Malibu Potteries

Malibu Potteries

Company type	Private
Industry	Ceramics manufacturing
Founded	1926
Founder	Rhoda May Knight Rindge
Defunct	1932
Headquarters	Malibu, California , United States
Products	Ceramic tiles
Number of employees	125

Malibu Potteries was a ceramic tile producer located in Malibu, California, established in 1926 by Rhoda May Knight Rindge. The company specialized in tiles inspired by Moorish, Egyptian, Mayan, and Saracen artistic traditions, frequently featuring intricate geometric motifs. It gained acclaim for its tile murals depicting peacocks and various birds, along with elaborately decorated floor tiles reminiscent of Persian rugs. The historic Adamson House, constructed by Rindge's daughter, contains numerous prominent examples of Malibu Potteries' tile artistry.

History

Malibu Potteries originated under the corporate identity Marblehead Land Company after Rindge identified deposits of red and buff clays on her Malibu estate, following unsuccessful oil drilling near Zuma Beach. A manufacturing facility was set up along the coast to produce ceramic tiles.

Rindge enlisted ceramic engineer Rufus Keeler, previously employed by California Clay Products Company (Calco), along with designer William Handley, also from Calco. At its height, the enterprise employed approximately 125 individuals and produced over 30,000 square feet of tile each month.

The company catered to architectural and design sectors by supplying ceramic tiles suitable for both interior and exterior use, including applications such as flooring, walls, fireplaces, steps, tables, benches, and fountains. The designs reflected diverse cultural influences with an emphasis on geometric patterns and ornamental murals.

After the 1929 economic downturn caused a temporary closure, Malibu Potteries resumed operations briefly before a devastating fire on September 30, 1931, destroyed the factory. Remaining tile stock was moved to Rindge’s unfinished residence nearby. Following Rindge’s passing in 1942, the property was sold to the Franciscan Friars and renamed Serra Retreat. During the 1970 Malibu Canyon wildfire, Serra Retreat sustained damage but revealed a substantial store of Malibu Potteries tiles. Most of these tiles remained intact and were utilized for restoration projects or entered private collections.

Installations

• Adamson House, Malibu, California
• Los Angeles City Hall
• Mayan Theater, Los Angeles
• Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, Hollywood
• Dana Junior High School, San Pedro, California
• Union Station, Los Angeles
• Geffen Playhouse, West Los Angeles

Revival

Robert (Bob) Harris, a sound technician in the film industry, acquired a large assortment of Malibu Potteries tiles. In 1979, Harris partnered with ceramist Jim Sullivan to establish Malibu Ceramic Works with the goal of producing tiles that replicated the distinctive style and quality craftsmanship of Malibu Potteries.