When Katia Zaiontchkovsky moved into an older family home in Snug Harbour last fall, she felt the space was ideal for her growing family.
But the lawyer-turned-designer knew the six-bedroom home was also ready for a remake.
“The thing that bothered me the most in the house was the kitchen,” she says. “It had a very basic ’70s look. I just hated the countertops, and the backsplash.”
A chance encounter with artist Carlos V. Garcia during a drive to East End spurred an idea – transform the countertops through original artwork.
Carlos is noted for his public murals – including work at Morritt’s Resort, Margaritaville and the KAABOO music festival – but also does work in private residences.
The tropical greenery design on the cement countertops helps to create an indoor-outdoor feel in the home.
“There were also cracks in the countertops that I needed to hide,” says Katia.
She and Carlos chose a blend of black, gray and white paint, finishing the countertops with a clear non-toxic protective coat by Beyond Paint that is food-graded. Carlos completed the creation in one day.
She chose marble for the backsplash, using a geometric pattern to add a touch of interest and glamour.
“The geometrical background really works well when you put it next to a vibrant art piece,” she says. “It’s pretty unique.”
Katia is refurbishing other parts of the family home, shared with husband Stéphane Dahan and their three young children. Her goal is to create an art-deco style that has a touch of Hollywood and old-time glamour.
It’s familiar territory for the self-taught interior designer. Before moving to Cayman five years ago, she had completely refurbished four apartments in her native Paris.
She completed floor-to-ceiling renovations to Conch Point, the family’s former home in West Bay, and has since worked on several private and commercial properties on-island.
Katia says she has always had an eye for design and wanted to bring a more European influence to island interiors.
“I love details, I love texture, I love shapes, and I love putting these things together,” she says.
