Local Spotlight: Lucy Michel Pottery in Carmel-by-the-Sea
A Natural Fit for Carmel
Carmel-by-the-Sea has always celebrated craftsmanship, creativity, and a slower, more intentional way of living. Lucy Michel Pottery, a new shop in town from the accomplished and talented Southern California transplant, fits seamlessly into that tradition.
Photo courtesy of lucymichel.com
Handmade Ceramics with a Refined, Grounded Feel
At its heart, the shop showcases Lucy Michel’s handmade ceramics — pieces that feel both artful and grounded. Her pottery is understated yet expressive, with organic forms and natural tones that reflect a deep appreciation for materials and process. Lucy’s work reflects a thoughtful, hands-on approach to pottery, with each piece made individually rather than mass-produced. Her style favors timeless simplicity over trends, emphasizing balance, proportion, and subtle variation in form and glaze. The result is pottery that feels collected and lived-in from the start — objects that quietly celebrate the handmade process and carry the distinct character of the maker.
Photo courtesy of lucymichel.com
More Than Pottery
Beyond pottery, the shop offers a thoughtfully curated mix of accessories, home goods, apothecary items, and other beautifully made objects. The selection feels cohesive and personal, as if each item was chosen with the same care as the ceramics themselves. Perhaps most importantly, the majority of her curated selection is sourced from other Carmel artists, transforming her space into a co-op. It’s the kind of place where you might come in looking for a gift and leave with something meaningful for your own home as well.
From Los Angeles to Carmel
Lucy’s decision to open her studio and storefront in Carmel reflects a desire to be part of a close-knit, creative community — one that values handmade work and the stories behind it. Before relocating to Carmel, Lucy built a strong following in Los Angeles, where her work was already well received by collectors and design-minded customers. That foundation of success speaks to the strength and consistency of her craft, and it’s easy to see how her aesthetic translates seamlessly into Carmel’s creative landscape. The shop feels welcoming and unpretentious, inviting visitors to slow down, browse, and connect with the work on display.
Lucy Michel Pottery is located across from Carmel Plaza on Mission St.
Visit in Person
While Lucy Michel Pottery does offer many of its products online, visiting in person is highly encouraged. The storefront is located directly across the street from Carmel Plaza, making it an easy and rewarding stop while exploring the village. Our team member Nicollette recently stopped by and was immediately taken with the space and the pieces. She loved how approachable yet elevated everything felt — from the pottery to the complementary goods throughout the shop.
Location: Across the street from Carmel Plaza, Carmel-by-the-Sea
Current Hours: Thursday-Monday, 11 AM - 5 PM | Closed Tuesday, Wednesday
Whether you’re a longtime local or just passing through, Lucy Michel Pottery is well worth a visit — a beautiful reminder of why Carmel continues to attract artists, makers, and those who appreciate thoughtfully crafted treasures.
