As the soothing waters of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa beckon, we venture into the realm of bespoke design, where every detail tells a story of tranquility and luxury. In our pursuit of uncovering the artistry behind the scenes, we sought insights from the maestros themselves. We asked our commercial sales rep Mahsa Halapjour and product manager Amanda Hellier for insights on customization, delving into the processes that shaped the custom tiles created for Wai Ariki.

Join us as we explore the seamless integration of custom products, from the ordering process to the inspiration behind bespoke Bisazza murals.

Q&A with Commercial Sales Rep Mahsa Halapjour 

Can you walk us through the typical process of ordering custom products for a commercial project?

"Starting with an initial consultation we work with the client to understand their ideas and visions. We then work through how we can best create the vision by selecting colours and sizes. 

Once the design is ready, the suppliers craft a render with the specifications, and the rendition is then presented to the client, for approval. It's a pivotal moment where your vision comes to life on paper. 

We proceed to order physical samples of your custom creation, this step allows you to not only see but also touch and feel the product in real life, making the design transition from concept to reality even more tangible."

What key information do clients need to provide during the ordering process to ensure a smooth transaction?

"A concept idea, a timeline, and a budget are the key information to begin with. It is also crucial to have someone specialised in the product to measure the space for final order quantities."

How do you engage with clients to understand their specific needs and preferences for custom products?

"By encouraging clients to share inspiration and references to align expectations, and help transform ideas into tangible starting points for the design. Also from extracting the emotions and messages they want to express to refine the design and create a meaningful product."

What was the inspiration behind this custom Bisazza mural?

"The clients wanted to create an Aotearoa landmark mural to enhance the cultural elements in the overall design of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa. They chose an image of Mt Tongariro which we created from 10x10 Bisazza mosaics."

Custom Bisazza Mural in 10x10 Mosaics, paired with Gemme GM 20.49

Custom Poutoma Design in 20x20 mosaics paired with Smalto SM 20.77.  

Q&A with Product Manager Amanda Hellier 

In your experience, what are the main reasons clients opt for custom products in their projects?

"Clients opt for custom products when they want a point of difference in their design that is not offered by other Tile companies in New Zealand"

How do you communicate the value of customisation to clients who may be hesitant or unfamiliar with the process?

"Customisation gives a unique solution to your project. Tile Space are happy to work with you to create these solutions and to explore the many opportunities available to you at no extra cost"

For people interested in custom Bisazza what is your advice for creating a great concept?

"We love working with customised Bisazza - if you have a favourite photo, or image, that we can create in Bisazza Italian glass mosaics."

"Talk with us about your ideas, and we can create your dreams - a point of difference not widely available."

All the pools were tiled in Gemme GM 20.49. 

Tile Space supplied all the tiles in Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa. 1&2 Walls: mixed Waterfall Silver Chevron, Waterfall Ivory Chevron, and Waterfall Dark Chevron Floors: Ardesia Black Chairs: Smalto SM 20.77. 3&4 Walls: Concrete Smoke Floors: Ardesia Black. 5 Walls: Concrete Smoke and Nordic Svezia Fibre Floors: Ardesia Black. 6 Walls: Concrete Smoke. 7. Walls: Nordic Finlandia Floors: Ardesia Black.