New shine in jewellery store work

SHE’S one of Geelong’s architectural grand dames and just about to reveal a glittering makeover.
Thomas Jewellers, within the Pyrmont stone and Sicilian marble of the city’s 1924 National Mutual Building, is set to re-open its doors after a $3.3 million refit of its flagship outlet.
Designer Tino Vella said the city landmark, at the corner of Moorabool and Malop Sts, would host an upmarket blend of old and new, featuring intricate custom-designed glasswork and panelling and monochromatic patterned fibreglass.
Mr Vella described the makeover as “a new look for Thomas Jewellers” to attract “higher-end jewellery customers’’.
“It’s a modern design which we tried to keep in line with the building, bringing it in line with the 21st Century,’’ he said.
“We refitted the whole retail area, we’ve totally redone the ground floor with jewellers workshops, all-new displays for watches and diamonds.
“We’re using interesting finishes and this is something unique you won’t see in any other jewellery store. There’s lots of glass panelling – it’s all very intricate.’’
Mr Vella expected the store to re-open next week.