If you are ever near Sausalito, California you should definitely visit the Heath Ceramics Factory and Store. At this location since 1959 and founded by Edith Heath in the mid 1940′s, they produce on the premises the most beautiful, classic dinnerware. Purchased and revitalized in 2003 by Robin Petravic and Catherine Bailey, Heath is inspiring in so many ways. I just visited with my family this past week and it is so encouraging to see these quintessential items roll off a factory floor right here instead of coming into port on the next container ship. How lovely is this statement from a poster in their shop: “We believe in preserving the art of local manufacturing. Our products are timeless and combine craftsmanship with quality and design-each piece made to last a life time.”
Here are some photos from the store and factory:
Entrance to the Heath Factory shop (that's my dad in the entry way!)
Mold casting room
Recently cast cup handles
Mold making
Vases and pitchers ready for trimming and glazing
Making large bowls with a jigger
And then there is the fact that you get to see NEW things in the works, like these beautiful demitasse cups and multi textured tiles:
New demitasse cups
New tiles
Not to mention, a peak in the historical cabinet:
Cabinet with historic wares
Also, everywhere there are beautiful still lifes:
Mold making tools
Beautiful tiles in the warehouse
Glazing tests
Everyone working here seems so happy and engaged, both the craftspeople and the store staff, many of whom serve several roles. I really wish I could make it to the factory sale in November when they sell many of their one of a kind experiments. But, for a lovely opportunity anytime, here is just a peek of what you get to see in the factory store:
Sliver of the factory shop