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Heath Ceramics - Artisan Tiles and Dinnerware


Heath Ceramics - Artisan Tiles and Dinnerware
You would likely NOT stumble upon Heath the way I did, which was on an early morning run along the back alleyways of Sausalito several years ago.   At 7am on a weekday morning, the dusty blue one story Heath factory is just beginning to humm.  Skilled craftspeople are gathering, to create some of the most high quality, well designed tiles and dinnerware, produced in the United States.  Best of all, in this small building, Heath's "seconds" (slightly less than absolutely flawless pieces) are sold at prices those of us who aren't among the wealthy, can afford.

You might have dined at Slanted Door in San Francisco's heralded Ferry Plaza building, or at the reknowned Chez Panisse restaurant in Berkeley.  Or perhaps you've noticed, in private homes about Marin, Heath tiles and dishwear are often present, wherever locally procurred, sustainably produced, masterfully designed products are valued.

Edith Heath founded Heath Ceramics in the 1940's.  With her passion and skill for well crafted stoneware, Heath built a legendary workshop.  Though she passed on in 2005, Edith's pieces continue to carry her legacy, and are now on permanent collection in museums such as NYC's MOMA.

In 2003, Robin Petravic and Catherine Bailey purchased Heath, with the intention of revitalizing the company with a strong focus on design, all the while honoring Edith Heath's handcrafted techniques and design legacy.  An emphasis on local production, fair treatment of workers, and strict environmental standards are included in the company's business code.