MUSICIANS JANEY KATZ - Zia Publishing

SYZYGY TILESINCE 1993, EMPLOYS 21SHE IS AN ARTIST, SALESPERSON AND BUSINESS MANAGER; HE IS A SCIENTIST,engineer and inventor. Together Lee Gruber and husband David del Junco form a complementaryduo that has put Syzygy Tileworks on the map in the world of handcrafted, custom tile production.Syzygy, a Greek word meaning a pair yoked together or two related things, is the perfect name forthe business. For 13 years the two have worked hand-in-hand toward building Syzygy into anationally recognized name in the industry.“It’s a great combination that has allowed us to grow the business together,” says Lee. “We’veexperienced steady, slow growth. We orchestrated it that way and very wisely so.”Lee and David’s patience, hard work and passion for their craft have paid off. The business recentlymoved to a 9,000 square-feet space at 106 N. Bullard Street, which includes a well-lit, openshowroom and retail space, graced by beautiful stone and tile-accented floors featuring Syzygy tiles as well as those of otherspecialty tile makers.“This is a big move for us,” Lee says, recalling the days when Syzygy consisted mostly of numerous experimentsin their garage. “Now the hope is to grow another 50 to 75 percent in the next two to three years.”Such growth would make room for another 10 employees, bringing their staff to more than 30. Since itonly hires locally, Syzygy is an integral part of the Silver City economy. The couple’s own example sets thetone in the workplace.“David and I both emphasize work ethic, respect and kindness,” says Lee. “I think that we’ve been fairlygenerous employers, and we hope that rubs off.”top, left: One of several display areas in the new building reflects the tile versatility offered by Syzygy. top,right: Lee and David next to one of their new kilns that will provide additional capacity and flexibility.22 – SILVER CITY LIFE