National Tiles Magazine Issue #4 by nationaltiles

orange is the new green

A JOYFUL AUTUMNAL SHADE

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER

the colour issue

dine & design

resort-style lifestyle TAKE A TOUR OF KATE WALKER’S HOME

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the colour issue

INSIDE THE WORLD’S PREMIER CERAMIC TILE EXHIBITION

EDITION FOUR

now you can have european tiles for less

PER SQM

Concept Stone 604x604mm

made in Italy

lowest price guarantee

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available in 5 colours:

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WHAT’S INSIDE

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editor’s note latest news dine & design urban atelier metallica designer favourites elegante terrazzo orange is the new green

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resort-style lifestyle simone haag shonita rose bolzano cersaie pavilion pottery marrakech

franchise focus talking trade wilson homes ausbuild social snapshot olivia hamilton

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orged from humble beginnings, National Tiles has experienced exponential growth over the past 42 years. to tt From a single showroom CE in Geelong to over 38 stores O nationwide, National Tiles is now a household name, and is respected by home renovators, architects, designers, trades and builders in providing incredible value in tiles, timber and stone and of course all the trade products to help finish the job.

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*All prices in this catalogue are valid at date of print as of 22 April 2022, for mainland Australia and are subject to change without prior notice. Cover shot by Armelle Habib.

CEO MESSAGE

Some might say National Tiles’ success can be largely attributed to Frank Walker’s iconic ‘hellooo’ radio catch cry, but as CEO of this proudly family-owned business it is the efforts and passion of our incredible team that is the secret to our success. The past two years have undeniably presented challenges never seen before, and I am proud to say the team has risen to each and every one of them and I can’t thank them enough for their contribution. Also, to all our long-standing customers and suppliers – a massive THANKYOU for your continued support. So, what’s next? As a new sense of normal returns to life, we want to continue to live our values of safe, customer obsession, teamwork, respect and relentless improvement. We have some amazing new ranges about to hit our stores, and are excited about our new timber products which will help us become The destination for hard floor, wall and outdoor surfaces. And finally we are about to expand in a big way . . . but more about that in the next edition! Be safe and take care

Campbell

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EDITOR’S NOTE

from the editor... Welcome to the Autumn/Winter issue of National Tiles Magazine! This time exploring all things colour, from hi-octane hues and moody greens and blues through to tranquil earth tones and simple neutrals. As we prepare this issue, it’s hard not to think about the turbulence of the last two and a half years. A pandemic book-ended by bushfires and floods saw myriad new challenges arise. As we venture back outside, maskless and optimistic, we recognise emerging opportunities and forge ahead with another massive year on the cards. We have several new stores being planned for new markets and digital innovations on the horizon. With our ever-present obsession for customer satisfaction and relentless improvement, National Tiles are again taking things to the next level. In the pages ahead you’ll read about our latest news and products along with some sneak peeks at what’s coming. You’ll discover design delights including stunning tile collections and fabulous flooring to inspire and you’ll see projects, interviews , ideas and updates from our partners, collaborators and clients. Escape into a world of show-stopping style with the latest issue of NT magazine.

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Bart grew up around the building industry, doing rouse-about work for his builder dad, Eddie. He’s been with National Tiles for five years working in various roles. He is currently the digital producer, managing website content, campaigns and personalisation, our e-commerce catalogue and looking after email and digital marketing. Bart’s idea of colour is dark green, navy blue, black and marle grey.

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Olivia is originally from England but after catching the travel bug, she left in search of warmer waters and landed in Australia. Having made Melbourne her home, Olivia joined the National Tiles family in late 2021 as the Campaign Manager. When she isn’t concepting new campaign ideas, Olivia enjoys riding horses and falling off her skateboard. Liv likes the va-va-voom of pink and red at the same time.

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Starting off at Art School, Helen was always drawn to advertising. It wasn’t long before she realised she needed to stop making art about ads, and starting making ads. She has worked as an Art Director for the last 10 years, highlights including working on homewares and beauty campaigns for Myer. Her ultimate colour combo would be lilac, beige, aqua, grey and orange.

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the team: C h a rlie A s h

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Charlie is a fashion, commercial and still life photographer as well as our in-house photographer and social media coordinator at National Tiles. Charlie has a reputation for being the most colourfully-dressed team member with a kaleidoscopic eye and regular rotation of hair colour. Green and Pink are her fave colour combo - think watermelon in natural form.

now you can have concrete look tiles for less

95 PER SQM

Concrete Fusion 600x600mm

lowest price guarantee

Concrete Fusion shown in Pewter

concrete fusion

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LATEST NEWS

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One of our goals at National Tiles is to be a brand with purpose. That’s why we’re extremely proud to partner with i=Change and donate from every online sale. i=Change is a platform that enables us to turn every purchase into positive impact, and empower women and girls with 100% transparency. This means every time you buy from us, together we make a difference in someone’s life.

“With i=Change, we support these remarkable charities and improve the lives of women and children. This is a great way our organisation, team and customers can make a positive difference.”

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In conjunction with other participating brands, and over three days, we increased our giving from $1 to $3 to triple our impact and help bring positive change to even more people’s lives. With the turbulent times of the recent years, it is vital right now to support those in need. National Tiles want to extend a massive thanks to all the brands involved along with those shoppers whose choice = change.

The Starlight Foundation

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In recognition of International Women’s Day we participated in i=Change’s shop for change campaign with the goal of raising 100k.

So far, we’ve donated over $50k to charities including the Starlight Foundation to bring joy to sick kids, The Australian Childhood Foundation to support the recovery of children who have experienced trauma and Women’s Community Shelters to support survivors of domestic violence.

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Women’s Community Shelters

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“It is more important than ever to invest in women and girls, that’s why our partnership with i=Change is key to our business. It allows our customers to purchase goods whilst supporting their values and help make change across the world for all women.”

The Australian Childhood Foundation

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Inspired by classic handmade encaustic tiles, the encaustic-look Revival series boasts elaborate patterns formed from a palette of delicate and dusty hues. With a matt finish that emphasises patterns and colour, the charming Revival series will create timeless and traditional interiors.

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TALKING DESIGN

an evening to remember March 2nd 2022

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TALKING DESIGN

dine & design ur inaugural National Tiles ‘Dine & Design’ event lived up to its promise of being a night to remember. Held on a wild and rainy night in early March, the event finally came to fruition after a series of covid-lockdown delays. Created to officially launch the stunning Alexandria showroom to leading architects, designers and builders, those who attended were delighted to celebrate all that National Tiles offers in terms of product, service and design expertise. The National Tiles colours of orange, black and white came to life in a bespoke painting by artist Michael Bond created specially for the event. This stunning artwork set the scene for the invitations, table settings and showroom decoration, the centrepiece being one long dining table that seated 60 guests, sponsors and team members. The table display featured a spectacular array of flowers and candles, with vases and candlesticks provided by the styling experts at Fenton & Fenton. The official proceedings of the evening began with the Design Forum panel discussion. Inside Out magazine’s deputy editor Kate Hassett hosted a fascinating conversation about designing with colour. The panel guests were Kate Walker of KWD, Lucy Fenton of Fenton & Fenton and Davide Mucci – our special guest from BBC Italy. Our guests were entertained with stories about what colour means to our panel members, with tips, tricks

and ideas on how to incorporate colour into a home. A bespoke menu was created by Chef Nelly Robinson of Nel’s Restaurant in Sydney’s CBD. A culinary wizard, Nel’s menu delighted the guests throughout the night from the canapes to the main course and divine dessert. The wine list was also a special treat for the guests, with Penfolds wines served throughout the night, the highlight of which was a Grange 2017 tasting hosted by Michael Riitano who entertained and informed the table about this history of the company and the wine. The night flowed on filled with conversation and exploration of the showroom, all to the sounds of DJ Niki De Saint. Guests left having enjoyed beautiful wines and delicious fare, and took with them a goodie bag that included a National Tiles water bottle, hand cream from our friends at Leif (who also provided their beautiful product in our washrooms) and an Inside Out magazine. Thank you to all of our esteemed guests, sponsors and panel guests who attended, including Frank and Rhonda Walker. A special thank you to our event producer Alana Edwards and your amazing team, for helping to create an incredible night that was enjoyed by all. And to the National Tiles marketing team and the Alexandria retail, trade and warehouse teams who helped to bring this very special event to life.

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NOW AVAILABLE

urban atelier

deep ceramic tradition, Urban Atelier is a charming Mediterranean dream. The range’s four main colour families allow for playful mix-and-match multi-hued displays and colourfullycreative masterpieces. Warming oranges and reds, calming oceanic blues, natural greens, and an array of neutrals demonstrate the spirited patchwork potential of the collection. Urban Atelier’s versatility is endless. Whether colour matching on trend shades such as Kiwi and Camurca, Marfim and Sangue de Boi, or Camelo and Tempestade, or providing vibrant accent tones such as Turquesa, Rosa Velho, Amarelo, or Alface, Urban Atelier’s gorgeous range is one of freedom and expression.

Full of vibrant variation in 48 stunning shades, Urban Atelier offers a beautiful handmade look complete with an organic surface texture and a glaze that provides depth and richness. Perfect for powerful features, personal designs, and unique layouts, the simple 100x100mm format offers complete stylistic freedom to fashion classic looks or contemporary interior twists.

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Created in Portugal by a unique company with a

There is no shying away from the sheer breadth of colour choice in National Tiles stunning new Urban Atelier collection. To help designers and home owners make maximum use if this wonderfully diverse palette, we’ve broken down the 48 shades into distinct colour families, each cohesive but ripe with variety.

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PRODUCT FOCUS

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loud & lavish

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PRODUCT FOCUS

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etallica is a beautiful, versatile, and liveable metal-effect tile collection. This Italianmanufactured range delivers powerful design impact on both walls and floors through an iridescent surface with great tactile appeal. In the large format field tiles, the metallic glaze - in four colours - generates an ever-changing interplay of light that complements modern interiors and avant-garde architecture. However, Metallica also has a warm, hand-made, artisanal vibe that elevates it beyond more commonplace industrial-influenced metallic finishes, with more than 20 patterns used to create each of the four colour options. In Metallica, undulating surfaces, iridescent streaks, opalescent gleams, and sophisticated colours, all add to the range’s powerful allure.

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Metallica is a dry-pressed porcelain tile that is impervious to water. Being totally frost-resistant, and offering outstanding stain and chemical-resistance, it is suitable for all projects, including heavy commercial applications.

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The collection’s eclecticism reaches its peak with the Raku-inspired Metalbrick, a 60 by 240mm subway format that is perfect for feature walls or dynamic backsplashes. Metalbrick is available in five colours - White, Grey, Blue, Green, and Black – that fully complement the four tones of the large Metallica slabs. These organic hues offer unsurpassed surface depth, while the use of more than 80 patterns for each of the designs ensures the uniqueness of every individual tile, further emphasising this range’s artisanal quality and hand-made aesthetic.

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now you can have splashback tiles for less

PER SQM

Whoosh Subway Tiles 75x150mm & 75x300mm

lowest price guarantee

as seen on tv

Whoosh shown in Sage

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DESIGNER FAVOURITES

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our team of in-house interior designers are experts in working with colour, and love sharing their favourite tiles.

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At the moment I am loving the Materia range. Materia Jewel 100mm x 300mm is definitely a favourite. This displays a rich, warm yet muted tone with a lux gloss finish to set off a moody kitchen or feature wall.

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My favourite tile for adding colour is Materia Soft Mint. Paired with a natural white kitchen and a warm benchtop, it adds a pop of green to the splashback. It brings a nice flow to an open plan kitchen while also bringing the outside in. The colour is so soft that it won’t overpower the whole room. Mikayla Mell, National Tiles Design Consultant - Warners Bay, NSW

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I like using the Materia Soft Mint Rhombus tile when designing with colour. They can be used as a feature to create a chevron splashback or a more subtle accompaniment to stone. The variation from tile to tile is subtle yet adds interest, and the variety of patterns and lay styles in which the rhombus shape can be laid proves just how versatile it is. Ashlee Ralph, Studio M Tiles Design Consultant Robina, QLD

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The Materia range is a beautiful way to introduce some soft colour into your space with the added flexibility of being able to use it on the floors or the walls. The undulated surface and glossy appearance add personality to any bathroom or can be a nice feature for a characterful kitchen. My favourite colour would have to be the Soft Mint. Sarah Warren, National Tiles Design Consultant Team Leader - Mile End, SA 20 NATIONAL TILES

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I love the muted dark blue of the Materia Navy Sea. It reminds me of the colour of the sea at dusk. The texture also gives a vintage denim vibe reminiscent of faded blue jeans. I would love to see this tile in a mid-century bathroom paired with dark walnut timbers, brass tapware, lush greenery and funky lighting. Steph Poncini, National Tiles Design Consultant - Newstead, QLD

DESIGNER FAVOURITES

undulated “the surface and glossy appearance add personality to any bathroom

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- Sarah Warren, National Tiles on the Materia range

Materia shown in Soft Mint. Image Courtesy of @proteastyling and Lizelle Ehrentraut

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DESIGNER FAVOURITES

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One of my favourite tiles to use when designing with colour is the Materia Soft Mint Gloss 100x300. Incorporating this tile into a bathroom is such an easy and subtle way to introduce colour for anyone who wants a calm feeling and isn’t 100% sold on bold colours. A bathroom is a place to relax and unwind, and I feel like this green paired with soft neutral tones is a great way to incorporate greenery and natural elements to make a room feel homely.

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Materia Pink Velvet is a favourite of mine for the beautiful, fun and timeless way that it can incorporate colour into an interior. Whether it’s a contemporary straight stack or more classic brick lay any lay type looks fab! The variation across the glaze has a natural organic appearance and the grey undertone makes it complimentary to many of our floor tiles to complete the look. Jessica Delacorn, State Design Centre Manager - VIC SA TAS

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I have always gravitated towards earthy and warm colours, regardless of trends. The Pandora Taco Dark 200 x 200mm tile is a favourite of mine - the beautiful variation in colour is created by a mixed surface finish with a matt/gloss contrast and slight metallic sheen. The hand-sketched monochromatic motifs illustrate an eclectic patchwork of tribal, botanic & geometric patterns and sit perfectly with Pietra Lavica Pumice Matt as the floor tile. Ashley Reisman, National Tiles MDB Administration Assistant - Arundel, QLD

The pop of sage of the Picket Mosaic Ming Green creates a beautiful balance between neutral tones and bold features. The Ming Green Mosaics showcase natural hues paired with organic variation to offer a timeless look. The marble charm draws on colours and textures of nature, providing a statement piece suitable for various design styles, from contemporary to classic schemes.

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Perfect for feature walls and counter fronts in commercial settings, Colosseum Ming Green Mosaic brings a sophisticated pop of colour with a fresh and smooth feel. This mosaic can be used in so many styles of houses, but my personal favourite is the Hamptons-style paired with Canyon Stone Glacier. Brianna Shaw, National Tiles Design Consultant Newstead, QLD 22 NATIONAL TILES

The natural patterning of this organic material generates layers of interest and variation. The subtle blush tones of the Penny Round Blush mosaic tiles pair effortlessly with a variety of neutral hues creating a versatile yet playful balance of elegance and colour. Krista Taylor, National Tiles Interior Design Consultant Mitcham, VIC

NOW AVAILABLE

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A chiselled edge and the use of cutting-edge design technology give Pietra Di Ostuni the authentic look and feel of natural stone while maintaining the durability and easy upkeep of porcelain.

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Celebrating one of the most distinctive flooring designs and materials, the Pietra di Ostuni series emulates the natural stone hues of limestone and travertine, presented in a dual format porcelain range. With the unique elegance of the famous French pattern in internal and external finishes along with classic 600x600mm squares, Pietra di Ostuni will create timeless spaces throughout the entire home.

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PRODUCT FOCUS

elegante terrazzo Authentic Italian terrazzo with cool contemporary appeal.

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Available 11 kaleidoscopic colour ways that come to life under lights, Elegante Terrazzo’s patterning of random flecks and fragments will readily inject a burst of energy into floors and walls. Hailing from the town of Jesi, in the province of Ancona, founder Manlio Mattoli initially specialised in the production of urban furniture such as benches, and ornamental fountains. When he was joined by his brother, Antonio, and his eldest son, Guiseppe, in the 1960s, the company invested in state-of-the-art machinery to add beautiful concrete floors to the product range. Today, with Guiseppe’s three sons - Manlio, Massimiliano and Marta - now taking key roles, Mattoli specialises in producing terrazzo, in numerous shades, styles, and patterns. This includes our fabulous Elegante collection. Due to the porosity of real terrazzo, we strongly recommend following our cleaning, sealing and maintenance guidelines to ensure it lasts a life time.

These terrazzo tiles are the real deal, being made from a mixture of marble zo chips, marble powder, az r r E le g a n te Te and cement. They have the sustainable advantage of using raw materials that are a by-product of stone processing. Because the surfaces feature natural stone inclusions, there is an appealing variation in tile colour and chip size and colour; resulting in an organic and authentic terrazzo aesthetic.

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hen National Tiles sought the perfect source for our Elegante Terrazzo collection, we naturally turned to Italy. We found a perfect partner in Mattoli: a third-generation, family-owned artisanal producer of cement-based surfaces that has been developing its deep technical expertise since 1923.

PRODUCT FOCUS

Our range of colours celebrate that design diversity that can be achieved with this centuries-loved surface. Stand out examples include the stunning chocolate chip icecream look of Uluru; the elegant mossy green specks of Verde; or the soft greyscale shades of Smoke. The use of natural marble chips from various quarries results in subtle colour variation that adds greatly to the terrazzo tiles’ allure. This surface variety is compounded by the effects of honing and the use of different sized chips. Elegante Terrazzo comes in a highly versatile 400x400x18mm format.

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TALKING DESIGN

orange is the new green

hough it doesn’t seem to have made its way into anyone’s choice for Colour of the Year 2022, orange is definitely shaping up to be a popular shade in interior design.

The joyful optimism that a rich tone like orange offers has been a key component when creating spaces in recent years. Summery and autumnal, powerful and organic, comforting and stylish, orange is a colour that can work anywhere, with anything, to create pretty much any mood. So we’re celebrating it here today with a few ways to work this adaptable hue into your home. National Tiles offer a comprehensive collection of orange tiles to elevate any space. From the dramatic and decorative to rustic and warm to cultured and curated, here are a few options that illustrate our orange obsession.

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Aubergine, rich red, mustard, and terracotta form the fabulously luxurious look of earth and spice. Add calming cream, multi-tonal beige, and textured greys to contrast light with dark.

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Soft shades of green, peach, and cream mix with deep shades of mocha, sunset orange, and dusty red to create a tonally varied, layered look. Crochet decors, potted plants, and patterned rugs complete the look.

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A classic 70s shade, burnt orange is the perfect choice for a retro-chic space. Pair it with earthy browns and olive greens, curvy motifs, geometric designs, and statement furniture.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

resort style lifestyle

What was your design inspiration for this family home renovation? The original architecture of the home really spoke to me. The beautiful big verandas transported me to the West Indies where you find incredible colonial properties. With Biscayne, I wanted to blend a relaxed formality with an island flavour to create a private compound that was all about resort-style living. Coining the style ‘Caribbean Colonial’ really cemented the look I wanted to achieve - a design aesthetic that reflected my desire to be at one with nature, and to bring the outside in, in a fresh new way. How did you and the KWD design team bring this project to life? As a designer working on your own project, you second guess yourself 100 times over so it’s vital to have people you trust and respect, and who will constantly bring you back to north. This process helped me realise how important our role is for our clients, keeping them on track so they stay focused on what they set out achieve. It was a consultative process for every single detail in Biscayne, and it was so exciting for the whole team to push the boundaries of design. I gave my team full autonomy to come to me with ideas and suggestions that were new, inspiring and ground-breaking, and every member of my team stood up to the challenge. Designing my own home did of course create an element of pressure, to produce a home that was at once beautiful and functional, innovative and evocative, practical and liveable. I am not only passionate about how a home looks – it’s about how a home feels. At the end of the day everyone simply wants to come home, turn on the lamps, cook a meal and relax on the sofa – and enjoy the space you have created for your family. How important was the exterior design to the success of Biscayne? I wanted to create a real sense of transformation from the moment you arrive at Biscayne. Streetscape appeal is so important. It gives you an immediate glimpse into what you can expect from the home, and this anticipation starts at the front gates. When you arrive at a resort hotel, there is a feeling of delight about what lays ahead, and that is what I wanted to achieve at Biscayne. From the moment the gates slowly open, it’s all about the sight line that emerges and reveals the welcoming pink front door. Is the kitchen is heart of the home?

KATE WALKER

fter the much-loved renovation of Kate Walker’s last home, Beechwood, the lauded designer wanted to further showcase the power of a carefully thought-through renovation. “I wanted to show the extraordinary result you can achieve when you have the ability to visualise what a property can become with the right design direction,” explains Kate, who found the ideal house in the most glorious location in Mt Martha on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula.

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Biscayne was designed for living. Every aspect of the home, from the floor plan to the hard finishes and appliances, from the furniture and soft furnishings to the landscape design, each element was carefully curated to create a relaxed formality, a resort-style atmosphere and a gracious family home. At KWD we understand what a significant part a kitchen plays in our lives. The heart of the home, the kitchen is where families gather, cook and spend time together, every day. And it was no different when it came to designing the Biscayne kitchen for my own family. It was so important to me that we created a space that not only looked incredible, it

FEATURE ARTICLE Photography: Armelle Habib. Styling: Greenhouse Interiors

home has “this a heartbeat.

had to feel light, bright, inviting and relaxed, and it needed to function seamlessly. My vision was clear. I wanted to emphasise the resort-style essence of Biscayne by creating the feeling you get in a commercial kitchen, like you would find when you’re away on holiday.

from the moment I set eyes on it I could see what it could become.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

tips for designing children’s bathrooms 1. Interview the child It’s really important to work out what they want, what they find inspiring and what’s going to make them happy when they’re getting ready in the morning. We want bathrooms to be uplifting for children to give them a positive start to the day.

2. Start with colour I always push for colour because it’s such a great way to add individuality to a room. However if the parents are a little wary of using colour, we focus on featuring textural materials instead. If the brief is to keep the space neutral, then fun and personality can be incorporated with decorative elements like colourful artwork, bath towels, vases and plants.

2. Any colour can work The children’s bathrooms in Biscayne are full of colour and light. What was the design ethos for these spaces? From the moment we started designing my daughter’s bathroom, I knew I wanted to create a link to the pink tones used in the downstairs powder room. Pink is not just a colour. It’s a vibe. The vision was to marry texture with femininity, with a touch of romance. This bathroom isn’t just a functional space, it’s an experience. We kept the space light and bright with incredible texture from the Zellige wall tiles from National Tiles in the same gorgeous matt chalky finish we used as a beautiful backdrop for the rangehood in the kitchen. Facing towards the front of the home, my son’s bedroom is compact, compensated for by the ensuite bathroom. The ensuite is bold and really punchy. There are special touches and tones that link back to the Colonial era, like the retro shades of blue (and the blue toilet!). The tiles are one of my all-time favourites. These Aqua Zellige tiles add gloss and shine and texture. The tone variation is perfectly imperfect and adds such dimension and detail to the ensuite bathroom.

Kate Walker is the Founder & Director of KWD, a custom design studio for hard finish requirements. www.katewalkerdesign.com.au KWD & Co. and KWD Access were launched in 2020, offering an online hard fnishes portal, and an interior design solution accessible to anyone, on any budget. www.kwdandco.com.au 30 NATIONAL TILES

We have worked with such a variety of palettes in bathrooms, from blues and greens to yellows and pinks to browns and shades of terracotta. Any colour can work as long as it suits the aesthetic of the home...

FEATURE ARTICLE

GET THE

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with our stunning Zellige tiles.

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get the look: biscayne

One of Kate Walker’s favourite tile ranges is the ZELLIGE COLLECTION. Inspired by the traditional tile making methods of Morocco and the Mediterranean, these stunning tiles have a hand-crafted look, achieving a rustic yet ultra-contemporary appearance. Also available in GLOSS WHITE if you prefer shine, and in TURQUES if you are looking for a deeper shade.

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now you can have hallway flooring for less

95 PER SQM

Kimberley Hybrid Flooring 1220x180x5mm

lowest price guarantee

as seen on tv Kimberley shown in Black Butt Light

kimberley hybrid flooring

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INTERVIEW

talking design: simone haag

through a renovation was an intuitive and hugely satisfying process. We knew exactly what we wanted to do with the space, for it to feel welcoming, eclectic and very much like the original place, just contemporised by way of furniture, art and styling. Who lives in your home and can you describe what you love about the location of your home? Angler’s Shack is the coastal weekender property of myself and my family (husband Rhys and daughters Goldie, Clover and Juniper). Ralph the Dane also loves the weekend jaunt to the island and has become quite the side show as he leaps up and interacts with anyone who happens to walk past our fence. I think he is more entertaining than the penguins. The home is located on Phillip Island, and it reinterprets coastal cool, with my signature mix of vintage finds paired with furniture, art and objects sourced from around the globe. We have slowly been converting this modest 1960s shack to a modern (but still modest) beachside retreat. We love the ocean views, the starry nights, salt spray, the way the neighbour regularly plays Jack Johnson on repeat a tad too loud – and every weekend feels like a holiday. We love it as much in winter as we do in summer and the way family and friends all feel at home. Describe your home pre-renovation? Well, that depends on which reno you refer to. We used to dream of what we could do to the house when it was owned by Rhys’s parents. We had a decade of ‘thinking’ behind us, as we embarked on a swift and enjoyable reno when we took possession. Pine lining boards were stained black to add warmth and texture in the living room. The guest rooms were also layered up with lining boards, sea grass matting and wall lights from School House Electric. We did a quick once over on the kitchen and bathroom, retaining existing features (like the original fibreglass shower) so it still had the essence of the original shack.

SIMONE HAAG

ith a wealth of design accolades, a portfolio of exceptional projects and a roster of enviable clients, Simone Haag is considered one of Australia’s leading stylists. So when it was time for Simone to (re)renovate her beach shack on Victoria’s Phillip Island, we were delighted that she selected National Tiles timber flooring throughout. We had a chat with Simone about this project of the heart. Tell us about your beach shack? Angler’s Shack as it is affectionately known was originally the beach house of my in-laws. They used it extensively and generously - all were welcome! Five dogs? Sure, come on in. Two carloads of mates for the weekend? No problem, pick a bed or pitch a tent. My husband (then boyfriend) and I would spend every weekend surfing and relaxing in the shack, and it was there that our relationship blossomed, so to say that I have a sentimental attachment to the place is an understatement. We have spent every Christmas and summer at Angler’s Shack for the past 10 years, so when my in-laws decided to upgrade and move around the corner, taking over the title was a fairly swift and easy decision. We had spent a decade dreaming about our own place on the Island, for our family to continue the same tradition we loved so much, so adding our own design mark to Angler’s Shack 34 NATIONAL TILES

I’ll admit we cut a few corners. We had our second baby on the way and had to be wise with our budget. Five years later (and a proven track record of staying at the house virtually every weekend) we knew it was time to pour some love back into it. The original floorboards were questionable at best. We knew the re-flooring and paint would give the home more rigor and make it acoustically softened, more robust, more insulated for the winter months and above all, more beautiful! What made you decide it was time to update your home and how long did the renovation take? I think the ahh-haa moment was when we were dancing in the lounge room, a regular occurrence, and we felt a little movement and knew with one more dance party that we were going to right through the floor! Also, I was increasingly bothered by the discolouration of the old painted boards and longed for it to feel clean and a bit more unform. The house has lots of eclectic finds, ceramics, textiles and the sandy coloured floorboards have created a fresh base coat for all of the rugs, kids, dogs and life that will now tread upon them. What areas of your home have you updated and what elements have you introduced into the new look? New flooring throughout (with exception of the bathroom), fresh paint colours, some new rugs and ceramics, a rejig of artworks and just the chance to edit, re-work and play around with many of my existing pieces. At large, the place lacks in any form of amenity such as a

INTERVIEW

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what I love about the tone of the floorboards is that there is a sense of beach about them, without them looking white-washed.

dishwasher, heating, microwave or air conditioner – but jeez these new floorboards make it feel fancy. What I love about the tone of the floorboards is that there is a sense of beach about them, without them looking whitewashed. We have chosen some interesting wall colours for the house this time round – a warm grey, a deep green and a sandy colour - and they all work really well with the floorboards which is amazing. What inspires your design choices? Colour / tone, texture, availability and cost, serviceability, quality and just a general sense that it ‘will work well’. I spend my days assisting clients with furniture, art, objects and styling – and I see so many things in my day-to-day work that it would be easy to get carried away and want to bring all of those ideas to my own home. But at the end of the day, I have to refer to the core design values of the house – it is approachable, layered and welcoming – and just a shack, so my design choices have been about what is appropriate for the house and very regular use by a bunch of kids and a dog the size of a pony!

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With a laid back ‘Californian cool’ vibe, this place has an entirely different sensibility to our Melbourne home, you really feel the shift in gears when you come here. Why did you select National Tiles timber – and what was the experience like working with National Tiles?

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A long-standing brand with a commitment to quality and value. The showroom experience was great, with a team that know and back their product.

simonehaag.com.au

Photography: Chris Warnes and Portrait by Fi Storey

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INTERVIEW

talking design: shontina rose

You are in the midst of renovating your home – can you tell us a bit about the property of the scope of work? It has been a dream of mine for a long time to own a home and make it my own. My goal for the property was to find something spacious with great bones, then transform it into what I envisioned. It has been amazing how simple things such as changing the flooring can completely transform a home, I am very happy with how it worked out. I’m also painting the interior, as well as remodelling the bathrooms, kitchen, and the exterior of the home. I’ve still got a long way to go, but it has been a fun process so far. What design aesthetic are you working towards? I am working towards clean and bright with a little character. I must admit, I haven’t followed an exact style… I have mostly been following my own vision. I love natural light and have tried to filter this into every room, making it open and bright. I love that the wooden floors have added warmth and make it feel homely. Tell us about the National Tiles timber flooring you chose and why you love it? I was searching for the ideal flooring for months and I am so glad I found National Tiles. Their Timber Hybrid flooring was by far the most natural looking I had come across. I love that it was very clean and appealing to the eye, and looks so natural. Now that I have installed it in my home, I couldn’t be happier or imagine it any other way. What was the process like, working with National Tiles?

SHONTINA ROSE

aving established a successful career in the challenging world of modelling over the last decade, Shontina Rose has worked with leading brands in Australia and overseas in London, Milan and Hong Kong. Harnessing her entrepreneurial skills, Shontina Rose has turned her personal profile into a well- respected brand. She decided to embark on her real estate journey last year and worked closely with the National Tiles team to specify the ideal timber hybrid flooring for her new home. What is it that you love the most about what you do? It has always been a passion of mine to be creative – I feel as though that came quite naturally to me growing up. I love that I can be creative in everything I do in my business, and I feel very blessed to be able to earn a living from something I am genuinely passionate about. What advice would you give to other budding entrepreneurs? Whatever you do, make sure you are truly passionate about it. Passion is the fuel that will keep you going when all else fails. True success does not happen without passion, persistence, and performance. Don’t be discouraged if you come across obstacles or make mistakes along the way. Keep pushing for your dreams and you will get there. rr

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I found National Tiles extremely friendly and professional to work with. From choosing the samples in store, all the way to having it installed, I was very impressed with the process. Our flooring has turned out perfectly and the attention to detail of the install by their team was exceptional. I highly recommend both their product and their team if you are looking for beautiful flooring and the service to match it. cotiere.com.au

NOW AVAILABLE

bolzano mosaic Boasting beautiful detailing in designs drawn from Italian marbles, the Bolzano mosaic series is comprised of enamelled glass with an immaculate colour consistency and slim profile. This diverse series opens a world of design possibilities, featuring six different marble designs spanning from white Arabescato and Calacatta, to grey Bardilglio and Grigio, to black Grafite and Nero Marquina, each expressed in two different on-trend shapes including sticks and capsules.

Soft to the touch and suitable for floor and walls in wet and dry areas, Bolzano is extremely low maintenance and will not need sealing.

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DESIGN FEATURE

cersaie i

f you love tiles, then the last week in September is the year’s key diary date. That is when Bologna stages Cersaie; the world’s premier ceramic tiling exhibition. For five days, 15 halls at this massive 375,000 sq. metres venue in Italy’s gastronomic capital feature over 1,000 exhibiting companies, and draw in more than 100,000 professional visitors. Cersaie is a truly global event, with exhibitors from around 30 different countries, and nearly 40,000 overseas visitors every year. It is a great place to greet familiar faces, make new friends, see all the latest tile designs, and get a real handle on trends for the year ahead. It has been estimated that every Cersaie show features more than 20,000 new tile ranges: all vying for the buyers’ attention through elaborate staging, sumptuous room sets, clever displays, and slick marketing aids. Sifting through all these new ranges to find the perfect products for Australian homes is a vast task; one that demands indepth knowledge, keen vision, and comfortable shoes. The real appeal of Cersaie to the tile buyer is the chance to get up close to both see and feel tomorrow’s tiles. Ceramics is both a very visual and a very tactile market. The way light plays over glazed surfaces, and how the tiles feel to the hand or underfoot, are all critical. And it is the subtle nuances that make the difference; that elevate one tile beyond the thousands of look-alikes. If money is no object, you can find tiles with jaw-dropping beauty. You can also buy ugly tiles for give-away prices, sold below break-even in pursuit of market share. But, as professional buyers, we are always looking for the sweet spot; a tile with lasting looks that also delivers real value for money. This is far harder than it may seem. Of course, Cersaie 2021 was also show like no other. Having been to every Cersaie for the past 25 years, the event’s evolution has been gradual and progressive: an

Joe Simpson from Tile UK reports from the “the supreme ceramic catwalk” which is cersaie. extra product category one year; a fresh target market the next. However this was the first Cersaie held post-pandemic. Coronavirus restrictions were still very much in force in many parts of the world at that time. So entry to the exhibition centre required proof of double vaccination, an EU travel tracker, a negative PCR test, and an on-the-spot temperature test. Once inside the show, it seemed like life was normal. But it was actually very different. Having had no real tile showcase event for two years, most exhibitors opted for pared-down displays: just the new designs from this year’s, and last year’s, collections. And health concerns and travel restrictions meant that only around 50% of the normal audience was present, so it was far less crowded, and easier to navigate. This made meeting the right people and enjoying the new designs, simpler as well. And the atmosphere was wonderful. The global tile family seemed to be truly happy to be back together again: full of laughter, stories, compassion, and enthusiasm. There may have been just 361 tile companies showing their wares at Cersaie in 2021, but most of the leading brands were there: and the overall standard of design was – as ever – pretty awe-inspiring. Clearly, the manufacturers’ design departments had remained very busy and productive during the lockdown. Bologna remains the premier catwalk for the latest floor tile fashions. Given Italy’s trendsetting role in this market segment, that is hardly surprising. But today, with the renaissance of interest in small formats, glaze heritage, pattern, shape, and relief, Cersaie 2021 also hosted many exciting and exuberant wall tile designs. Utilising the latest moulds and inkjet decoration techniques, wall tiles have undergone a dramatic reappraisal of late. Last year, as well as the more obvious wall tile applications, the show shone a bright spotlight on creative applications; from feature walls, through wet rooms and wellness designs, to cutting edge Horeca interiors, community art projects, and much beyond. Many of the latest designs hark back to ceramic tiles’ long European heritage, seeking the holy grail of authenticity through faithful reimaginings of artisanal tiles from Italy, Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Cersaie also devoted a great deal of exhibition space to exterior tiling, 20mm or 30mm thick pieces that are today’s emerging landscaping heroes. Finally, Cersaie 2021 also offered insights into the fastdeveloping market for porcelain slabs used as feature walls, worktops or furniture facings. The halls at Bologna featured jaw-dropping ceramic wallpaper, multi-tile murals, tunnel linings, tables, reception counters and much more. Factor in technical tile applications - such as airpurifying tiles, self-cleaning tiles, raised access floors, and ventilated ceramic façades - and you begin to appreciate the true complexity and diversity of tiling today: all on display at Cersaie.

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DESIGN FEATURE

shop the trends inspired by cersaie

Fragmenti Cotto

Mystone Travertino

Fragmenti Cotto

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PRODUCT FOCUS

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unmistakably modern, and endlessly versatile, Pavilion offers an ideal blend of textured charm and sleek style. Dynamic surface graphics in nine distinct faces create a highly realistic concreteeffect finish in five cool toned industrial shades (Chalk, Cloud, Smoke, Cement, and Steel). This makes Pavilion perfect for setting the tone or acting as a canvas for creative design. Their simple 450x450mm format makes for uncomplicated layouts, while the pressed edges adds a touch of softness to the otherwise harsh aesthetic. The tiles are available in both a matt interior finish and an external option, allowing for seamless multi-functional designs that span both indoor and outdoor spaces. Additional possibilities are found in wall applications where Pavilion forms intriguing features with an inviting texture. The use of varied grout shades, that either match or contrast with Pavilion’s greyscale palette, can add a further layer of detail. Use similar tones to produce a homogenous look, emphasise shapes and angles by mixing dark with light, or elevate the design with unusual pairings. The internal finish tiles have a P2 slip-resistance rating; while the matching external finish tiles have a P4 rating. Both options come with a 10 year warranty. NATIONAL TILES 41

NOW AVAILABLE

pottery collection

tterly on trend and totally authentic, Pottery is at the cutting edge of contemporary tile design. Everything about Pottery chimes with today’s taste: from the artisanal-influenced glazed finish; through the compact 50 by 150mm rectangular and 150 by 150mm square formats; to the subtle palette of earth tones and warm greens. Redolent of Japanese pottery that emphasizes the natural forms of clay, this wonderful Spanishmanufactured range features designs imbued with artistic purity, natural spirit, and pristine freshness. Pottery’s tactile textures, and artisanal decorations, have sober dignity and subtle gravitas. The three serene earth tones – natural, grey, and graphite - are available

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as plain matt field tiles in both subway and square formats. These are paired with matching decorative tiles – again in natural, grey, and graphite - featuring abstract patterns of overlapping curves and colour contrasts. The design elements feature rich, dark hues that emphasise Pottery’s earthy palette. The Pottery range can be used in mixed sizes and colours. Manufactured in durable porcelain, it is suitable for wetrooms, swimming pools, and waterline tile applications. Featured Tiles - ABOVE: Pottery Cosmic Graphite 150x150 and Pottery Natural 150x150. RIGHT: Pottery Cosmic Graphite 50x150, Pottery Natural 50x150 and Pottery Grey 50x150.

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NOW AVAILABLE

marrakech Terracotta tones and accent shades offer earthy décor in a distinctly Moroccan style with our Marrakech collection.

Decorate with a neutral (White) or add a touch of colour with Azur, Lake, or Olive.

Featuring a rich assortment of gloss-finished colours with gorgeous tonal variety along with terracotta pieces that have a contrasting matt finish, Marrakech enables endless design possibilities and the creation of stunning spaces

To create a sense of hand-crafted design, or mosaic intricacy, each coloured detail has a gloss finish that contrasts against the matt surface of the terracotta. Combine with our 50x150mm Marrakech tiles to produce truly unique spaces and designs by playing with colour, shape, and layout.

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Two plain colours (Biscuit and Tan) provide the base for the patterns with colour contrasting against the rich orange notes of Tan or the creamy peach of Biscuit.

Perfect for use on both floors and walls, Marrakech makes it easy to create a sense of Riad Chic in your own home. Add plenty of natural tones for an earthy vibe, use the tiles as a rich base for bold pops of aqua or deep reds, or keep it cool with whites and pale neutrals.

The square 150x150mm tiles have a cool simplicity. Their uncomplicated design allows the decorative pattern to sing; while the textured, natural tones add character.

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FRANCHISE FOCUS

“Part of my role was to develop a National Tiles franchise network in regional centres. At a corporate level we knew that a retail site in Toowoomba would be very successful because of the size of the available premises and the proximity to Brisbane, so after talking with Nick Walker I decided to resign from head office and take on the franchise opportunity.” The first few years were quite challenging for Barton. He had underestimated the significant impact not living in the area would have, and how important it was to become a valued local identity when opening a business in a regional town. Whilst Barton had been responsible for overseeing around 350 team members at National Tiles, he realised what really mattered was building relationships and being a part of the community.

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Explains Barton, “My wife and I were living in Brisbane, and I commuted to the store for the first three and a half years. I of course did my best to establish myself in the local framework, but around 18 months ago we decided to relocate close to the site. It was the best decision we have made.”

hen Barton Castley first joined the National Tiles team as National Sales Manager, little did he know he would become one of the company’s most successful franchisees. Based in Brisbane, Barton managed the retail sales and design centres for NSW, Victoria and Queensland with the managers of each state reporting through to him. Over a period of 18 months Barton established a strong understanding of the retail sector and design sites and expanded his sales and sales training skills.

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Over the last five years Barton has established himself, his family and the National Tiles franchise in Toowoomba. He has attended local events, joined local clubs and become involved in charities and community groups to show his commitment to the area and to the National Tiles brand. Importantly, Barton has formed strong relationships with the successful builders who service Toowoomba and surrounds, and these businesses power a significant amount of turnover for National Tiles. “The growth across the business has been outstanding and there is still such potential. We are in a very fortunate position in terms of the location. There is so much investment in the area with exciting building projects that are in the pipeline. It’s such a vibrant market.” National Tiles Toowoomba: 217 James St, Toowoomba City

“Whilst I hadn’t operated a retail store before,” explains Neil, “I knew the local residential housing market. Learning the operating systems was of course a learning curve, and these internal systems have developed a lot over the years. At the end of the day though, business is all about customer service and building relationships. It’s pretty simply really. Treat people like you would want to be treated. When clients walk in the door they are invariably in the market for tiles and flooring. People don’t really come in and browse a tile shop like they would an antique store. They are looking for a tile or flooring solution. Maybe not immediately, but at some point they will be in the market for what we offer.”

Neil says it has been interesting to see the growth in the standard of Ballarat’s residential homes over the years, and to witness how the industry e as has developed in terms of luxury and Ha l i Ne design. “When we took over the business the population of Ballarat was around 80,000 and it’s now over 127,000, so the demand for property has really grown. And with minimal new competition for us in the tile and flooring market, it’s a very buoyant industry to be in.”

aving spent much of his life in Ballarat, National Tiles’ franchise owner Neil Haase understands the local building industry. Originally working as a tiler and a sales rep for Mitre 10, Neil grew up on the tools and was a frequent customer of National Tiles. When he heard that Frank Walker was looking to open a franchise store in the area, he and his wife met with Frank and the deal was done. Now 18 years on, the franchise store is flourishing, and Neil and his family are part of the National Tiles success story.

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FRANCHISE FOCUS

In terms of tile selections, Neil has seen an increase in demand for floor to ceiling tiles in bathrooms, a design style that really elevates the wet areas of the home. “And the beautiful range of quality European tiles that we now have on offer are really sought after for kitchens and for outdoor spaces. Vinyl and timber flooring is also really popular for living areas. Over the years the ranges on offer from National Tiles has grown immensely, both in quality and variety, and as a result our showroom looks amazing. The growth I have seen in the National Tiles business over the last 18 years has been exponential and it has been exciting to be a part of the journey.” National Tiles Ballarat: 893 La Trobe St, Delacombe

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TALKING TRADE

bond strength

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It’s not unknown that the sizes of tiles are getting bigger every year and with the predominant colour of tiles ranging from mid to darker greys, advice if often requested when bonding tiles to difficult substrates, in areas that are receiving prolonged hours of direct sunlight and in heated floor scenarios. As this trend continues, we are making the market more aware of the greater stress for higher bond strengths of adhesives. Thus, Mapei are directing installers towards using S2 adhesives. Previously, an S2 adhesive was only achieved with two parts, a powder mixed with a latex additive. With our investment into research and development,

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Mapei have produced a product with this same characteristic in a single-part product, a powder mixed with water, creating Ultralite S2. The Ultralite S2 adhesive has a greater bond strength and a greater ability to handle the thermal and structural movement that is expected in construction and in areas subjective to heat related stresses. Installers are becoming more aware that a higher quality adhesive is paramount in order to preserve their industry. Reach for Mapei’s Ultralite S2 adhesive at National Tiles for your next project!

mapei.com/au

TALKING TRADE

shower power Shower floor design just got a whole lot easier. The innovative and masterful format of the Bermuda Floor Grate offers a choice of decorating options. The centre tile recess allows a coordinated tile to be at one with the surrounding floor tiles, in effect disappearing into the overall décor. Available in an 80mm and 100mm connection size, the design includes a construction dust cover plate and innovative acoustic dampeners. This innovative floor grate is available 13 classic and contemporary finishes, from black chrome to gun metal grey and brushed gold.

artaust.com.au

no bull Introducing the OX 2cm Porcelain Diamond Blade, offering superior and precise cutting performance through porcelain, hard stone, and all other thick tiles. Manufactured using the world’s most advanced technology in diamond cutting blades. With a wide continuous diamond edged 20mm rim with a webbed mesh design, the blade cuts faster, deeper and cleaner than any other blades on the market. Featuring cooling holes for fast effective heat reduction, this blade is engineered to deliver the perfect cut every time with minimised chipping of material; with anti-vibration reinforced centre plate for enhanced safety, and silencing core for quieter operations. Suitable for wet and dry cutting on angle grinders, demolition saws and tile saws. Available in 9 different sizes, ranging from 115mm (4”) to 350mm (14”). Designed for trade professionals like tilers looking for perfectionism, clean finished edges and reduced work load in cutting tiles. Look no further, the 2cm Porcelain Diamond Blade is here to stay as an essential part of the OX Pro Series range. No bull, just OX.

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TALKING TRADE

clever colour To help customers complete a look, Maxisil has launched an online colour matcher. Easily allowing anyone to match any grout brand including Maxisil’s or Colourbond colours to Maxisil silicone sealants, taking guesswork out and ensuring nothing looks out of place. Maxisil, owned by Robert Designs, was purchased in 2005 and was originally developed by a couple of German immigrants in the late 90’s. Their aim was to provide the industry with the highest quality silicone sealants with the best raw materials that money could buy. Today Maxisil is the only premium silicone sealant with raw materials other brands cannot source, making workability, tooling, UV resistance and the guarantee to not mark Natural stone, makes Maxisil stand alone in the category. With over 100 colours across the range, Maxisil is the premium silicone sealant for Bathroom & Wet areas, Natural stone and Pool applications. The partnership between Roberts Designs and National Tiles has seen sales double over the last 7 years and is a testament to the time and effort both parties have put into National Tiles’ trade shops. This sales increase has been helped by Roberts Designs’ innovative range of tiling tools and cutting equipment, trims, sealants and bathrooms accessories that follow the latest trends.

maxisil.com

natural spirit Spirit NPS (Natural-Look Penetrating Sealer) is a solventbased penetrating sealer with a high resistance to oil and waterborne contaminants. Designed for internal and external use over any type of natural stone, NPS is also suitable for use over porous porcelain tiles, including a wide variety of concrete surfaces from trowelled finish to exposed aggregate. Although it can be used to seal any type of natural stone, NPS is ideal for use in denser stones that don’t readily allow sealer into their tight surfaces. NPS is not a rapid drying sealer, it has been carefully formulated to sit on the surface for longer, allowing the sealer time to penetrate into the substrate. This makes NPS the go to sealer for highly honed and polished stones, from kitchen benchtops to walls and floors in both residential and commercial projects. Spirit Sealers and Cleaners is an Australian owned and operated company who manufacture a variety of sealers and cleaners that cater to the different requirements of the stone and tile industry, and have done so for over 30 years.

spiritsealers.com

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TALKING TRADE

under foot feels Thermogroup has been supplying world leading underfloor heating products to the Australian market for nearly 20 years. Thermonet and Vario offers customers an easy to install Underfloor heating system that is totally controllable to suit your lifestyle whilst offering you warm floors when you need it. Manufactured in Thermogroup’s state-of-the-art factory in Germany, our Thermonet and Vario products provide comfortable heat and are energy efficient with accurate control. They are allergy friendly, require zero maintenance, have a lifetime warranty on each heating solution and a 3 year warranty on the thermostats, feature rapid heat up time and, above all, warm floors.

thermogroup.com.au

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BERMUDA FLOOR WASTES

The broad range of Bermuda products ensures that there is a stylish option to compliment your new bathroom.

Bermuda Standard

Square Bermuda Megaflex TM

Available Finishes

Round Bermuda Megaflex TM

Bermuda Reflections

Bermuda Flipper Round On Square

.01 Chrome

.02 Satin

.03 Gold

.04 Polished

.05 Black

.06 Brushed

.09 Gun Metal

.21 Brushed

.23 Brushed

.25 Matt

.28 Brushed

.29 Brushed Gun Metal Grey

Grey

Chrome

Gold

Brass

Black

Chrome

Rose Gold

Nickel

Bermuda Channels

.08 Rose Gold

Note: Not all Bermuda products are available in all ﬁnishes, please check our website www.artaust.com.au.

BRASS FLOOR WASTES

Our Brass Floor Waste range, is available in numerous styles, to suit a range of applications. Including standard ﬂoor wastes (round and square), clear outs and vinyl ﬂoor wastes.

PUDDLE FLANGES

Makes installation easier with smaller area to rebate. Suitable for timber or concrete ﬂoor. BERMUDA PUDDLE FLANGE 100mm IN PIPE

Designed to suit Standard Bermuda Tile Insert Wastes 11101 & 11102. Round Brass Floor Waste

Brass Megaflex Wastes

OUR BRANDS ARE:

Square Brass Floor Waste

Brass WIth DWV Tail

Brass Clear Out Wastes

Hybrid Vinyl & Clear Outs

100x100mm Puddle Flange “Lowline” In Pipe

NSW, Victoria & ACT 134 Gilba Road Girraween, NSW 2145 sales@artaust.com.au | www.artaust.com.au Phone: 02 9636 2131 | Fax: 02 9636 2498 Find us on Facebook and Instagram @artplumbinginternational

80x80mm Puddle Flange “Lowline” In Pipe

Queensland & NT

80x50mm Puddle Flange “Lowline” In Pipe

Unit 1, 10-12 Glasson Drive, Bethania QLD 4205 salesqld@artaust.com.au | www.artaust.com.au Phone: 07 3805 6664 | Fax: 07 3805 6668

AUSTRALIAN OWNED AUSTRALIAN MADE Australia’s leading range of products to the stone & tile industry since 1991. Latest technology Environmentally friendly

www.spiritsealers.com.au

e. sales@spiritsealers.com p: 02 9734 6937 DISTRIBUTORS IN ALL STATES

PARTNER PROFILE

wilson homes

Based in Hobart, Tim and his team have been building the business year on year with sales and jobs under construction. “It has been very exciting to be a part of this growth and our business plan for the coming year is very positive. We are looking forward to achieving excellent results. The Tasmanian market is extremely strong. There are typically around 2,500 building approvals each year, however in 2021 there was 3,846. I would imagine this financial year will see 4,000 – 4,500 building approvals. Construction is incredibly busy across all aspects of the building industry from major residential projects to home renovations and commercial properties.” The Wilson Homes client base is split between the first home buyer market, and the more aspirational buyers who are building their second or third home. All of the homes are designed by their in-house architect, and they are looking forward to releasing a new collection of home designs later this year. “We are thrilled to be releasing a refreshed range of homes that are really elevated in terms of the facades and the internal space planning. We are investing back into the local area too. We recently opened our new design studio in Hobart which was a $1.5million dollar revamp and we are working on our Launceston premises which will have a brand new My Choice studio that will be three times the footprint of the current space.” Wilson Homes has been focused on expanding their profile in the north of the state and all along the coast from Hobart to Burnie which has proved very successful. The Launceston, Devonport and LaTrobe areas in particular have seen tremendous growth. With just on 100 team members at the moment, the company is looking to increase its staff in all locations by at least another 10% over the coming year.

TIM RIBBONS

s Chief Executive Officer of Wilson Homes, Tim Ribbons believes the number one KPI as a CEO or business leader is to ‘make supremely brilliant people decisions’. Explains Tim, “Our role is to be brand ambassadors, leading from the front to set the tone, culture and strategy for the business. To make this possible it’s important to have brilliant people surrounding us.” Tim has been part of Australia’s residential building industry for much of his career, starting out in Newcastle in 2005 as a mature-age carpenter apprentice. He came off the tools and moved into estimating and supervising with McDonald Jones, and subsequently with Wilson Homes. Tim has been with the Group for ten years now and five years ago he was given the opportunity to move to Tasmania which lead to the opportunity to take up the role of CEO of Wilson Homes. “I first moved to Tasmania with my wife and our dog, and now we have a three year old son and a one year old daughter,” says Tim, “and it is very much our home now.” Wilson Homes was first established in 1989 by the Wilson family and it is Tasmania’s largest, most trusted and most awarded residential builder. It was acquired by the NXT Building Group in 2015. Under the guidance of NXT Building Group, Australia’s third largest residential building company, Wilson Homes has gone from strength to strength achieving 489 starts in 2020/21. 54 NATIONAL TILES

Tasmania has a distinct architectural identity and the residential designs are leading the way in innovation and sustainability. Explains Tim, “We always take on feedback from our clients and potential clients and work hard to respond to market demands. Around 10% of our sales last year were to interstate buyers relocating to Tasmania, and that trend looks set to continue and potentially

PARTNER PROFILE

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we always take on feedback from our clients and potential clients and work hard to respond to market demands.

increase over the next few years. Both Wilson Homes and the NXT Building Group have had a long-standing association with National Tiles in Tasmania. “It has been fantastic to partner up with National Tiles and we certainly share the same vision. They have been integral in creating the fantastic tile and timber floor collections in our studios. And the advice they have offered for our display homes has ensured that we have the best possible designs and materials available for our home buyers. It certainly has been a fantastic partnership.”

wilsonhomes.com.au

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COZY FLOORS AT THE TOUCH OF A BUTTON. Electric underfloor heating provides an energy efficient, on demand heating system as well as interior design flexibility and improves comfort and space for everyone. Traditional heating methods such as reverse cycle or ducted gas distributes heat unevenly throughout the room. With Thermonet underfloor heating the entire floor becomes your heating system providing a comfortable, even temperature throughout the room. Say goodbye to hot heads and cold feet... at the touch of a button.

PARTNER PROFILE

ausbuild

ith a history of home building spanning more than 30 years, Ausbuild knows what makes a community tick.

From the friendly mid-walk hellos and peaceful green spaces to the convenience of local schools and retail, and homes with ample room for families to grow. For Joint Managing Director Matthew Bell, it has been a journey that has seen the company carve out its own distinctive niche in the market, creating lifestyle-driven master planned communities where buyers can access home, land, and finance in one place. “Within every Ausbuild community, our home buyers choose from an extensive selection of home designs to personalise and adapt to their own lifestyle needs, as well as a team of expert mortgage brokers to streamline the process and help reduce the stress in securing finance,” Mr Bell said. At Ausbuild’s newest master planned community, The Sanctuary in Warner, north of Brisbane, this ‘simple journey home’ is complemented by the ideal balance of natural amenity, lifestyle infrastructure and contemporary home designs. “At The Sanctuary, we were afforded the unique opportunity to design a community in balance with nature and the long-term lifestyle and environmental benefits of this will be exceptional,” Mr Bell said.

“We are investing $11.8 million to support the area’s longterm sustainability objectives, delivering new community infrastructure and initiatives that embrace and celebrate the area’s natural beauty. This includes 11ha of dedicated riparian zones that will be rejuvenated with 26,000 new trees and shrubs, new wildlife trails, children’s playground and open parklands, a new cycle and pedestrian network, and major road upgrades. A dedicated fauna underpass is also being delivered as part of the Warner Road upgrade to allow for the safe movement of koalas and other local wildlife.” Plans for a new childcare centre on the adjoining site will also contribute to the overall experience and amenity of the area. Warner is an easy 10-minute drive from the picturesque Lake Samsonvale, a popular spot for canoeing, kayaking, rowing, and sailing. There is also a 4km walking trail that weaves along the water’s edge from Bullocky Rest to Forgan Cove. The suburb is also less than 10 minutes from Bunyaville Conservation Park, a popular mountain bike destination that features 22 kilometres of inter-connected trails covering ten separate single tracks exclusively for mountain biking. Special thanks to Stuart Watt, National MDB Manager. ausbuild.com.au

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NOW AVAILABLE

one for all

he cutting-edge INOUT technology developed in Spain unites safety and versatility with uniformity of design. It surpasses residential non-slip requirements while also guaranteeing a smooth easy-toclean surface. With INOUT, there is no need to sacrifice design appeal as the same colour spectrum can be used for all flooring inside and outside the home. Unlike conventional non-slip tiles, where randomly applied abrasives are used to create a rough and hard-to-clean texture, INOUT deploys a uniform coat of microscopic granules to create its non-slip yet easy-to-clean surface.

Bellevue shown in Ivory

The characteristic veins, tones and textures of Burlington Stone have been refined and simplified to create a minimalistic porcelain tile that complements almost any interior style. Refined and understated, Bellevue is available in five soft, neutral, tones: white, ivory, stone, grey and graphite.

At National Tiles we offer a selection of stone and wood look tiles in a range of colour options that use the innovative INOUT technology to deliver a truly seamless inside-out appearance.

Helping to minimise costs, this versatile collection has the added advantage of an easy-to-lay 450x450mm pressededge format. Showcasing the sophistication and versatility of Scandinavian timbers, the Starwood series recreates enticing natural tones and woodgrains in a versatile porcelain range. Five simple shades (Honey, White, Nut, Natural and Greige) in a 230x1200mm format makes Starwood a simple, standard classic.

Bellevue is a versatile yet compact collection, suitable for traditional or contemporary design schemes, both residential or commercial. It was inspired by the iconic Burlington Stone.

Capturing the idiosyncrasies and fine textures of timber across 40 different faces, this pressed-edge series boasts five different colourways. Its highly realistic finish is perfect for interiors with an organic indoor/outdoor vibe.

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NOW AVAILABLE

flawless flooring

lassic Oak is one of the finest examples of contemporary Hybrid flooring on the market today. It offers sector-leading looks, durability, and ease of installation: all in an attention-grabbing supersized 1,842 x 225 x 7mm plank format. The graining, knotting, and tonal range is highly authentic and naturalistic. This is emphasised by the matt finish and painted bevelled edges. There are eight different decors, beautifully curated to provide a broad range of aesthetic options. This Hybrid board is waterproof, and features an antimicrobial surface coating with a P3 slip-resistance rating. As well as being completely fade and stainresistant, they are also quiet and soft underfoot. This makes them ideal for most applications, from kitchens and bathrooms, to bedrooms and living rooms. However, they should not be installed outdoors, or in areas where there is excessive moisture, such as saunas or hot tubs. Classic Oak Hybrid flooring combines the best

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Classic Oak shown in Milan

attributes of laminate and vinyl to create a rigid floating floor that can be installed anywhere. Comprising multiple material layers pressed together under extreme force. Classic Oak Hybrid flooring planks can be laid over existing flooring as long as the surface is flat and smooth. Like laminate flooring, the board are joined together using a click and lock mechanism. This makes them suitable for D.I.Y installation. Regular cleaning with a broom, vacuum or mop is all that is required to keep a flooring in tip top condition.PH neutral cleaners should always be used. Avoid strong chemicals, steam mops, oil, polish, wax, or soap when cleaning the floor; and never use nylon scouring pads, or steel wool, as they can scratch the floor. Our top quality Classic Oak hybrid flooring comes with a lifetime warranty for domestic use, 15 years for commercial use. It achieves P3 slip resistance on the pendulum test.

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Classic Oak shown in Como

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SOCIAL SNAPSHOT

nationaltilesau

Looking for innovative and stylish design ideas for tiled bathrooms, kitchens and outdoor areas? And sublime ways to install timber in your home? Check out our latest Insta inspo.

bathroomsbydesignsa

nationaltilesauwe love this incredible green bathroom by @bathroomsbydesignsa they used our beautiful Marrakech tile in two different tones; olive & lake.

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nationaltilesau Thanks Bridget for sending us this photo of your beautiful bathroom using our terrazzo look tile Castello in silver fox and our whoosh white tile

dar_il.mediterran

nationaltilesau @dar_il.mediterran used our beautiful handmade Zellige tiles in white gloss for their kitchen splash-back. The variance that occurs across the tiles is our favourite feature, making the space look luxurious.

SOCIAL SNAPSHOT

mjharrisgroup

nationaltilesau we love the way MJ Harris group has used our crayon verdequa tile on this beautiful feature wall: CRAYON Verdequa Build and design: @mjharrisgroup

rolfestonetiling

nationaltilesau we have been waiting to see you use our colosseum mosaic tiles! they look incredible laid, especially on a curved wall like how @rolfestonetiling has used them here.

dreams_of_azur

nationaltilesau @dreams_of_azur sent us photos of their dreamy emerald toned bathroom, consider us in love. Featuring our Paloma tile in Moss, our whoosh white gloss tile & on the floor our Revival Yulan Blanc tile!

nationaltilesau

nationaltilesau What a combination our Siena decorator tile, teamed with our Siena satin marble and paloma subway tile in graphite. You can see this incredible display in our Alexandria store.

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INTERVIEW

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talking to: olivia hamilton

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livia Hamilton grew up in Somerset in the southwest of England and attended a boarding school not too far from home in the countryside. “It was an amazing experience,” says Olivia. “I had my horses with me, and the school was so beautiful that I was quite happy not to go home.” After getting her first pony at the age of two, riding horses became a life-long passion for Olivia. She was obsessed, and went horse-riding every single day up to the age of 17. She competed professionally in all three disciplines - dressage, show jumping and cross country. Olivia had planned to make a career in horse-riding, that was until she discovered the lure of London’s nightlife and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Moving from Somerset to Mayfair in London at the age of 17, Olivia fell into the world of marketing and over the following five years she was blessed with some very exciting marketing roles working with modelling agencies and managing events for London’s elite. It was a very social role, and she loved the creative freedom. Finding solutions for clients and seeing their brand grow once they had executed her marketing strategies cemented her love of the marketing industry. At the of 22 Olivia decided it was time to explore the world, so she closed her eyes and put a pin in a map to determine her destination. It landed on Bali. She booked a return ticket, but never returned, instead living and working in Bali for several years before being enticed to Australia. And she hasn’t looked back. Six years on, Olivia has worked with some of Australia’s leading fashion brands, including Myer. ‘Working in Melbourne has pushed my career to a whole new level, and I feel really blessed to have had the opportunity to work in such challenging and rewarding roles that have expanded my area of expertise.” The role at National Tiles came about via Amy Spasojevic (National Tile’s Store Design & Visual Merchandising Manager) who Olivia had shared a home with around ten years ago in London. As Campaign Manager for

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National Tiles, which is a newly developed role, Olivia is responsible for the brand voice, and for managing the external representation of the brand via media and communication channels. Explains Olivia, “I love working as part of the marketing team, which is a very dynamic group of professionals. They are such a joy to work with. We are so fortunate to have the talent and facilities to execute our marketing strategies in-house with such a creative team. I act as a conduit, introducing processes that streamline internal communications, so we present a united and cohesive voice to our clients and customers. I love being able to present the amazing quality product National Tiles has to offer in the most effective and appealing way.” My favourite childhood memory is… Summer trips to our family house in Norway, it was the only time we were all together in one place. We would go on hikes through the mountains and hunt for chanterelles, the best golden mushrooms, for our dinner! I am passionate about… Making sure I create beautiful things, whether it be food, a painting or an outfit, I put my heart and soul into it. On the weekend you will find me… My friends and I love eating out at restaurants. Living in Melbourne is amazing because there is always something new to try. My ideal dinner menu is… Burrata Pizza, Cacio e Pepe Pasta and a Lemon Olive Oil Cake. Magic! I am inspired by… Alexander McQueen & Tim Walker, two British creators that I grew up watching and their work has shaped my personal style and inspired so much of my work throughout my career. One thing most people don’t know about me is… I played the drums for over 10 years in an attempt to give Tommy Lee a run for his money. It drove my parents insane! My favourite home design style is… French Country and Maximalist together. I love traditional mouldings and panelled walls but drenched in colour with really big windows and doors to bring in light. The best advice I have been given is… Travel alone at least once in your life. It will be the best thing you ever do! What I am loving from National Tiles at the moment is… Capsule Emerald Mosaics Tile, each tile is unique and so beautiful. What I love most about working at National Tiles is… The passion that everyone has for the industry, seeing everyone work with pride makes it such a joy to come to the office.

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Hobart Store 66 Kennedy Drive, Cambridge TAS

38 stores australia wide call 1300 733 000 nationaltiles.com.au

Alexandria Store 55 Bourke Rd, Alexandria Sydney NSW

National Tiles Magazine Issue #4

Articles inside

elegante terrazzo

editor’s note

dine & design

urban atelier