An Interview with Ceramica Tile + Design – Penny Matthews

Since 1990, Ceramica Tile+Design has been offering quality tiles from around the world to builders and homeowners in Adelaide, South Australia. They are dedicated to showcasing the latest and most unique tiles whilst ensuring the highest level of customer service to each and every client. But your experience with them doesn’t just stop at tiles, the girls at Ceramica Tile+Design have much more to offer you than just tiles, so we spoke to Penny to find out more…

Tell us a bit about your role with Ceramica Tile & Design.

I’m the building selections manager so my primary role is to take care of our builders and their clients needs. Depending on my builder’s requirements, I will either work with them directly for the selection choices of their developments or work with their clients to assist them in selecting everything they need for their custom home.

All the girls that work at Ceramica Tile+Design are either currently studying or have studied either architecture or interior design, so we feel confident in offering a full selection service in house which includes more than just the tiles, but paint colours, cabinetry colours, external colours – whatever the client needs. Whether it’s a full home spec or a simple bathroom renovation, we’ll help our customers interior design their entire renovation from head to toe.

What made you want to join this industry?

I have always loved being creative and ‘artsy’ so becoming an interior designer seemed to always be in the cards for me. Working at Ceramica Tile+Design fulfils my other passion of working with people. Being hands-on with my customers and helping them create their dream space means I receive the privilege of being a part of something truly wonderful. Often, we’ll have people visit us who are overwhelmed with no idea where to begin and what direction to take, so knowing that they leave here feeling inspired, excited and with a defined goal is the biggest reward.

So how do you know when interior design is “good”?

My number one priority at Ceramica Tile+Design for creating ‘good’ interior design is to meet the brief and ensure the customer is happy. However, personally, I am a big believer in functionality. If it looks amazing, but isn’t practical for you and your family in day to day life, then it’s not going to work in the space. I always try and help my clients achieve this element in their home.

As an interior designer, you must constantly be looking to the future, what are some trends you expect to see?

Concerning tiles, Italian producers are scouting quarries overseas to try and find obscure marble full of character and colour so we’re seeing a lot of unique patterns and shapes coming through. There are some manufacturers who are trying to digitally imitate this for porcelain alternatives.

I think you can expect to see some combination marbles hitting the market soon with lots of pink and green colours. It’s a new level of sophistication, still producing a modern element but in a much more unique manner. People are much more open to that, as trends evolve, the standard is becoming too boring so people are opting for unique shapes and subtle elements to add that pop of character in their designs.

What’s your best tip for designing your home?

In my own home, I prefer to stick to a design that incorporates hero pieces. I have very neutral floors and walls with a lot of vintage furniture, rugs and frames being featured in all rooms.

As for my tips on interior design, less clutter! Keep everything organised as it brings a sense of calm to the room if everything has a spot. Also, having rugs on the floors helps create warmth and depth, so even placing a rug beneath your dining room table can help add that extra element of design to an otherwise boring space.

What inspires you?

My Mum! She’s really outgoing and very career oriented so my strong work ethic and bubbly personality definitely comes from her. She’s always been really supportive of me and motivational in regards to being a strong career woman. Ceramica Tile+Design is all-female owned and operated so that in itself is inspiring. I know that my future in this industry is bright because the foundations I stand on come from strong female presence and knowledge.

What could we catch you doing on your days off?

Apart from spending time with my partner, you can probably catch me going to the beach (in better weather, of course!) or the gym. If you ever catch me on the couch, then I’d probably be scrolling Pinterest looking at design trends and searching for something that sparks joy!

Talk about an all-in-one package! Ceramica Tile+Design is ZJ Building’s one-stop shop for our customers for all things interior design, so whether we’re building your home addition or simply renovating your bathroom, you can rest assured knowing that when we send you to see Penny, she will give you everything you need in one VIP visit.

Thanks for chatting to us, Penny!