magazine #7

accessible design

great design doesn’t need to be expensive and exclusive

mirage

the heart of the italian ceramic industry

costa

nova a coastal cornucopia of colour

the celebration design issue

Cabin Oak shown in Blonde

Cabin Oak Laminated 193x1380mm

Colours:

what a start to the year! With the disruption of the pandemic over the past couple of years behind us, customers are now facing rising interest rates and a high inflationary environment where the flight to value is evident. Over the last 44 years, National Tiles has seen many economic cycles, and we remain steadfast in providing our customers with the best quality and value tiles, timber and stone in the market.

As we move into the second half of 2023, our continued focus is on living our values and ensuring customer experience is at the forefront of everything we do. Relentless improvement sits high on the agenda with our brand new state-ofthe-art warehouses in Queensland and Victoria nearing completion and the expansion of our store network.

And speaking of our store network, we are thrilled to announce the opening of our new Port Melbourne superstore! It boasts a huge trade offer and is arguably one of the most comprehensive showrooms nationwide - a must-see. On top of this, we have just opened an incredible store in Bankstown which makes for a far more convenient location for customers living in Sydney’s west. And with plenty more new stores in the pipeline, keep an eye on our socials for opening events.

Behind the scenes, we are working feverishly to ensure we have the best range of products that satisfy the latest global design trends. Not long back from a buying trip in Europe, our buying team set off, yet again, and this time to China, returning with an array of new products to look out for in the coming months. My personal favourites are Costa Nova, Gelati and Motley.

I want to thank all our valued customers for trusting and working with National Tiles. We look forward to you experiencing the significant service improvements from our brand-new warehouses. And again, a big thank you to our amazing team whose commitment and support make National Tiles a better business every day.

sumptuous botanicals

the floral and plant-themed designs of the Papier Collection create a fully immersive experience that thoughtfully balances nature with contemporary allure. Developed by a top progressive producer in Italy, these decorative porcelain stoneware designs create a wallpaper effect so lush it really must be seen to be believed.

Extensive stylistic research has crafted a rich colour palette tonally attuned to modern trends and complements many other ranges in the National Tiles portfolio. The Papier Collection is available in an impressive 600 by 1200 mm size, and these magnificent extra-large format tiles will transform any commercial or residential setting into a beautiful and welcoming space.

Papier Nuages

Papier Palm

from the editor...

Step into the vibrant world of National Tiles magazine as we proudly present our sensational seventh issue. This time, we’re taking you on a journey to celebrate the seamless fusion of stunning tile aesthetics with smart and savvy cost-conscious design choices.

In an era where the pursuit of exquisite interiors can sometimes clash with the realities of living costs, this issue becomes a wellspring of inspiration and pragmatic brilliance. Join us as we explore how affordability and elegance can come

together harmoniously, where a modest budget becomes the catalyst for endless ingenuity.

Inside, you’ll find captivating stories, sage advice from experts, and real-life examples that sparkle with innovation. Celebrate the resourcefulness of homeowners, the artistry of designers, and the passion of industry professionals who have embraced the exhilarating challenge of crafting beauty on a budget.

Unveil a treasure trove of design concepts that revel in affordable brilliance. Explore the art of crafting

the team

breathtaking interiors by harnessing the power of versatile, budget-friendly tiles that elevate your space without breaking the bank.

From the latest trends to timeless classics, our mission is to demonstrate that awe-inspiring design is a realm where cost plays second fiddle to creativity. So get ready to be inspired, gather valuable insights, and embark on your design adventures with newfound confidence and finesse that’s kind to your budget.

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

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.

Rachel is a dynamic and results-driven art director with over 15 years in the creative industry. She has built a reputation for delivering impactful solutions that enhance business growth and brand awareness. Rachel thrives when developing effective creative solutions that align with business goals. Her favourite country is Morocco. She loves the tactile textures, colours and culture.

Marisa has worked in various comms roles across NZ and Australia in industries such as; construction, education, design, fashion and so on. It combines her love of nurturing strategy, connection and creative solutions. When not fizzing over a bit of wordplay, she will catch some live music, be a 5-star pet-sitter, work on travel banter or hibernate with Netflix.

B art Schofield Editor

Marisa WatsonCopywriter

Olivia HamiltonCampaig

speckled surprise

stracciatella effects have proven to be one of the most enduring floor tile trends, ranging from the minimalist speckles of salt and pepper to the striking Palladino designs with their big, bold and bright inclusions. The whole family of terrazzostyle tiles is winning more and more fans, with this style increasingly migrating from the commercial and retail universe into Australian homes.

To ensure National Tiles customers do not miss out, our team collaborated with one of the most sophisticated porcelain floor tile producers to create the multi-colour collection: Shore Line. With eight different coloured background options, the speckled surface, inspired by a shingle beach, features light and dark inclusions scattered at random. The colour options range from a very pale to anthracite grey or a subtle beige, blue, or green. The latter is particularly on trend for floor tiles, with green emerging as the accent colour of choice for 2023/24.

Being made from porcelain makes it very practical, highly scratch and stain resistant, and able to withstand the wear and tear of daily use in a busy household. Furthermore, it will not fade, even if exposed to constant sunshine and provides an easy-to-clean, hygienic surface that uses standard household cleaning products. A factor that, in the post-pandemic era, more and more homeowners are taking into account.

The Shore Line collection complements extensive décor styles, from the uber-fashionable seventies revival to the crisp modern minimalism look. It works equally well in a serious, contemporary, urban apartment or an eclectic country cottage with a cluttercore vibe. Even the different colour options within the collection complement each other very well, with one great installation option being the pale grey on the walls and the green on the floors. Shore Line delivers an abundance of untapped design potential for spaces across Australia.

Arriving late 2023.

Muschio

Luna

latest news

What’s making headlines at National Tiles?

love it or list it

National Tiles is proud to be collaborating with the team from Love It or List It for their upcoming season due to air this month. The all-Australian version of this hugely successful global franchise features Lifestyle’s muchloved real estate expert Andrew Winter and esteemed interiors expert Neale Whitaker. Every week, Neale explores the potential of each house by transforming it, while Andrew showcases new and exciting real estate possibilities. We can’t wait to see Neale’s favourite National Tiles tiles installed in these properties. Will the homeowners love it, or list it?

On air on Foxtel soon!

snappy new facilities

Exciting news, Snap Fitness Redland Bay is officially open. A space born out of countless brainstorming sessions, unbeatable team spirit, and a truckload of dedication. Sam and the amazing crew have gone all in to bring this vision to life. The outcome? A fitness space a cut above the rest.

‘Hey, National Tiles family! We are absolutely pumped to see this labour of love finally come to fruition. The grand opening of Snap Fitness Redland Bay is more than just a celebration of a new fitness hub. It is about celebrating our joint journey, the hard work, and the amazing space we have crafted,’ The Team at Snap Fitness Redland Bay.

hello launceston

National Tiles Launceston is officially open and ready for business.

Located conveniently close to Launceston CBD and partnering with JMC property group, this new store aims to establish us as the premier tile supplier in Tasmania.

We are committed to providing locals with reduced lead times

and extensive stock, with all the latest tile, trade, and flooring innovations under one roof.

Come say hello to see Brendan and the team, and explore our unbeatable range of tiles, stone, flooring and installation products.

8/10 Invermay Rd, Invermay.

hello bankstown

Growth continues as we venture westward to extend our presence in New South Wales with our new Bankstown store.

Located within a bustling home-makers centre, with ample off-street parking, it offers the local community a convenient location, product ranges, competitive prices, and top-notch expert service.

Explore a world of top-quality tiles at National Tiles Bankstown, destined to become the ultimate shopping destination for tiles and timber flooring.

Shop 2 & 5/173 Canterbury Road, Home Focus Bankstown.

coming soon

Abbey Stone stands as a captivating testament to the beauty of the ages. This exquisite series delights the senses with its soft putty-like tones and graceful time-worn finish, revealing a smooth textured surface adorned with charming aged edges.

Abbey Stone gracefully transforms its appearance with the ages. Like a living piece of history, it bears a special patina that only the passage of time can bestow, making each piece truly unique and captivating.

Beyond its aesthetic allure, Abbey Stone pays homage to the resilience that time bestows. With a smooth yet enduring finish, it welcomes any challenge with open arms, ready to withstand the hustle and bustle of daily life.

costa nova coastal vibes

Capturing the essence of its namesake, the idyllic Portuguese village Costa Nova, this collection of 50x200mm tiles comes in fifteen soft and vibrant colours. Enhancing this collection are two captivating decorations; Onda features a curved design reminiscent of rolling waves, while Praia, inspired by the charming beach huts, showcases angular shapes.

Scan the QR code to make a commercial sales enquiry.

glamorous gala night

The National Tiles Annual Gala was held at the Star on the Gold Coast on Saturday night, and it was another unforgettable night attended by over 320 team members and their partners.

Our culture is people first, from Logie style peer-to-peer recognition awards and the excitement of a Matilda’s win on the big screens we danced the night away to an 8-piece band bopping to 80’s classics.

Our team came from far and wide to connect and share in the celebrations hearing from our humbled Founder, Frank Walker and CEO, Campbell Stott you couldn’t help being excited about the future of our business. Just hearing the plans for sites, stores and new team members had our people jumping with excitement.

With so much activity we kicked up our heels, socialised and enjoyed a night of laughs as we recognised our people and said a great big thank you to our teams who continue to support our accomplishments and drive the future of National Tiles.

As a business that operates 7 days a week, we also recognise and thank those who stayed to keep the cogs moving and we look forward to seeing you next year.

This year we launched the Shine Awards – a peer-to-peer recognition program that sees team members nominated through our core values of Safe, Relentless Improvement, Customer Obsessed, Respect and Teamwork.

These nominations are then reviewed by our Executive Team each week, and every quarter a winner is selected for each category. Our first award ceremony was held at our Annual Gala on the Gold Coast, and the winners were handed their award by our Founder, Frank Walker.

These awards will continue every quarter, and have been a huge success, with over 50 nominations from all over the company in just the first 3 months.

patterns are coming home

one surprising outcome of the pandemic is that, suddenly, across the country, homeowners see patterns afresh for floors and walls. Perhaps due to working from home or our wholesale reconnection with al fresco living and dining, National Tiles’ customers seem tired of looking at the same old décor. Keen to rejuvenate exterior and interior living spaces, they are embracing the full design potential of patterned tiles.

A vogue that now appears in smart and simple designs throughout the home, particularly on floors. Patterned tiles can offer a sense of directional flow in entranceways and corridors or work as inlaid tiled ‘rugs’ in openplan kitchens. Transform terraces with a picturesque patterned patio or create the favourite feature wall or statement floor in a bathroom, kitchen, or living room. Now, modern porcelain allows for versatility, with the same tile able to be used for walls and floors, inside and out, due to their P4 Slip rating. Hence the more adventurous house makeovers emphasis inside-out design, carrying a pattern from the kitchen through sliding doors and into the garden. This look makes for a bold design statement and, when done well, can even increase the perceived size of both the internal and external spaces.

THE MOROCCAN CONNECTION

When it comes down to discovering the magic of patterned tiles, Moroccan-styled designs are a perennial favourite, and this trend spans dozens of exciting patterns: from colourful patchworks to monochrome geometrics. The combination of dark and light tones also helps to add some elegance to the colour scheme of the desired spaces.

The finest Moroccan-inspired tiles also play to another huge trend, the introduction of geometric patterns in the home. This style of tile, particularly those that faithfully reproduce cement encaustics, delivers a very calm but strong colour palette while achieving a rich material presence from their chalky, matt finish.

PATTERNING WARMTH & WELLNESS

To ensure that our customers can make the most of this attractive trend, National Tiles teamed up with one of the leading manufacturers of decorative small-format porcelain tiles in Spain, and together, we created Bali.

The name may conjure up Asian exotica, but this collection features 12 stunning designs redolent with patterns and patina of North Africa and the Mediterranean coast. Clean and simple lines, refined geometric, botanical, restrained tones, and classic colour combinations mean living with the Bali range is far too easy.

The collection ranges from a classic dark grey and white contrast in Bangli Antracita; to the on-trend greens of Bangli Turquesa; and two stylish symphonies in grey, the geometric simplicity of Batur and the graceful ovoid curves of Besakih. Other patterns, such as Jimbaran, talk to the delicate encaustics of European palaces, with warmer ochre tones complementing abstract floral patterns in grey. Designs include the bold geometry of Nusa, the monochrome simplicity of Tuban and Ubud, and one of the most beautiful, Muaya, a restful abstract in five subtle shades.

All the Bali designs share a strong material essence. Created by combinations of plain colours, the granular surface accurately reproduces the subtle texture and matt look of the coloured concrete, favoured by Morocco’s artisan encaustic tile studios.

Arriving late 2023.

Muaya

HOW TO COVER BALI

Bali designs are delivered on 200 by 200mm porcelain tiles with minimum porosity and water absorption. Thus they are hard-wearing, 100% frost-proof, and stain resistant. With an appealing soft touch finish, they are a practical and beautiful solution for both walls and floors, guaranteeing maximum hygiene and safety.

Fade-resistant, even in strong sunlight, Bali tiles retain their good looks for many years and will not change colour with time. Easy to clean with a brush and warm soapy water, and will not need sealing or special maintenance. Each tile is manufactured to tight tolerances, ensuring an even thickness and a level surface for a secure underfoot. The result is a premium finish.

Tuban Antracita

Batur

More than ever, embracing the full design potential of patterned floor tiles.

terrazzo mosaics a

sneak peek treat into the world of terrazzo mosaics, a tile collection that offers the perfect union of functionality, versatility and stunning visual appeal. Some of National Tiles’ leading interior designers tell us why they love this style of tile, what other tiles they would pair them with, and the aesthetics and spaces the range is best suited to. Terrazzo mosaics in store late 2023. Venetian will arriving early 2024.

KIMBERLY SIMPSON

Simonds Design Consultant

The terrazzo mosaic range will be visually beautiful and eco-friendly. Combining recycled materials such as glass, aggregates, shells, granite, and quartz produces a variety of colours, styles, and designs, making it a versatile choice for any aesthetic. This collection will introduce so much character and withstand the test of time with its toughness and durability. Pairing the range with solid-coloured tiles will create a striking contrast and add a pop of colour to a space, whilst the use of soft greys or warm tones will allow the terrazzo mosaics to stand out and become the main feature in the space.

LARA BOSCO

Simonds Design Consultant

Terrazzo mosaics will add an artistic, expressive and organic feel to a project, elevating any space. The broad range of patterns and designs will ensure there is something to suit every taste and a variety of aesthetics. Popular in both modern and contemporary designs, including retro and vintage-inspired spaces, this collection will suit commercial and residential areas for kitchens, bathrooms and powder rooms. Subdued tonal tiles will complement the terrazzo mosaic range, either creating a fun and playful statement or maintaining a more sophisticated, elegant look.

Glocal Absolute 600mm x 600mm

Fragmenti Cotto Mosaic

New Range - Venetian

KimberlySimpson

Studio 39 Gesso Natural Pottery Sq Grey Matt New Range - Venetian

Lara Bosco

KELITA RIDER Design Consultant

The terrazzo mosaic range will offer an exceptional aesthetic appeal and create mesmerizing and unique spaces. The distinctive fusion of chips in diverse materials allows for boundless design options and personalisation. Effortlessly blending elegance and durability with sophistication and artistic expression, this collection will be ideal for those seeking a visually captivating look with a timeless elegance. The intricate patterns, vibrant hues and colour variations will be ideal for both residential and commercial applications.

Orvieto Black Natural Marrakech Square Tan Matt

New Range - Venetian

DANICA BEATTY

Simonds Design Consultant, Melbourne

The unique artistic appearance and versatility of terrazzo mosaics make them suitable for a wide range of design styles and commercial and residential environments. The plethora of colours and textures will ensure there is always an option to perfectly suit any design project. I will love using Terrazzo Mosaics as the focal point of a space, adding complementary materials to enhance the colours and incorporating textural highlights to add depth to the overall aesthetic and take the design to the next level.

Ultraslim MK2 Verde Alpi Panel

Glocal Perfect Natural

New Range - Venetian

KRIZIA ABELLON Design Consultant

The irregular mixture of marble, granite and quartz stone pieces in the Terrazzo Mosaics range will add fun, unique, organic details to any interior space. The playful speckled composition of the mosaics will create an interesting ornamental feature, and integrating them with bold cabinetry colours will accentuate a consistent visual depth and tone. Combining terrazzo mosaics with earthy materials like raw concrete or timeless natural walnut cabinetry finish and graphite joinery will ensure a more classic feel.

Orvieto Ivory Natural Urban Atelier Beringela

New Range - Venetian

Kriza Abellon

helloooo graham street

with stunning new displays of tiles and flooring, National Tiles’ new Flagship Port Melbourne store is already inspiring customers to create their dream spaces.

The store’s modern presentation and clear layout, combined with a diverse and high-quality product range, create an ambiance that invites customers to explore and envision the endless possibilities for their living spaces.

From exploring boutique brands to discovering better value basics, we have ensured that every customer finds something that resonates with their unique style and preference.

This immersive shopping experience solidifies the store’s status as a must-visit destination for those seeking to elevate their living spaces.

Boasting an array of captivating features, the store is more than just a shopping destination – it’s a source of inspiration and a testament to our commitment to elevating every customer’s home transformation journey. A coffee station within the store allows shoppers to recharge, savor a freshly brewed cup, and immerse themselves in design ideas while surrounded by the store’s captivating offerings. For the convenience of customers, ample off-street parking is readily available.

Catering to the dynamic demands of on-the-go trade customers, a drive-through entrance to our trade shop enables less loading time and more time on the job.

Continuing to work with existing and new trade suppliers, our trade shop provides the most comprehensive range of products to suit tilers’ needs. With over 50 brands on offer, this vast assortment ensures that trade professionals can access the latest industry trends and innovations. Whether it’s cutting-edge products or trusted essentials, the Trade Shop curates a collection that aligns with the ever-evolving demands of the tiling industry.

The store’s ambiance and offering are bolstered by its passionate and dedicated team. Heading up the store is showroom manager Ricky Sian and trade shop manager Arren Waddington, each bringing a truckload of industry expertise, product knowledge and enthusiasm to provide customers with advice and solutions.

A visit to the store is more than a shopping experience; it’s a sensory journey. Reflecting the brand’s commitment to excellence in every aspect, even the bathrooms are meticulously designed with high-end tiles and fixtures, showcasing the possibilities that National Tiles’ products bring to every corner of a home.

National Tiles’ new flagship store in Port Melbourne is a testament to our dedication to innovation, quality, and customer inspiration. The store is designed to engage, inspire, and assist customers on their home transformation journeys through its stunning displays, diverse product range, and thoughtful amenities.

Costa Nova

Mystone

Timber Room

Kimberley shown in Spotted Gum

Colours:

talking with devlingrainne

originally from Ireland, Grainne Devlin’s passion for design was ignited during work experience at high school when she had the opportunity to work with an interior design company. In between school and university, she continued to explore interior design, however her career took her in a different direction and into the world of aviation. As the General Manager for an airline Grainne was immersed in her role, until she decided to move to Australia in 2009 to follow her passion and pursue her interest in building and design. Explains Grainne, “I decided to move countries because it would have been too easy for me to stay within the world of aviation if I’d stayed in Europe. I knew I wanted to return to my passion for interiors, and moving to the other side of the world allowed me to have a complete change of career.”

Once residing in Australia, Grainne joined Caesarstone, working initially in a merchandising role before moving into a sales role. She then progressed through a variety of design companies and furthered her studies in interior design, before deciding to launch her own enterprise in 2015. Design & Co. has now been in operation for eight years and its portfolio focuses on luxury residential interiors. “Whilst we are based in QLD we have worked with a number of

builders in South Australia, NSW and Tasmania, however we predominantly work with one of QLD’s leading builders,” says Grainne. “We specify the hard and soft finishes for their display homes, internally and externally, plus oversee the space planning, joinery design, and furniture and colour selections.”

Grainne’s team also works with private residential clients, and consciously avoid aligning themselves with any one particular design style. Instead, they are guided by their each of their clients. “We’re definitely a bit eclectic and colourful, and we lean toward unique designs with a twist.” Design & Co.’s association with National Tiles developed some years ago, and the relationship has been streamlined and synergistic. “We genuinely love working with the National Tiles team. Our clients have access to the National Tiles showrooms across Queensland which proves very successful when sending them out to view selections themselves. For our Design Team, it’s fantastic to be able to book a time in the National Tiles head office showroom so we can view all of the tiles and flooring we need for our projects. They are fantastic at providing tile samples that we can take with us to match our cabinetry, wallpapers and paint colours so we can formulate those selections as well.”

Tiles are one of the first hard finishes Grainne and her design team specify as they play a vital part in the foundation of the home’s design. Says Grainne, “We tend to start designing externally from the alfresco and porch tiles so that everything flows throughout the interior. We always take our inspiration from the outside environment and carry that feel into the home.”

Grainne opened a showroom in Tenerife, Queensland three years ago to expand their residential portfolio and to offer customers a space to view their beautiful range of homewares. “We offer special pieces that we love and that are not readily available to the general public. We source from both local designers and also global suppliers from around the world. These well-priced affordable one-off pieces reflect our design philosophy – that great design shouldn’t be expensive and exclusive, it should be accessible to everyone.”

14 Macquarie Street, Teneriffe QLD www.designandco.com.au

Grainne Devlin

Helsinki White

We aim to surprise and delight clients by incorporating tiles in innovative and unexpected ways.

Stucco Cotto

Pulpis Bianco

Helsinki White

Whoosh

rare beauty

calacatta Gold, one of the most impressive marble variants, is ethereal, dramatic, and effortlessly elegant. Extracted from quarries in the Apuan Alps, near Carrara in Italy, Ceramica’s standard-setting design brings out the exceptional beauty of this exquisite white marble.

It is distinguished by pronounced veining and delicate colour nuances, from gold to ivory and blue-grey. This polished and rectified glazed porcelain design offers impressive visual depth and timeless appeal.

National Tiles introduces this natural-looking luxurious marble effect porcelain tile in a versatile yet impressive 750 by 750 mm rectified format with a patented N-Plus polished surface finish. Coupled with a white background, the colours of Calacatta Gold are subtly neutral and easily paired with dark or light woods to highlight or downplay architectural elements. Other uses include bold feature walls, luxurious fully-tiled bathrooms, or as a facing to elevate an entrance hall.

In the bathroom, increasingly seen as a space of luxury and opulence, Calacatta Gold is perfect for vanities, shower walls, and tub surrounds because it is so easy to wipe down and keep clean.

Calacatta Marble is a popular choice in non-traffic areas, like fireplace surrounds and hearths, for its modern appeal and the visual variety of its surface patterns.

Calcatta Gold

Calcatta Gold

talking with alex nation

alex Nation is a much-loved media identity known for winning season 4 of The Bachelor Australia in 2013, appearing on Bachelor In Paradise in 2018 and starring in Drunk History in 2020. She also had radio shows on Southern FM and Casey Radio and recently launched a podcast called ‘MA15+’ with Maggie Chretien.

She and her partner Carson Jory have now embarked on their own adventure, with the birth of their second child Pearl (born in April). Pearl, together with Max who is two years old and Alex’s son Elijah who is 12, completes the young family.

When they were pregnant with Max, Carson and Alex started planning a bathroom renovation that very quickly turned into a complete home rebuild. The original weatherboard homestead was built in the 1950s with a small extension added in the 1970s. The property, located in Leneva just outside Wodonga, was a sheep station that was subdivided into smaller lots around 20 years ago. Carson purchased the two-acre property in 2018, complete with the original shearing shed, and Alex joined him in 2020.

The couple decided to dive in the deep end and undertake a full-scale renovation rather than just the bathroom idea. Carson has his own bathroom renovation and tiling business, so his skill base was a significant advantage. He also managed the design, under Alex’s strict supervision. Says Carson, “My fiancé’s approval process was more demanding and taxing than the Councils, but once I had her go ahead in writing it was full steam ahead!”

After updating the bedrooms and restoring the original artdeco style ceiling roses and architraves, Alex and Carson started on their extension which effectively doubles the footprint of the home, and includes a master suite, main bathroom, guest bedroom and laundry.

“The design style really is an eclectic mix,” says Alex. The wrap-around verandas and traditional galvanised roof reflect the architectural detail and feel of the original farmhouse, whilst the Art-Deco features in the interior have been updated with a modern farmhouse colour palette. Contemporary windows allow the natural light to flood in, and the burnished concrete floors have a raw, matt finish that feels wonderful underfoot. “We certainly didn’t want to play it safe with the design and the styling,” adds Carson. “So many people are nervous to add their own personality. We wanted to add character, make a statement and create a home with soul.”

In terms of the tiling, Carson had worked closely with the National Tiles store in Wodonga for the last ten years, so he had already formed a great relationship with the team there. When discussing the design concept for their renovation, the design team introduced Carson and Alex to the Fragmenti Cotto range which was perfect for the bathroom and ensuite. Says Carson, “These tiles honestly look so amazing. We laid them vertically and the effect of the tone and texture is incredible. The tiles work perfectly with the burnished concrete floors and brushed brass tapware.”

For the kitchen they featured National Tiles’ Costa Nova tiles, floor to ceiling with a tiled integrated rangehood which Carson created. “The kitchen is so striking, and lots of fun visually,” adds Alex. “It has so much character. Carson made the custom concrete benchtops himself, creating his own moulds on site. They work perfectly with the sage green cabinetry, so we carried this look through into the laundry as well.”

The home itself is not large, but they have been really creative with the space planning, highlighting the 3m ceilings and creating a real sense of space. “It has been life-changing,” says Alex. “The last 12 months have been so challenging, living in three different homes whilst the renovations were underway, whilst going through a pregnancy, and raising a toddler and a pre-teenager. And doing a mini renovation on our own B & B property in Beechworth. So now Pearl has arrived safely, our Beechworth property is rented out, and we are absolutely loving living in our home. Life feels beautiful.”

Next on the agenda is the landscaping which is a work-inprogress. “Our garden is amazing and really well established,” explains Carson. “I’ve planted over a hundred native trees and grasses over the last five years, but there’s so much more to do which we will enjoy undertaking over the next few years.”

Alex and Carson are proud to announce their latest venture, a short-term stay platform cleverly called Stay Nation. Homeowners who have investment properties they want to rent out can register their homes with Stay Nation and enjoy Alex and Carson’s first-class management service. www.staynation.com.au

These tiles honestly look so amazing. We laid them vertically, and the effect of the tone and texture is incredible.

Regal Tile

259x273mm

Regal shown in Rose Pink

Colours:

the heart of the ceramic industry

italian tile manufacturer Mirage was established in 1973 and has always been recognised in the field of porcelain tiles for their unconventional applications and innovative outdoor tiles. The tile plant located in Pavullo in Northern Italy is a hive of bustling activity, with an immense production line of autonomous loaders. The pristine facility houses a smooth operation, with kilns (some of which are longer than 200m) running day and night and all operations highly automated. Hundreds of lorries are loaded every day to deliver 1.5 million kg to over 130 countries worldwide.

We spoke with Managing Director, Mauro Mazzi, about what it takes to run such a massive operation with such precision and how the organisation is responding to the climate crisis.

Mauro you were born in Sassuolo, the beating heart of the Italian ceramic industry. Were ceramics, design and manufacturing always destined to play a part in your life’s journey?

The Modena area is particularly blessed as there are other strong industries alongside ceramics. During my graduation studies I had experiences in both the ceramics and mechanical industries, but it was the former one that fascinated me the most due to its emphasis on design and marketing. Already in the 1990s this industry was starting to tie the logic of the industrial production of tiles to the

fashion industry. There was already a strong effort to design trendy collections, to study colours that were popular in the furniture business or even in the clothing industry. The first collaborations with important brands of the luxury clothing industry started at that time. And I think this is the beauty of the ceramic industry: the endeavour to manufacture unique pieces of design and decoration through the most efficient, fully automated, and industrialised processes. It may sound paradoxical, but that is precisely what happens in our plants every day.

Over the last 20 years what has been the most significant development in the ceramic industry?

Mauro Mazzi Managing Director

The last 20 years have profoundly changed the industry with a number of acquisitions, and this consolidation into groups is the most crucial aspect in a capital-intensive industry where economies of scale are essential to maintain global competitiveness. Mirage itself greatly benefited from its acquisition by Gruppo Concorde S.p.A. in 2004, which is now one of the largest and most influential ceramic groups in the industry. We have also seen a lot of product innovation with larger format tiles of interest to different market channels and applications, thicker and thinner formats (suitable for wall applications and outdoor) and the designs are more sophisticated with impressive technical characteristics. However, one thing never changes - the production process. While there have been innovations in the machinery for pressing, decorating, and tile and slab handling and sorting, the fundamental aspects have remained consistent.

In a world of abundance, you have said that you believe in the importance of relationships, and working with people you trust. The association between Mirage and National Tiles goes back many years, has it been a mutually beneficial and very successful collaboration?

We firmly believe that the future success of Mirage depends upon the quality of the partnerships we establish and strengthen. More and more, buyers seek a product that not only meets their design and functionality requirements, they also desire to purchase from companies they respect, share values and visions with, and trust. This is why it is so important that producers and distributors share the same values, vision, and approach to the market.

National Tiles has been a great fit with our culture and values right from the beginning. This is precisely why our partnership has been so successful for both parties.

Do you encourage the Mirage design team to constantly reimagine your tile offering?

The product remains the key thing and cannot be taken for granted. We strive to innovate and to launch a mix of collections that can have a vast market and also that can be unique and appealing. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to create beautiful and innovative products. We are also continuously widening our offer. We aim to be a one-stop company for every designer.

What is your view on the ceramics industry in Australia, and do you see the Australian market in line with or vastly different from European trends?

Australia is a big, well-educated and refined market. Despite being geographically distant from Italy, it has experienced a similar convergence of tastes like many other countries worldwide. What Mirage offers goes beyond a mere product; it embodies a perception of lifestyle: the Italian lifestyle and its concept of beauty and elegance. This is what our collections represent, and it is something that appeals to the sophisticated clientele in Australia too.

The climate emergency is at the forefront of all manufacturing worldwide, and the ceramic industry would be no exception. How significant is Mirage’s strategic response to this global issue, and is renewable energy at the forefront of the company’s ethos?

I think it was Einstein who said ‘every crisis is an opportunity to improve’. And this is exactly what it is happening now. The war in Ukraine has highlighted the potential weakness of a globalized supply chain and the strong energy external dependence of Europe on carbon fuels. The latter is particularly important because while the climate emergency and the pursuit of carbon neutrality were already on Europe’s agenda, very few industries had taken serious action on it prior to the war. And while climate change may not be an appealing reason to change for everyone, when it becomes an economic reason then almost everybody understands it.

Mirage has always been concerned about its environmental impact. To be honest, we initially did it also because we saw it as a way to be more efficient and competitive. However, our approach has now changed. We actively seek areas where we can improve

What Mirage offers goes beyond a mere product; it embodies a perception of lifestyle

Glocal

and minimise our environmental footprint as much as possible, and from there, we take action. It is not merely a matter of sustainability, but rather a matter of responsibility that we all share.

As a major ceramic manufacturer, is energy your biggest challenge, and how achievable are the current carbon neutrality targets?

Energy is certainly our greatest challenge for the future. What makes it particularly complex is that it doesn’t solely depend on our decisions as a company and there are multiple infrastructures that need to be updated or completely transformed. This is especially true when it comes to innovating industrial machines, such as kilns and dryers. We are currently exploring the possibility and investing in replacing our dryers and kilns with models that operate using recovered heat and hydrogen, which would result in significant CO2 savings. Companies that have the courage to invest in such innovative technologies provide suppliers with an opportunity to demonstrate that these innovations are scalable, and carbon neutrality goals can be achieved. But it takes time.

What other key initiatives form Mirage’s strategic response to climate change issues?

We have an internal team of people who work continuously on this. We need to think how to reduce our impact as a whole. While carbon footprint is often discussed, ecological footprint is a more comprehensive and less discussed concept. It is crucial to examine every aspect of our production process: from the packaging that we use to the way we ship; from the paper we use in our catalogues to the number of paper catalogues we actually need. We need to question ourselves regarding everything we do and the manner in which we do it, in order to assess its impact. We will not be able to change everything at once, but the journey has started.

What does the future look like for Mirage?

I am proud of what we, as a team, have achieved at Mirage over the last 20 years. We have certainly contributed to growing a successful company and given those who work with us the chance to prove themselves, grow personally, professionally and economically, and contributed to the well-being of many families. This team, with its values and attitude, is the best guarantee for our partners around the world as well.

Glocal

Glocal

Glocal

unforgettable minimalism

A timeless style where minimalism transcends mere functionality and becomes a design statement of artistic expression. Motley is leaving an indelible mark on the interior design world.

Classic split slates with clear grains and soft shading fused with sedimentary stones of a fine-grained base and stronger colours make for a fresh stone aesthetic that does not exist in nature.

Motley comes in seven colours, from the pale warm shades of Mediterranean stones to dark greys that align with the colours of Alpine slates.

Whether adorning the floors of a contemporary living space or gracing the walls of a luxurious bathroom, this collection adds a refined elegance to any setting.

Arriving late 2023.

Motley Alamont

Motley Wembley

Gelati shown in White Gloss

Gelati Tile

125x125mm gloss and matt

Colours:

insider story

JODI BANFIELD QLD Retail State Manager

Jodi Banfield

Jodi Banfield joined the local National Tiles’ Gold Coast team five years ago, initially in a part-time retail administration role after being on maternity leave from her previous position at Billabong. “Becoming a State Manager was definitely not something I could foresee in my future at that time,” says Jodi. “However, by the end of that year a position as the QLD State Manager became available so I stepped into that role in a temporary position before taking it on permanently.”

A demanding role, Jodi manages store compliance across all of the Queensland stores. She trains 50 or so team members and builds team culture – and visits all stores to ensure that the ‘go-to-markets’ are rolled out effectively, that the teams are performing at their optimum level and that rosters are within budget. Adds Jodi “Essentially it is the day-to-day operational management of the ten QLD stores as well as providing support for the four franchisees.”

“I have been given so many opportunities since joining National Tiles, moving into the State Manager role and overseeing the opening and rollout of the new Alexandria store in Sydney. Personally, it has been really rewarding to see the longevity of my store managers, some of whom have also been in their roles for around five years. The retail market often sees a lot of staff movement so maintaining great people is so important.”

Jodi believes the most exciting and rewarding aspect of her role is seeing her team members develop their own career paths within the organisation, and helping create a wonderful culture where everyone helps and supports each other. “And the National Tiles range of product is amazing, I particularly love the Norr Melk range, which I am planning to use in my own ensuite bathroom renovation.”

JASON KELLETT National Installation & Site Support Manager

It was 2010 when Jason Kellett joined the National Tiles team. He had completed an apprenticeship in construction and after working on high-rise buildings for three years and taking extended paternity leave, he did a 12-month stint in the tiling industry. When the National Tiles Springwood was opening, he gave a friend a hand helping with the set up before starting a position running the warehouse.

Jason worked in that role for around 15 months whilst being heavily involved in the launch of four new QLD stores. He was then offered the opportunity to provide site support to National Tiles’ major builders in QLD, which evolved into offering site support to major builders in each state. “Growing the sites in each state became the key part of my role at National Tiles,” explains Jason. “Being involved from the early stages of new store openings was really instrumental in providing me with a strong foundation for the core of the business, and the size of the organisation ensured tremendous growth for me personally.”

“My job involves a lot of problem-solving and liaising with a wide variety of departments within the business, including the tile installation operation in NSW which is very challenging.” Out of the box thinking is really important to manage operational issues. Design estimations and accurate costings are key aspects of what Jason does, plus on-site and warehouse support, and maintaining an attractive offering to keep and source high-level tiling and flooring contractors. Adds Jason, “It’s very mentally demanding with varied aspects that have to be juggled every day, so I am extremely lucky to be working with such a hard-working and supportive team.”

For Jason, it’s the culture of National Tiles that inspires his passion and loyalty, and the people he works with every day. “We have a lot of great people within the organisation, and they have worked in the business for a long time. Many of them have become close friends as well. I love the challenge, and really enjoy the freedom of running my own team, and that I am trusted to do my job. I always keep my eye on the technical aspects of tiling, and developments in tiling methods and installation so that we are always on top of new techniques, health and safety issues and product innovations. The challenge is to train our tilers to adopt positive new ways of working, and it’s so rewarding to see the results.”

JasonKellett

CASSANDRA JACOBSSON National Order Support Manager

Cassandra started working at National Tiles in early 2020, around six weeks before the first lockdown.” It was quite the adventure!” says Cassandra. Originally from Sweden, she arrived in Australia in 2014 for a backpacking holiday, traveling with her Irish partner. When the couple decided to stay in Australia, Cassandra worked in customer service and became really passionate about encouraging and coaching females into more senior roles. She really wanted to work in a large company where she could grow within the organisation and be instrumental in a profession that offered first-class customer service.

Today Cassandra looks after the National Tiles’ Order Support Team across three locations. She works closely with her teams every day, coaching and developing them to help them reach their full potential and drive the ultimate customer experience. Over the last few years, they have made significant changes to streamline systems and offer the best possible service for valued customers, and for the long-term success of the business. Explains Cassandra, “When I started there were 25 people working in order support, and the old-school systems like desk phones and filing cabinets really needed updating. There are still standing jokes in our team about how many Post-it notes we used. COVID-19 was very positive for us in terms of stepping up the way we operate, and we learned so much. At the time of the pending lockdowns, our main goal was to keep supporting our customers and the business whilst having minimal operational impact on the team. In order to do this, we made a quick decision to move the entire team to an online phone system. The changeover happened in three days so that the customer service team could work from home in the most effective way possible. It was an amazing representation of teamwork within and across the business.”

Cassandra gains a lot of satisfaction from seeing the growth and development of the team and the standard of service that National Tiles provides for the volume of customers. Say Cassandra, “The teamwork behind the customer service offering is extraordinary. It’s so rewarding to see the level of service, from the point of sale and the initial customer interaction - to our purchasing team filling the order and our warehouse team packing and sending the stock to site. In the midst of it all is our Order Support Team, coordinating and liaising with our customers.”

She adds, “It’s exciting to problem solve and find solutions, and to ensure every customer has a positive experience. The next step in the growth of the service team is to get an insight into all areas of the business so we have a better understanding of the operations, get a glimpse into how every aspect of the business performs and have more understanding of our incredible range of products.”

JAMES GROSE National Operations Manager

JamesGrose

James Grose grew up in Geelong and is one of National Tiles’ longest-serving professionals. He started working in National Tiles when he was 15 years old whilst in high school, applying for a part-time job cleaning the showroom. Now 23 years later he is the company’s National Operations Manager based out of the Gold Coast in Qld.

His life at National Tiles in the early days was made of a mix of part-time roles, from casual work building display boards for the sales reps in the stores and cleaning the forklifts and company vehicles on a weekend, to taking up a sales role in the Grovedale store. He progressed through the company working across the country, from the finance team to looking after the order support team, to managing retail or DC warehouses where the bulk of his time was focused on logistics and operations.

James now is firmly committed to looking after National Tiles’ distribution centres (in Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, NSW and South Australia), and he also manages all of the transportation. James explains, “There’s no typical day at National Tiles, each day usually starting between 4.30am and 5am. At the moment we’re rolling out the warehouse management system and opening new warehouses in Melbourne and Brisbane so there’s a lot of planning and improving our processes. With around 80 team members across the DC’s there’s a fair degree of people management. Depending on the day I finish between 4pm and 6pm. My standard hours have very rarely been less than 55 to 60 hours per week, and I love what I do.”

For James it’s the people who make working so pleasurable. “The people I have worked with over my entire career at National Tiles have been amazing. I’ve made some great friendships and most of my closest friends work within the organisation, many of whom are long-standing employees. I actually met my wife through the business, she’s been working at National Tiles for 14 years. She had an opportunity to become the EA to the head of sales based out of Brisbane, and as my role is national, we decided to move from Melbourne to the Gold Coast.”

He also loves the challenge. Adds James, “No two days are the same, so there is always something exciting to tackle. I travel from state to state all the time. The opportunities at National Tiles are amazing and the promotions within the organisation are immense.”

national Tiles timber flooring is hard-wearing, climate stable and stunning.

Inspired by European oaks and Australian hardwoods, it features a stylish spectrum of modern and classic colours. Comprehensive colourways span light to dark, blondes to chocolate browns, camels in traditional nested straight planks, and herringbone ranges in mid-to-light tones for that extraluxe look.

Extremely simple to maintain, our timber flooring will stay beautiful for years to come by following a few simple care and maintenance guidelines. Specifically developed for wood and cork finishes, our Bona flooring cleaning systems include the Bona timber spray mop, wood floor cleaner refills, spare dusting and cleaning pads.

National Tiles is one of the few retailers to offer both tile and timber flooring options, meaning you can get your entire home’s flooring, including a range of package options, under one roof.

Concept Oak

Concept Oak

hamptons diaries

emma has an innate sense of design and a love of all things Hamptons-style. “I love the coastal colour palette and I’m so inspired by the relaxed yet classic vibe of the aesthetic.”

Her passion for design stimulated the Hamptons Diaries, an Instagram and Facebook page that Emma launched a few years ago, originally as a hobby to document her own renovation journey. Her following has grown naturally and organically, and her style has evolved. “The concept started with the Hamptons-style look, but as my own style has developed, so has the platform. Every interior I develop now has the relaxed feel of the Hampton-style aesthetic, but with a classic twist or traditional element that mixes old and new.”

Now renovating her second home in Melbourne’s western suburbs, Emma is documenting the design journey. Having lived in the property for five years, Emma and her husband began renovating the 1986 home room by room, elevating the large traditional American-style home to new heights.

She was always a fan of the National Tiles range of product, and the large selection of tiles on offer. She had worked with the National Tiles store in Sunshine in Victoria for her first renovation, and now with her current home she has selected some magnificent tiles to use as key features in innovative ways. One of the most magnificent spaces in Emma’s home is the jacuzzi which is located in the interior of the house. She selected the Carrara Marble Fan Mosaic tiles which were expertly laid, complete with gold trim, within the jacuzzi and the surrounds to create the most luxurious ‘at home’ spa experience. “We use it all the time, the kids love it, and we can use it all year round.”

Emma wanted to pay homage to her Lebanese heritage, so for her kitchen splashback she selected a tile with an Arabian feel to complement the traditional Hamptons-style space. The Carrara Marble Lantern Mosaic tiles create an Arabic pattern that perfectly reflects the feeling Emma wanted to capture.

The laundry features Carrara Marble Herringbone Mosaic tiles for a classic Hamptons-style feel, and the bathroom also reflects this traditional style with Carrara Marble Penny Round Mosaic tiles on the floor and Carrara Marble Bevelled Subway tiles laid vertically on each wall. “It’s so exciting and the effect is breathtaking.”

Room by room, Emma is creating the most extraordinary house that reflects her innate skills as a design visionary – her natural instincts creating a stunning family home. Looking to the future, Emma is planning to turn her design talents into a design studio so she can help her followers with their renovations. Her consultancy should be launching in 2024, so keep following her Instagram page to learn more.

Carrara Marble Bevelled Mosaic

Emma Fuller

Carrara Marble Lantern Mosaic

Carrara Marble Bevelled Mosaic

Carrara Marble Lantern Mosaic

colossally lightweight, seamlessly bold

Ultraslim is an exquisite aesthetic that fuses a dramatic, modern and prestigious feel. Designed to make an elegant but bold statement, these stunning large-format panels come in various sizes, textures, and finishes.

Eliminating the need for grout lines, it creates a continuous surface and seamlessly covers indoor walls, outdoor features, and facades. These colossal slabs, while mighty, are surprisingly lightweight and make for easy application when creating a sleek look that will complement any space around the home.

Mk2 Verdi Apli

Calacatta Gold

interior couture podcast DESIGN

when Ashleigh Teune and Claire Foot

first worked together at a renovation company several years ago, there was an immediate affinity and sense of respect. Surprisingly they were both living in Kensington in innercity Melbourne, so during the COVID-19 lockdowns they would bump into each other at local cafes. Ashleigh left that business a few years ago to start up her own interior design studio, Tove Interiors, and Claire has since gone out on her own as well, launching amillâ studio.

Claire is a passionate and heart-led multidisciplinary creative who blends her background as an award-winning interior design with expertise in creating authentic brands. She loves delving into the deeper meaning behind the objects and brands we surround ourselves with at home, unveiling not only the intended meaning envisioned by creators and brands but also the deeper sentiment we derive from them.

For Ashleigh, launching Tove Interiors was a carefully considered decision. She wanted to be sure that her team’s values were evident throughout the process. She strongly believes in listening to clients, guiding not forcing, partnering not rushing and being collaborative not pushy. Says Ashleigh, “I genuinely believe the interior designer you choose should feel like a partner in your renovation.”

It was when they caught up last year for a chat that the idea of a podcast started to brew. Claire’s husband had already set up a podcast studio in their home, and Ashleigh was keen to pursue the opportunity to collaborate on a platform for sharing their ideas and views. That was December 2022 and in January of this year, the “Interior Couture” podcast was born. Explains Claire, “At the core of the podcast is our love of the interior design realm, and our desire to make it more approachable. Being avid podcast listeners we both felt there were no podcasts or design communities aimed at us, design professionals in our late 20s and early 30s looking for a new way of looking at interiors.”

Since launching the “Interior Couture’ podcast it seems they have really tapped into a concept that resonates. Their followers have grown quickly and organically week on week, and their Instagram community is gaining momentum.

“We explore interior design inspiration that allows us to be more ourselves at home,” says Claire. “We debate, examine, investigate and ruminate on how we can create interior spaces that truly reflect us. We pick a topic and

NGISED T A LKING

discuss it openly and authentically. We talk about every subject that relates to the home, from the psychological manipulation of interior brands to designing for small interior spaces to how to stop creative blocks, all with the lens of our own experiences working with clients and on our own home renovations. We just want to help people on every step of their design journey, even if they are renting a home and just want to give their space a facelift. At our age not everyone has the option to undertake a full-blown renovation, but they may still be passionate about design or have a design dream.”

With several series of the podcast already recorded, Ashleigh and Claire have explored a wide variety of topics, concepts, dilemmas and solutions in a warm, relaxed and playful way, with a level of depth and sincerity that is inspiring and engaging. Some topics include “From Pyjamas to Productivity: Mastering the Ultimate Home Office for Work and Play!”, “From Threads to Throws: How Slow Fashion Impacts Our Interiors” and “Bathroom Bliss: From Our Pivotal Design Moment to Your Perfect Bathroom Design.”

“We really just love having a chat about anything that is of interest to us, our community and our peer group,” adds Claire. “We discuss home tours like Zoe FosterBlake and Hamish Blake’s new Sydney home based on their interview with Vogue Living, we review events like Design Week, and we have guest interviews like EvoBuilt who have twice been involved with The Block.”

Both Claire and Ashleigh believe that the core of good design is that it should reflect you and those who live within the space. “Design solutions need to reflect your unique problems or issues, so our goal is to offer tips and tricks to identify your unique wants and needs so they are front of mind when looking for solutions for your interior spaces.”

You can listen to the Interior Couture podcast on your favourite podcast platform.

@interiorcouture.podcast

www.amillastudio.com.au

www.toveinteriors.com.au

i wagga wagga

t was 2010 when Tony Balding established the National Tiles franchise store in Wagga Wagga. Having previously operated as a franchisee for Lighting & Ceramics and then as an independent tile retailer, Tony had many years of experience in the tile industry and as an entrepreneur.

“One day Frank Walker walked in the door, and being based in NSW we hadn’t been exposed to Frank’s radio advertising and had no idea who he was. But he had certainly done his research about us, and that’s why he’s such a successful business person. He asked for a few minutes of our time to talk to us about a franchise opportunity, something that wasn’t really on our radar at the time. We had a chat in my office and within 10 minutes he had told me how many square metres of tiles had been bought in the Wagga Wagga and Riverina area, who the top three traders were in the tile market and discussed the idea of a Trade Club which we were already looking to introduce ourselves.”

That ten-minute chat turned into 30 minutes, and at the end Frank suggested Tony talk to some of the other National Tiles’ franchises in Bendigo, Shepparton and Ballarat to get an understanding of the operation. Tony drove to each of these stores and talked to them all, and they assured him that National Tiles was a great franchise concept, and that it was a great organisation to deal with, with great pricing - but that the ads would drive them crazy. “I’d never heard these ads so wasn’t sure what they were talking about, but as I drove out of Bendigo I heard Frank’s voice on the radio for the first time, and finally understood where they were coming from. The ads are such a clever marketing idea that has made Frank one of the most recognised voices on radio and National Tiles one of the most known brands.”

Between meeting Frank and the franchise owners, Tony knew that the only way to become the number one tile

retailer in Wagga Wagga was to join National Tiles. “We slowly built our business up from being number three in the market to number two, and now we are the number one preferred tile retailer in the area with the largest market share.”

Born and bred in Wagga Wagga, Lisa Ogden joined the organisation in 2012 as a trainee, fresh out of school following her gap year. Last year she became Tony’s business partner in the franchise. She explains, “We work with a number of smaller to medium multi-home builders in the area, and local residential homeowners. Tiled flooring is the most popular with most builders, with larger 600 x 600 sizing working really well. Floor to ceiling tiling in bathrooms is also important, it’s generally more economical to tile to whole wall than to get a painter in to finish off the top section – it saves bringing another trade in.”

The National Tiles’ Price Bomb ranges are really popular in the region with builders who work to strict budgets to achieve their price goals. Baseline and Concrete Fusion are two of their biggest sellers, and for luxury high end builds they find that natural stone tiles, marble and mosaics are really sought after. “I have always had a love for interior design and helping our customers create their dream kitchens, laundries and bathrooms. I really enjoy putting together mood boards to help them envision the tiles in their home,” says Lisa.

As with most regional areas, community support is so important and fostering honest and open relationships with customers is the key to the success of any business. Adds Tony, “We rely on our reputation, and we pride ourselves on the trust and reliability we have fostered with our customers in residential and commercial renovations and new builds.”

National Tiles Wagga Wagga

180 Hammond Ave, Wagga Wagga, NSW sales@nationaltilesriverina.com.au (02) 6939 7988

c shepparton

aroline and David Mohi are part of the fabric of Shepparton. A true local, Caroline’s greatgrandfather arrived in Shepparton from the UK when her grandfather was only three years old, so there is a generational attachment to the region. And whilst David was born in Melbourne, he too grew up in the area and it was in Shepparton that Caroline and David met, fell in love, and began their life journey together.

After finishing school Caroline focused on a career in finance and David worked at SPC Ardmona for 20 years, so setting up a brand-new tile franchise was a big step. However with David’s sister and her husband owning the Bendigo National Tiles franchise, they had some inside knowledge about the operation. Explains Caroline, “Every time we visited them in Bendigo we saw how successful their store was, how hard they were working and the rewards they were reaping for their efforts. They encouraged us to explore the possibility of opening a store in Shepparton, so we met with Frank Walker who was interested in launching a local franchise. Our expression of interest turned into a steak sandwich and a lemon, lime and bitters at the pub. That was in September 2007 and by December that year we were open.”

Now in their sixteenth year, Caroline and David have a sleek operation that employs 8 local retail professionals. It was a steep learning curve of course, but David’s background in inventory management and Caroline’s experience in finance certainly helped with the operational structure and rollout. And they had a large network of support from family and friends which was a great help in the early years. “What we have learned over the last 16 years has been extraordinary. We have grown and expanded and built a strong and successful operation.”

David and Caroline have seen the tile selection grow and evolve exponentially over the last 16 years, and the offering for the customer is wide and deep. Tiles continue to be vital for wet areas, with an increase in the appeal of floor-to-ceiling applications. And the vinyl plank range is also really popular.

The National Tiles Shepparton store predominantly services the residential market with local foot traffic making up 80% of the business, with some local builders completing the client mix. “We are proud that our success is largely through the support of the local community. Being able to supply what they want, when they want it is important, and we are able to provide this service through the amazing support of National Tiles’ head office team. We’ve always had close relationships with those who are the backbone of the business, driving the supply and distribution.”

The success of Caroline and David’s National Tiles franchise is based on the consistent supply of a wide range of quality tiles and flooring, and on the loyal support of the local community. Says Caroline, “Being from a country town, there’s nowhere to hide. So honesty and reliability are so important. We always taught our children to treat others like they would want to be treated, and that is what our customer service is built on. We aim to create a warm feeling for customers when they walk into our store and engender a sense of trust. It’s so rewarding when customers come back time and time again, and when they come to us because of word of mouth – you know you must be doing something right.”

National Tiles Shepparton 8001 Melbourne Road, Shepparton, Victoria info@nationaltilesshepparton.com.au

What we have learned over the last 16 years has been extraordinary.

a coastal cornucopia of colour

costa Nova is a delightful Portuguese village famed for its magnificent sandy coastline and colourful beach houses. These quirky and charming seaside homes, painted with traditional striped patterns, have social media-savvy visitors flocking to take photos in front of the cheerful exteriors.

Our Costa Nova range is a collection of 50 by 200 mm tiles in fifteen soft and vibrant colours, plus two finishes, gloss and matt. These two elegant finishes open potential of the range for subtle surface contrasts, which is becoming a staple of contemporary bathroom and kitchen design.

Augmented by two crisp rectilinear decorations, this classic rectangular collection features four strips per face. Onda is curved to represent the waves of the sea, and Praia is more angular and emotes the pointed shapes of beach huts.

The combination of a versatile shape, two finish options, and two adaptable decors, all equally effective in horizontal or vertical configurations, allows the range to be a distinctive design statement in its own right or to complement a wide range of paint finishes, timbers, stones or wallpapers. Costa Nova is a deceptively simple collection that brings you virtually limitless applications.

Lauren Green

Terra And Lauren Green

Grey Gloss

AVAILABLE STYLES

National Tiles’ Costa Nova comes in Gloss or Matt finish and Onda or Praia décor. All two finish and two décor options are available in the following colours:

Aloe, Baby blue, Banyan blue, Black, Glacier, Grey, Laurel green, Naval, Pale beige, Stony pink, Straw, Tansy green, Terra, White, and Yellow.

Costa Nova white body wall tiles are available in:

Plain tiles, gloss finish; Plain tiles, matt finish; Onda décor; Praia décor.

Glacier

Black

Beige Pale Matt

PARTNER PROFILE

P ROFIL OFILE P

RENTRAELIFORP

e

stablished as a private family-owned and operated company in 1987, Halliday Tile Graphics grew to become the largest manufacturer of decorative ceramic tile products in Australia with an extensive client base in Australia, New Zealand and the USA.

When former metal mining expert Matt Venn originally joined Halliday Tile Graphics in 1998, it was for a twoweek contract position. Now 25 years later Matt is the Managing Director of the operation, rebranding the company to Southern Cross Ceramics in 2002. “I discovered I loved the nature of business, and really enjoyed problem-solving,” explains Matt. “The ceramic industry awakened the entrepreneur in me.”

Maintaining an Australian-made story has been extremely challenging in an industry dominated by imported products. The cost of local manufacturing is very high, in part due to government legislature that requires a great deal of processes and regulations as opposed to other countries that don’t have the same disciplines and labour laws in place.

Adds Matt, “We would follow these principles regardless, because we care so strongly for our team, however it undeniably makes the manufacturing process considerably more expensive. We also don’t have an industry where companies can collaborate and work together to support and drive ceramic production. In fact, we have no competitors in the ceramic tile space.”

Based in Mulgrave, a suburb of Melbourne, the Southern Cross Ceramics tile range is more expensive than cheaper import collections. However, it’s the story behind the manufacturing process that makes all the difference. Customer service, client support, local marketing initiatives and a made-to-order/fast-to-market principle separates and defines the Southern Cross Ceramics offering. “We have invested heavily in seeking out ways to minimise waste, working with manufacturers from other industries like furniture, paint and automotive, to identify how they remove costs from their processes. As we are not a threat, leading businesses are happy to share information and inspire others in waste-reducing and cost-saving solutions.”

NATIONAL TILES

Matt Venn Managing DirectorWith any business, efficiency and cost-effectiveness is about solving problems, and there are two key challenges

Southern Cross Ceramics faces. Explains Matt, “One challenge we face is how to make ceramic manufacturing work because we use natural materials for the production process. The other challenge is doing so efficiently. Fortunately, our team is very committed which means we have a strong and stable workforce which is incredibly important.”

The association between National Tiles and Southern Cross Ceramics goes way back, and it has always been a supportive collaboration. “We work closely with National Tiles’ procurement team to develop ranges that will work for the National Tiles’ customer. Three of the leading ranges are Artisan, Infinity and Tetra. We are constantly evolving and innovating, a necessity when competing with imports. We have to keep moving forward, and as the leader in ceramic tile decoration we have to stay one step ahead to maintain that position. Being based in Australia and having a responsive speed-to-market model, we can adapt to design trends within a very short space of time. We manufacture to order rather than to stock which enables us to offer a much wider range of colours and designs. We respond within days. National Tiles values the fact that we have the largest colour range, plus the largest design range, all manufactured locally without minimum runs and with a very short delivery window. The result is that the consumer gets what they want.”

Southern Cross Ceramics made a conscious decision to commit to Australian manufacturing. It has been a very hard road but a very worthwhile road, creating a future for their team of 42 Melbourne locals. “We want to get bigger, and we want to create more employment opportunities for Australians. We encourage those who are smart with their hands, who can design and create, and we are very passionate about providing opportunities for those who are talented at working with machines, fixing machines, designing tiles and creating beautiful products. The Australian workforce needs to be able to manufacture products that we can sell locally and sell to the world. And Southern Cross Ceramics is proud to be a part of this story.”

www.scceramics.com

talking trade

G TRADE

proudly since 1996

Roberts Designs has proudly supported caulkers and tilers since 1996. For over 25 years, customer satisfaction and product innovation have been the centre of everything they do. An Australian-owned family business that proudly retains a culture of trust, respect, transparency and accountability. Motivated by reducing time and cost while providing maximum value, the team always stays focused on finding the next innovative product and solution.

Paul Hayes, Roberts Designs Managing Director, elaborates, ‘We have become a wholesaler of choice, across Australia and New Zealand, for premium tiling tools. And the proud owner of Maxisil sealants, among many other products. Investing in quality materials and refining the manufacturing process has allowed us to grow our offering, and to celebrate our 25th birthday, we have implemented many new initiatives.’

Maxisil Trim will release new tiling trims that match Maxisil silicone and deliver a full-colour match system for tile, trim, grout and silicone.

Maxisil Grout is debuting a new sand-free and colourfast grout that perfectly matches their silicone. Maxisil Premium Grout is suitable for wall and floor tiling for most ceramic, porcelain and natural stone applications.

Baron, a brand that aligns with Roberts Designs on quality-first values, has joined the portfolio as an official supplier, offering conveyors, forced action mixers and various accessories to the trade market.

TRAD E GNIKLAT EDART mapei

KERAPOXY EASY

DESIGN is an epoxy grout with improved workability and shining performance. The product is available in a wide range of colours and is easy to clean. Not only does it provide a beautiful finish, but it’s also certified anti-bacterial, mouldresistant, and non-absorbent.

Mapei colours featured across the grout range match with Mapesil AC sealants.

• Easy to apply

• Non-absorbent and easy to clean

• Certified anti-bacterial and mould-resistant

• Helps keep the interiors healthy

• Complies with HACCP food safety management procedures

• Wide range of colours

• Suitable for groups up to 15mm wide mapei.com/au

bathroom art

Advances in bathroom design are often slow due to fashion aspirations conflicting with practical construction details. Art Plumbing & Bathroomware International are determined to bypass these limitations and innovate in the bathroom, with two products particularly noteworthy.

For Art’s patented range of Pop Down® Basin and Bath Wastes, they took an existing functional but clunky-looking pop-up waste and reimagined it as a Pop Down®.

Proudly developed in collaboration with the original inventor and patent holder, these superior quality Australian-made brass floor wastes, combined with a clever and discreet drainage concept, bring form and function together in an all-too-rare union for Australia’s floor and drain market. No one could have imagined the result, a beautiful and sleek look with superior functionality.

ANOOKTM

The tiled shower niche trend presented our designer with a promising but challenging opportunity; to marry a good design concept with solid functionality, and the ANOOKTM is an absolute game changer.

Constructed from a single sheet of stainless steel and coupled with a unique perforated flange for superior bonding of the waterproofing membrane - this water-tight vessel provides peace of mind for the installer and homeowner alike. The leading edge allows tiles to connect seamlessly, and the variety of sizes and surface finishes match and complement the bathroom’s other design elements to deliver a superior aesthetic.

bright as can be

As the colder months of the year fall upon us, we tend to do less entertaining outdoors, spending more time indoors cosying up. Consequently, we are cleaning less outdoors, and by the end of winter, it shows.

Before Bright

After Bright

Choosing the right product is extremely important when it comes to effective cleaning. Consider a stain as a lock, and the cleaner the key. To unlock that stain, we will need access to the appropriate cleaner. Using the wrong cleaner is ineffective at the very least and may cause lasting surface damage at worst.

For the heavy build-up of mould and mildew, the key is Spirit Bright As. This very effective chlorinated cleaner will remove organic stains such as algae, mould, mildew, leaf marks, bird and bat droppings, leeching timber stains and more. Bright As is safe to use over any natural stone, manufactured tile or concrete surface.

Spirit Sealers & Cleaners produce a complete range of sealers and cleaners formulated carefully for the stone and tile industry. To check out the full range, visit www.spiritsealers.com, or contact sales@spiritsealers. com for more information.

to the maximus

Designed in Melbourne by tilers, for tilers. The Maximus pedestal system provides a one size fits all solution for externally located elevated floors. It’s the most innovative pedestal used for external innovations.

The Maximus triple screw thread technology outperforms most other products on the market. Maximus boasts the smallest range of products with the greatest level of adjustment, replacing up to a dozen of its competitors’ products.

As commercial tilers, we grew tired of multiple-sized pedestals and needing to rely on tiling crews to use the correct ones. This became problematic with tilers grabbing whatever was available in arms reach and stacking foreign objects under the pedestals to achieve a certain height.

Ultimately, this can compromise the waterproof membrane installed underneath and cause instability. Hence, we developed our Maximus range with its unique ability to adjust up to three times its original size to overcome these issues. maximuspedestalsystems.com

style grout tech

Style Grout takes cement grouting to a whole new standard with four key pillars:

Eco-Sustainable

Very low VOC emissions: we use recycled and raw materials that are non-toxic and have no silica.

Technologically Smooth Application

Soft, creamy, non-slump, dries fast and with no efflorescence.

Aesthetics

Available in a mix of colours, the smooth and homogenous finish with its consistency of colour has low water absorption, reduces staining and protects against mould and bacteria.

Performance

It is the only grout on the market that resists primary & secondary efflorescence. And withstands abrasion, compression and bending more than any other grout on the market. Plus, a whopping 36-month shelf-life when stored in its original packaging.

THE ADHESIVE THAT EXTENDS ITS APPLICATION IN BOTH INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SETTINGS

Ultralite S2 T Flex is a one-component, lightweight, and sustainable tile adhesive suitable for various environmental conditions. Easy to apply by trowel with excellent back-buttering capacities for ceramic and stone tiles.

Everything’s OK, with MAPEI Learn

quintessential queensland

for Brighton Homes, being a Queensland home builder means more than just building new homes. For them, it’s about designing floorplans that breathe with the summer breeze, and creating homes that celebrate the Queensland lifestyle with sun-fringed spaces, generously sized rooms and custom design features that reflect the personality of the homeowner. National Tiles has a proud partnership with Brighton Homes and CEO Brad Collins, who joined the team nearly seven years ago.

“Building is in my blood,” says Brad. “I initially worked in the supply side in Victoria, where I am originally from, and then moved to Queensland around 20 years ago to join Plantation Homes where I worked for thirteen years. During this time McDonald Jones Homes (MJH Group based in NSW) entered the Queensland housing market and organically grew their Queensland enterprise from around 2015. I joined the company a year later and rebranded the business to Brighton Homes to focus more on the unique style and lifestyle of the Queensland residential home offering. That was when our partnership with National Tiles began.”

As Brad explains, that was the turning point for Brighton Homes, growing from a portfolio of 88 houses to more than 600 homes under construction in 2022. The team has grown exponentially over the last six years, from a small group of 7 to nearly 160, making Brighton Homes a significant local employer that has made its mark on the residential housing landscape.

Brad says, “The key to our success has been the style of homes we developed – the product came first. We took the opportunity to get some clear space and create our own identity in terms of the architectural and interior design of the homes we offered to Queenslanders. Every part of our offering, from the floorplans and colour palettes to our marketing campaigns, cut through the competition to define our own unique space in the local housing market.”

Brighton Homes is now much loved and well respected for the coastal look and feel of their display home portfolio.

Adds Brad, “Our focus is on building homes in the southeast corner of Queensland, from Noosa south to the border, the majority in greenfield plus around 15 percent being knock-down rebuilds. And whilst the market has softened throughout Australia, the self-funded retiree sector remains very active.”

There is no doubt that COVID-19 made its mark on the Australian lifestyle in many ways, and residential floor plans have morphed and adapted to suit new ways of working. “Pre-COVID our floorplans didn’t include a study, however all of our homes now have versatile workspaces or study nooks that cater for the work-from-home culture.”

Brighton Homes has an internal design team who works closely with its key supply partners, including National Tiles.

The Brighton Homes’ My Choice Studio in Loganholme offers clients the opportunity to select all of their tiles for their home in one location, providing a convenient and seamless process.

“The desire for designer tiles has grown significantly in recent years, and the range of tiles on offer from National Tiles has developed and evolved so that our clients are exposed to the very best variety in terms of format, size, colour and texture from all around the world. Tiles provide the foundation for the design of the home and are vital for the end result of both the exterior and alfresco areas.”

The future continues to look bright for Brighton Homes, even though the strategy has shifted in recent times. Whilst being a 1000 plus home builder is a target for growth, consolidation is important so that they continue to provide their customers with a solid and reliable offering with the very best in design, support and customer service. “Strong partnerships are vital to the strength of supply,” adds Brad, “and National Tiles consistently ensures that the tiles on offer are in stock and available for delivery in full and on time so our customers can be confident in their choices.”

Brighton Homes’ philanthropic work is a very important pillar of the company’s ethos, supporting the local community and giving back to those in need. They proudly support young lives with their official charity partner, Queensland-based charity YoungCare, to help raise vital funds and awareness for the 12,000 young Australians who are currently living in accommodation unsuitable for their age or type of care: www.youngcare.com.au

You can contact Brighton Homes on 07 3188 5500 or visit them at 3926 Pacific Highway, Loganholme. www.brightonhomes.net.au

Brad Collins –CEO

We took the opportunity to get some clear space and create our own identity in terms of the architectural and interior design of the homes we offered to Queenslanders

artful sophistication

lntroducing the exquisite Microcosmi collection, capturing the eternal sophistication and allure of rare and distinctive marbles. Combined with an imperfect artisanal brick style and artfully replicated on porcelain stoneware to create a striking marble look.

This carefully crafted selection is available in traditional and larger sizes boasting a sleek 6mm and 10mm thickness. Of the collection’s four captivating variations, Calacatta Green and Irish Green have joined the National Tiles family.

In addition to the mesmerising marble-inspired range, we present the 80 x 80 cm size Granito. This fresh interpretation of Granite and Venetian Terrazzo provides a unique opportunity for unconventional pairings and design expression.

Embrace the beauty and versatility of the visually impactful Microcosmi as it elevates spaces with unparalleled elegant and timeless aesthetic perfection.

Calacutta Green

Irish Green 600x1200 On Wall Granito 800x800 On Floor

@nationaltilesau

let’s get social

Over the last year, we have seen many stunning tile projects, transformations and DIYs that we could not resist an enthusiastic double-tap. Always blown away by the creativity of our customers, we are proud of how active our community is online, especially on Instagram. More popular than ever, we have noticed classic subway tiles adding visual interest with unique tile lay patterns and bold decorator tiles used for eye-catching feature walls or splashbacks.

Have you recently finished a tile project? Tag us on Instagram - we would love to see it!

@ourcoastaldream

@mulberry_manor

nationaltilesau We are in love with this room at the @ourcoastaldream house. Our Revival Clover Tile perfectly matches this space by creating a timeless and traditional interior.

nationaltilesau The Cava Borghini Satin Decor tile sets the stage for a living room that exudes timeless beauty and sophistication. Shop online and in-store now!

nationaltilesau This bathroom will always remain a favourite, we love the mix of our Materia and Norr ranges!

@mulberry_manor

@the.heartland.collective

nationaltilesau The combination of light and dark hues creates a subtle yet striking contrast, while the clean lines and minimalist design add a modern touch. @the. heartland.collective used our Whoosh and Frammenta tiles.

@nationaltilesau

nationaltilesau Bring the beauty of the outdoors in with these stunning tiles in your bathroom! The natural stone texture and earthy grey tones create a spa-like oasis perfect for unwinding after a long day.

@chrissyvandrevendesigner used our Norr 2.0 tiles.

@tilebydesign_

nationaltilesau Adding warmth and character, one tile at a time. These terracotta finger tiles bring a touch of rustic charm and earthy elegance to any space. From floors to walls, they make a statement that stands the test of time.

nationaltilesau A showstopper! Using our Colosseum Ming Green Tile and Penny Round Mosaic, they created such a unique space.

Whoosh Gloss Tile 75x300mm

Whoosh shown in White

Colours:

Talking to ashleigh broadhurst

The options for adventure are limitless. I also love to read and enjoy a good podcast, television series or movie.

My ideal dinner menu is...

I love gnocchi and charcuterie boards. I prefer savoury food.

I am inspired by…

As I reflect on my journey, I realize that I have been motivated by many individuals to achieve my goals and grow into the person I am today. I strong believe that inspiration is derived from diverse sources and that it has the power to transform us. My mother has been a significant driving force in my life.

One thing most people don’t know about me is… I enjoy creating art at home and have recently become a certified yoga teacher (although I am yet to put those teachings into practice).

My favourite home design style is…

ASHLEIGH BROADHURST CLUSTER MANAGER

aAshleigh Broadhurst grew up on Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula from what she describes as humble beginnings, and she was inspired by her parents’ hard work ethic which has motivated her life and career. Since joining National Tiles, this hard work ethic and professional determination has seen Ashleigh progress through the company in a variety of career-building roles. Now based in Sydney, Ashleigh has taken on the challenging and rewarding role of Cluster Manager – NSW. As Ashleigh says, “You always grow when you step outside of your comfort zone.”

My favourite childhood memories are…

I cherish the moments I spend with my father, from casting a line whilst fishing or indulging in the delicious meals he prepared, or playing old-school PlayStation games like Abe’s Odyssey. And I value the time I spent with my siblings, in particular my sister who I am still very close with.

I am passionate about…

Living an active lifestyle, indulging in mindfulness, maintaining a healthy work-life balance while contributing to the success of National Tiles, savouring delectable cuisine, and cherishing the company of my loved ones and the values of family.

On the weekend you will find me...

Trying new experiences and enjoying activities like hiking, snorkeling, skiing, bike riding, surfing, pottery, attending cooking classes, and going to see musicals.

A combination of Scandinavian and rustic styles, the perfect blend of functionality and minimalism. I am drawn to a mix of textures that add depth and interest to a space without overwhelming it, and I appreciate subtle nods to natural elements and earthy tones.

The best advice I have been given is…

In order to achieve fulfillment and success in life, it is important to develop positive habits and enhance our expertise and abilities. Embracing new experiences and challenging ourselves is essential for personal growth, and the effort we invest in our actions is often reflected back to us.

What I am loving from National Tiles at the moment is…

The current period of growth and development in our business is truly exhilarating, and it fills me with enthusiasm to be a participant in this dynamic phase. It is a privilege to contribute to the evolution of our company’s culture and expansion, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a thrilling time.

What I love most about working at National Tiles is… I have had the opportunity to experience significant personal and professional growth by focusing on building robust teams and providing others with the tools and support they need to succeed. Working in a multitude of roles has given me a broad perspective and a diverse skill set. I love the abundance of opportunities and growth pathways that National Tiles provides to individuals, recognizing that success is a direct reflection of the team’s efforts.