Best Art Tile Studio - Ann Arbor 2026

In a light-filled studio in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Motawi Tileworks transforms clay into enduring works of art—tiles that don’t just decorate a space, but give it soul. Founded in 1992 by artist and entrepreneur Nawal Motawi, the company began in a garage with a simple idea: create handcrafted tiles inspired by the beauty of historic design and the rhythms of everyday life. Today, Motawi Tileworks is recognized as a leader in American art tile, blending craftsmanship with design traditions rooted in the Arts and Crafts movement, Art Nouveau, and Midcentury Modern aesthetics. Each tile reflects a commitment to harmony, pattern, and color—principles that guide both the work and the culture behind it. What They Do Motawi produces three primary types of tile: Art Tile: richly glazed, multicolored pieces designed for display or installation Field Tile: single-color tiles for architectural applications Relief Tile: sculpted surfaces that add depth and texture Every tile is made using time-honored techniques. Clay is pressed into molds, kiln-fired, and hand-glazed using the centuries-old Cuenca method—where glazes are carefully applied within raised lines to create luminous, dimensional designs. Design & Collaborations Motawi’s designs range from original creations to licensed works inspired by iconic artists and architects, including Frank Lloyd Wright and Charley Harper. These collaborations allow historic design languages to live on in a new, tactile form—one tile at a time. Scale & Reach Over 45 employees across Motawi Tileworks and its sister company, Rovin Ceramics Products sold in 300+ locations across the U.S. and Canada Installations featured in homes and public spaces worldwide Annual revenue of approximately $4.5 million Despite this growth, the company has remained intentionally human-scale—prioritizing quality, artistry, and workplace culture over mass production. A Culture of Craft Motawi Tileworks blends artistry with operational discipline. Since 2003, the company has incorporated lean manufacturing principles inspired by Toyota, ensuring efficiency without sacrificing the handmade nature of each tile. At its heart, the Tileworks is a place where artists, craftspeople, and problem-solvers collaborate—where every glaze line and carved mold carries intention. Rooted in Story What began at a local farmers market has grown into a nationally recognized studio, yet the spirit remains the same: curiosity, experimentation, and a love of beautiful, lasting objects. Founder Nawal Motawi’s journey—from garage startup to industry leader—continues to shape the company’s ethos: make things that matter, and make them well.