When a Santa Barbara builder set out to create a coastal residence that felt both modern and enduring, they knew the right materials would make all the difference.
The goal: to capture the elegance of natural stone, the performance of porcelain, and the seamless indoor-outdoor flow that defines California living.
Through Gabriel Immo Supply, they found the perfect balance — sourcing large-format Italian porcelain slabs that brought European craftsmanship and effortless maintenance to the California coast.
1️⃣ The Project Vision
Set on a quiet hillside with panoramic views of the Pacific, the home was designed around simplicity, light, and longevity.
The architect envisioned a palette of natural tones — sand, fog, and stone — that would harmonize with the landscape.
For the builder, that meant finding materials that could achieve the look of natural marble without the upkeep that coastal conditions demand.
“We wanted the feeling of luxury without the fear of salt, sun, or moisture damage,” the builder explained. Porcelain gave us the best of both worlds.”
2️⃣ The Challenge — Sourcing the Right Product
While there’s no shortage of porcelain tile on the market, the project required a specific aesthetic:
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Large-format slabs (120x280cm) for minimal seams.
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A subtle, warm-gray veining pattern.
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Matte finish for natural texture and light diffusion.
The builder needed a partner who could source this quality level from Italy — coordinate logistics, verify consistency across multiple lots, and ensure timely delivery during the construction window.
3️⃣ The Solution — Partnering with GIS
Working with Gabriel Immo Supply, the builder submitted design specs through our Project Inquiry Form.
Within 48 hours, our team identified three Italian factories with suitable product lines and coordinated side-by-side comparisons.
We provided:
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Sample images and finish options.
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Landed pricing with all freight and customs included.
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Lead-time projections based on the build schedule.
After samples were reviewed in person under natural light, the team selected a honed porcelain collection from a renowned manufacturer in Emilia-Romagna — known for its refined surface detail and color accuracy.
4️⃣ Execution — From Italy to Installation
Once approved, GIS handled all coordination:
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Consolidating the order into a single container.
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Pre-shipment inspection and packaging verification.
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Shipping from Italy to the Port of Long Beach.
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Final delivery to Santa Barbara within 10 weeks of order.
Communication remained clear throughout, with milestone updates at each stage.
When the materials arrived, they were flawless — consistent tone, precise sizing, and ready for immediate installation.
5️⃣ The Result — Seamless, Sustainable, and Stunning
The final home feels effortlessly calm — open-plan interiors flowing onto a covered terrace with matching porcelain underfoot.
The surfaces catch light softly throughout the day, shifting in tone from warm gray to cool silver as the sun moves.
The builder noted that the ease of installation and zero maintenance have become key talking points with clients considering similar projects.
“It elevated the project beyond expectation,” they said.
“Our clients now ask specifically for the same porcelain — they can’t believe it’s not natural stone.”
Why It Worked
The success of this project came down to three things:
1️⃣ A clear design vision rooted in authenticity.
2️⃣ Expert sourcing and communication from GIS.
3️⃣ Reliable European manufacturing and logistics.
Together, they turned a design dream into a finished home that balances art, engineering, and effortless living.
From Inspiration to Installation — Made Simple
Every builder and designer has a vision worth realizing — and the right sourcing partner can make it effortless.
Whether you’re planning a single residence or an entire development, Gabriel Immo Supply provides access to Europe’s best materials with the reliability of a local team.
Start Your Own Case Study
Share your next project through our [Project Inquiry Form], and we’ll help you source materials that tell your story — beautifully, efficiently, and on time.
👉 [Start Your Project Inquiry →]
