Motawi Tiles
170 Enterprise Dr., Ann Arbor
734-213-0017; motawi.com
Visually similar to Detroit’s historic Pewabic Pottery, Motawi Tilework is a much newer company. Founded in 1992, the Ann Arbor-based tile maker crafts artistic slates that feature nature-inspired designs such as trees, ships and seas, flowers, birds, dragonflies, ladybugs, rabbits, and koalas. Some designs are art deco-themed, some are abstract, still others feature works adopted from Frank Lloyd Wright’s portfolio. You can find these tiles at a whole host of local retail establishments. While tiles can run upward of $162, some come as cheap as $30. Used as a small decoration or a kitchen accent, these little works of art are a great addition to any home that loves celebrating and enjoying quality products made in Michigan.
Founded by Nawal Motawi, Motawi Tileworks employs “Toyota-style production techniques” as well as a “healthy, intentional corporate lifestyle.” You can tour their 12,000-square-foot facility in Ann Arbor every Thursday at 11 a.m. to learn about the history of the company, meet the staff, browse the studio gallery, and witness tiles being made firsthand.
