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Meet The Maker Behind our Glass & Ceramic Wares

 

Mariana was born and raised in Mexico and grew up on an apple orchard. Forever inspired by the country of her birth and its culture and colors, she create Casa Maako as a way to conserve the traditional techniques of Mexico but with a modern and contemporary touch. Committed to supporting Mexican artisans, her ceramics and glassware are all made by hand and her designs use only recycled glass and eco-friendly packaging.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Mexico, and I grew up in my father’s apple orchard, until I was 5 years old. I think that’s where my appreciation and respect for nature began.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by my country, Mexico; I love its culture, its traditions and colors. I am also passionate about nature and my planet.

How and why did you start this business?

I started Maako with the idea of creating pieces that conserve the traditional techniques of Mexico, but with a modern and contemporary touch and that at the same time respect nature. I want to promote the value of handmade products and have people understand the beauty of imperfection.

What part does sustainability play in your designs and life?

We use only recycled glass for our crystalware; and ceramics, as you know, are soil. All of our products are handmade, and we manufacture with traditional processes and not in series. We also use only eco friendly packages to ship and protect our products. In my daily life I always try to be conscious of what I can do to reduce my environmental impact, small steps every time.

How does where you are located inform your designs?

Unfortunately, there is not much design culture where I live. And that is why I look to position my brand internationally, and I also love to promote the name of Mexico throughout the world.

Favorite artists?

Charles & Ray Eames.

Song you have on repeat?

I never have a song on repeat, I love to create new playlists every season… so I have 4 playlists a year depending on my mood 😉 .

What’s your favorite material to work with and why?

Glass is my favorite material, I love how artisans work with it, but it is something that I have not managed to learn. On the other hand, ceramics seem kinder to work with, it is very therapeutic to work with this material and create new pieces.

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?

Fake it til you make it.

How do you decompress?

I like to travel, so this year has been hard to do.

What are some actions you take to live more sustainably?

We recycle and compost at home, avoid single plastic use, support the local market, among other things.

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

Shower 🙂

Do you consider aestheticism or functionality to be more important?

I think it is more important for things to function, once they do, they can be pretty.

What’s your creative process?

I first think of a Mexican theme, then I walk around, take pictures and start a moodboard. I start sketching and then reunite with the artisans to start sampling. It can take about 6 months to create a new collection.

What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever been?

San Miguel de Allende

What do you consider when sourcing for your products?

Beautiful and eco friendly.

What are you working on now?

A new colorful glassware collection. I can’t wait to share it with the world.

 

BECKETT SALAD PLATE $23                 BLAIR VASE  $25                           MINA SALAD BOWL $23