We are a family owned business founded in 1997 by the husband and wife team of Elizabeth Whitfield-Cargile and Gary Cargile. Elizabeth received an MFA in Printmaking and Sculpture from Tulane University (the home of Newcomb Pottery); Gary a BFA in Sculpture and Ceramics from the University of SC.

As artists, we have always found a disturbing discrepancy between what is available on the market in terms of architectural elements for the home, and what we have admired in older American homes and travels in Europe. We believe that it is largely the handprint of the craftsman that has accounted for this notable difference and feel its absence is particularly missed in an environment one wants to call home. It was our desire to do our part to in some measure restore this timeless sense of beauty that led us to establish Terra Firma.

We do not have a showroom at our studio/factory, but ask that you please visit one of the
fine tile showrooms listed or have your architect or designer contact us directly.