Nawal Motawi

For over 20 years, the artisans at Motawi Tileworks have hand-crafted art tile in their Ann Arbor, Michigan, studio. These distinctive tiles are known for their rich glazes and uniquely American designs, inspired by nature, art and architecture. Unlike mass-produced tile, the unique design and beautiful craftsmanship of Motawi tile allow people to own and enjoy real art, which won’t go out of style and will last for generations.

Nawal Motawi, founder of Motawi Tileworks, was first exposed to the tile of the Arts & Crafts movement at Pewabic Pottery in Detroit, which she visited during her first college ceramics class. “My professor had just completed a gigantic tile mural created with Pewabic Pottery, which he took us all to see,” says Nawal, “and I immediately began to fantasize about someday making tilework like that!” In 1992 she set out on her own, starting what soon became Motawi Tileworks.

Today, Motawi Tileworks employs a staff of 30 and produces over 10,000 square feet of tile per year. You can buy Motawi tiles in our online gift tile store, by visiting us at our Ann Arbor gallery, or at one of 450 upscale showrooms, galleries, and gift shops nationwide.