Gardens of Marseille is an Australian enterprise launched in 2024, rooted in a rich history of Garden Decor expertise. The initiation of Gardens of Marseille traces back to Florentine Figures, a small family business founded in 1978 by Gino Crosato. 

Gino had worked as a bricklayer for 20 years, but after growing tired of the long and labour intensive days at work, he decided it was time for a change in career. Up until the age of 24, Gino grew up in the Italian town of Treviso, and developed a deep appreciation for the concrete monuments and outdoor decor that embellished the gardens of the area. This evoked a passion which inspired Gino to manufacture concrete statues, purchasing his first set of molds from Italy in 1978. Learning the skill of constructing concrete statues in his backyard, pieces were primarily sold through retail until it became highly favoured by the public. This established the company of Florentine Figures, where stock was sold wholesale to local nurseries and hardware stores. Over time, more and more moulds were imported, and a family business was born.

However, in the early 1980s, Florentine Figures had encountered a significant challenge. Approximately 80% of Gino’s molds had been stolen, pushing his company to the edge of bankruptcy. With the majority of the Crosato’s savings invested into their business, the family was left in great financial stress. But, there was a light at the end of the tunnel. The terracotta boom that coincided with the hardship of the theft offered a source of support, enabling Florentine Figures to remain open by importing terracotta goods with what was left of their savings. This, as well as the public's growing interest in gardening restored Florentine Figures, allowing the business to become one of Australia’s leading garden decor manufacturers, importers and exporters of quality gardenware, operating up until today: 45 years later and counting!

All three Crosato children—two sons and a daughter—joined the family business, and now a third generation is involved. Nicola, the daughter of Janine, has embarked on her own initiative off Florentine Figures, focusing on the importation of cast iron and production of unique garden pieces. Nicola and the Crosato family are thrilled to announce the formation of Gardens of Marseille, made possible through the bravery and perseverance of their adored father, and grandfather, Gino Crosato.