It’s impossible to create quality products without quality materials, which is why our makers are so considerate about the materials (or ingredients) they use. For example, are they sustainable, durable, high-quality, innovative, organic, renewable, beautiful, functional, time-tested, healthy, delicious, or locally sourced? For this series we asked our Bay Area Made companies to tell us about the materials they use and why. Because materials matter!
MMclay is a ceramics studio based in San Francisco, founded by designer and ceramicist MaryMar Keenan. We create small-batch, handmade tableware and home goods focusing on everyday function with elevated design. Our pieces are used in hotels, restaurants, and homes around the world, made-to-order in our Hayes Valley studio. We believe that intentional design makes daily rituals feel a little more special.
Rocky Bottom Bowls
The Rocky Bottom Bowl has become a signature piece in our collection. Its design features a hand-carved, textured base and is available in three sizes: 9”dia x 3”h, 13”dia X 4”h, and 15.5”dia x 5”h.
The Rocky Bottom Bowl is made with a clay called Armagh that is made locally by artisanal clay maker Michael Haney of East Bay Clay in Richmond. It was named after the city in Northern Ireland his father came from. They are glazed with a handmade recipe we call Buttermilk. Bowls are fired at Cone 10 Oxidation in a gas kiln at up to 2350 degrees.
Armagh clay is a beautiful sturdy stoneware that is lovely to work with. It’s also an iron bearing clay body which is why it blushes orange when the matt white glaze is applied thin. The combination of the clay body and the glaze is very important as it’s very much a part of the final product.
Visit the MMclay Showroom + Production Studio at 69 Gough Street, San Francisco.
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