo. In all honesty, this is a question we’ve spent a lot of time musing over for the last couple of years. You’re probably thinking, ‘years!?’ Yes, it’s been a slow burn but I’m finally going to address it here.

Terrazzo has held the top spot on the interiors trend list for a good five years. From funky coloured variants to classic greys, and porcelain replicas, this trend has really put its stamp on the hearts and homes of many.

As with most trends, there comes a time when the obsession dies down and the focus shifts to the next ‘in’ thing. And while I personally think terrazzo will never date, it’s time for a shake-up.

Natural stone, raw and organic materials are having a moment

Down to Earth

Echoing the colours, textures, and finishes of the natural world, interiors are beginning to shift into a warmer and more neutral style of design. Earthy and almost rustic, these textures and materials are being used in an incredibly contemporary way to create sophisticated spaces.  

Tones of terracotta, browns, warm whites and creamy travertine make up this earthy colour palette. Evoking a sense of calmness, these colours are warm and inviting – a feeling I’m sure we all look for in our homes.

There really is no room for flawless finishes in these spaces, so when it comes to materiality for this earthy interior trend, it’s all about embracing the beauty of the imperfect. I’m talking about handmade clay tiles, organic metals that will patina, and natural stone. Not only do these organic materials look beautiful once installed, but they also create a sense of tactility, inviting you to touch and feel every surface.

If you’re a colour fiend like me, you’ll be pleased to know that adding pops of colour is welcome in this interior aesthetic. No matter which way you use it, colour is the easiest way to inject your personality into this nature-inspired design style.

With all that in mind, I’ll end with this bit of advice: never feel the need to conform to ‘trends’ just because you see them everywhere. Interior design is just as much about personal style as it is about trends, so, find that perfect chunky terrazzo and go with it!

Words: Alana Perin
Published: GT Magazine 15 May 2022

TOTO Arrives at GT&B

Big news, GT&B Lovers - we are officially an authorised reseller for TOTO toilets! We don’t think we’ve ever been more excited about a toilet than we are about TOTO’s innovative creations. So, allow us to introduce you to TOTO and why you NEED one in your life.

TOTO’s rich innovative history started back in 1912

A Brief TOTO History

Founder Kazuchika Okura travelled to Europe in the early 1900s. Inspired by the white ceramic toilet bowls he saw there, Okura returned to Japan with the determination to modernise Japanese bathrooms. By 1914, he had produced Japan’s first ceramic Western-style flush toilet and established the Toyo Toki Company in 1917 - which would later be renamed to TOTO in 1970.

With innovation at the heart of the company, it is no surprise that TOTO would go on to create one of the most prolific inventions of the 20th century - the WASHLET®. With integrated functions reminiscent of traditional European bidet’s, the first WASHLET® featured warm-water washing via an electric seat.

TOTO single-handedly reinvented the way people perform the most vital daily ritual - introducing the custom of cleansing washing to a world that had long relied on the less sanitary method of using toilet paper. By 2019, over 50 million units had been sold, proving that this life-changing technology had taken the world by storm.

TOTO Features

If you’ve ever travelled to Japan, you would be very familiar with TOTO. You can find one in every restroom, and if you’re lucky, you’ll even hear it play music as the lid opens or a water trickling sound to…erm…mask other noises (if you know what we mean).

While this feature is not available in Australia, TOTO toilets do come with a list of features you’ll most certainly rave home about. Here are some of our favourites:

Heated seat
The moment you approach the toilet, the seat begins warming to a comfortable temperature.

AIR-IN WONDER WAVE
This technology works to provide air rich water droplets to produce comfortable washing and thorough cleansing with less water consumption. What’s more, the water is instantly warmed, meaning you’ll never need to worry about running out of warm water.

Premist
A premist automatically sprays water over the surface of the inner toilet bowl before every use, which helps waste wash away more easily.

EWATER+
EWATER+ is electrolysed water that washes the wand and toilet bowl. Before and after each use, the wand automatically washes itself with EWATER+. This thorough cleaning occurs inside the wand as well as all around the exterior. Even when the toilet is not being used, the wand periodically cleans itself to ensure constant hygienic conditions.

Deodoriser
Highly effective deodorising starts automatically during and immediately after use, leaving no disturbing odours (how’s that for peace of mind!)

Warm Air Drying
Following the warm water cleanse, the warm air dryer starts to ensure a dry and clean overall feeling.

Buy TOTO Toilets in Geelong

If you’re looking for a life-changing toilet suite, look no further than TOTO. Visit our Geelong showroom at 17 West Fyans St, Newtown to explore our display and experience the wonder of TOTO toilets.