Custom tile by Clay Imports of Austin

Printed and uniquely shaped tile is definitely having a moment right now. 

Designers and homeowners are moving away from subway tiles, and venturing off into a more artistic route by installing custom tile into their homes. We recently chatted with Gaby Hernandez, lead designer and project manager, at Austin's Clay Imports about how Austin homeowners can use decorative tile to add a bespoke element to their home.  

Visiting the Clay Imports shop at 12024 North Lamar was a magical experience in itself.  We got to enjoy Topo Chico while we toured the showroom and explored all the varieties of colorful tile.  So.  Many.  Choices!  

All of the tile Clay Imports carries is imported directly from Mexico, Morroco, Turkey, or Vietnam where it is handmade and responsibly sourced.   Homeowners can choose from cement, clay, encaustic, saltillo, and even special edition artist tiles that you can't find in other stores.  

For projects with a quick turn around time, Clay Imports keeps a wide variety of tile choices in stock.  For something one-of-a-kind, homeowners can also work directly with Gaby to create a completely unique and custom design.  

We were fortunate to see them install an especially touching project where they worked with an Austin customer to replicate the tile used in her grandfather's childhood home in Cuba.  Custom projects like that one take longer to complete, usually shipping in 6 - 12 weeks.  

While some clients have a specific idea of what they are looking for, Clay Imports also offers design services adapted to each client's needs.  They can help you narrow down the choices for your particular project or even create a digital rendering to show exactly how the tile will look in your home.   In addition to design, Clay Imports also provides installation and restoration services.  

Whether your project is big or small, Clay Imports is a fantastic local source for unique and handmade tile.  The hard part is choosing from all the beautiful tiles!  For more information about Clay Imports' services, please reach out to them at (512) 836-8500, visit their showroom at 12024 North Lamar, or drop Gaby an email at [email protected]. 

And give Birch the dog mascot a pet for us while you're there!