Hakatai Enterprises Inc., importer and distributor of glass mosaic tile since 1997, was recently specified by Kraig Kalashian of Studio 1200 for the ultra-modern and upscale renovation of the Flat Iron Restaurant and Tapas Bar inside the new Bulfinch Hotel in downtown Boston, Massachusetts.
The nine-story hotel, named after 19th century architect Charles Bulfinch, is just a short walk from Boston’s trendy Faneuil Hall, and is shaped quite literally like the surface of a flat iron. The triangular dimension and limited space available, only 1500 square feet, magnified every decision Studio 1200 made in the design phase of the restaurant. Complicating matters were four large support columns, two in the bar area, one in the lounge and one at the nose of the triangle, which Studio 1200 turned into perfect design elements by surfacing each with Hakatai’s Aventurine Series of glass mosaic tile.
Hakatai’s Aventurine Series is characterized by its rich, translucent surface, and Studio 1200’s choice of tile sparkles and shimmers in the softly lit restaurant and bar area, adding depth and elegance to this new high-design hot spot in the heart of Boston. Studio 1200 incorporated 200 square feet of the ¾” x ¾” Aventurine Series in the stylish hue of Henna as part of a palette of materials designed to create an edgy and visually entertaining atmosphere.
“This is not a chain package or a restaurant meant to mimic others,” said Kalashian. “We wanted to make it upscale and interesting. We ordered samples from Hakatai and were immediately impressed with the quality and the price. We wanted only the most luxurious and tactile surfacing throughout; materials that beg to be touched. We used Hakatai’s glass tiles to redefine the entrance experience for customers. It created a retro, modern feel that people seem to really like.”
The Aventurine Series from Hakatai is available in a variety of translucent and opaque colors inspired by nature, offering depth and elegance to a variety of surfaces. Available mesh-back mounted on 1.15 square foot sheets, this glass tile line is ideal for interior and exterior use, walls, countertops, backsplashes, light residential floors and pools. Go to www.hakatai.com to view the Aventurine Series and to utilize Hakatai’s innovative custom design tools to create glass tile blends and gradients with Aventurine and other select glass tile lines.
For more information, please contact Hakatai Enterprises at: 701 Mistletoe Road, Ashland, Oregon 97520, or by phone: 541-552-0855, fax: 541-552-0861, or email: info@hakatai.com. Check out the Hakatai Enterprises website at: www.hakatai.com.
