Galleries: Kitchen
Nature’s Magic
A tiny, isolated kitchen was a far cry from reflecting the lifestyles of a yoga instructor and a vegan. Crafted by Barbara Krai of Barbara Krai Interior Design, this Clearwater, Fla., kitchen was transformed into a peaceful, yet kid-friendly space.
“When we started to look at materials, the first thing I showed them was the blue granite, which they fell in love with,” said Krai. “Because of their waterfront location and the desire to incorporate as many natural elements as possible into the design, it was a natural choice.”
Natural cherry wood cabinets add warmth and contrast with the granite and travertine stone floor. Above these, glass and stainless steel cabinets lend lightness and tie into the appliances. “I wanted to keep the upper cabinets from being too heavy and enclosing the space,” explained Krai.
A large booth makes up for the previous dining space with room for six to eight. Leather with a Crylon finish covers the seats, and a washable textured fabric was used for the channel backs. “The booth had to be very user friendly and kid forgiving since it would be used for homework and craft projects as well as dining,” explained Krai.
A round copper table was created using a copper sheet with a swirled finish, which was also coated with an epoxy finish. A solid cherry bullnose edge then borders the table.
To keep a cozy feeling in the booth, Krai created an open barrier with two varieties of preserved grasses, which are lit by an LED strip. “In keeping with the natural healing theme, all the plants had to be natural,” added Krai.
“I personally love the way all the textures in the booth come together: the rich blue leather and chenille seating, the shiny copper top table, the accent-lit linen wall, the rich cherry wood, the warm Venetian plaster and the amber crystal light – all set off with the border of grasses and green glowing glass,” she said.
“The tropical underwater seascape stained glass window, which was inserted in a window with no view, is a colorful touch of whimsy,” explained Krai.
To replace the previous kitchen’s large marble fireplace, Krai proposed to add in a round fireplace with a 360-degree glass and a copper hood and flue. These elements tie into the copper leaf cathedral ceiling and copper surface of the dining table at the booth. “The fire is a natural element they wanted in their space,” said Krai.