The Dream Home of Chef Sara Kramer: From Vision to Reality
In the heart of Los Angeles’ Echo Park neighborhood, Chef Sara Kramer has transformed her charming home into a vibrant sanctuary that embodies her passion for cooking and connection to nature. Sharing this haven with her partner Emil DeRosa and their dog Kevin, Kramer’s journey from a wild, overgrown yard to a personalized garden paradise serves as an inspiration for many.
A Culinary Dream Takes Root
Kramer’s vision for her outdoor space blossomed from her culinary roots. Having carved a niche for herself as the opening chef at Glasserie in Brooklyn, she often dreamt of harvesting herbs and vegetables from her own garden. “I could already see it,” she recalls, imagining scenes of pulling tender fennel bulbs and plucking juicy Blenheim apricots as she envisioned cooking over an open fire, serving butterflied fish under the setting sun. But five years ago, when she purchased her Echo Park home, it was instead a tangled mass of bushes and chaotic plant life.
While she initially renovated the garage space and transformed it into a rentable suite, Kramer always longed for her own culinary garden. The decision to settle in Los Angeles in 2014 set her on a path of success when she and business partner Sarah Hymanson opened Kismet in 2017, quickly gaining a stellar reputation for its vibrant Mediterranean fare. The restaurant reflected her passion for fresh ingredients and inspired a recent cookbook, highlighting her journey in the kitchen.
Embracing the Outdoor Space
“The thing that drew me to the house in the first place was the outside space,” Kramer expresses, recognizing the immense potential that her property represented. Though the house had seen renovations prior to her purchase, it was still somewhat wild. Nevertheless, she savored the idea of cultivating her own garden, allowing her culinary expertise to flourish right outside her kitchen door.
When the time came to undertake renovations, Kramer sought the help of her neighbor David Godshall, a principal landscape architect at Terremoto. The first order of business was updating the termite-riddled back deck and painting the home’s exterior with Dunn-Edwards’ Travertine hue. Beyond that, she wanted to create a seamless blend of beauty and functionality that would accentuate her passion for cooking.
The Grand Transformation
With the practical updates completed, Kramer and Godshall turned their focus to designing a spectacular outdoor cooking area. The pièce de résistance is the bespoke firebrick grill, where Kramer enjoys charred vegetables amidst the allure of al fresco dining. A stunning oven designed by James Herman further elevates the outdoor experience, creating a luxurious and functional space for culinary creations.
The renovation spurred the installation of gravel paths and an enclosed front yard, ensuring that Kevin could explore safely. In the backyard, winding wood and gravel stairs lead down to the grand finale: a sleek wood-clad hot tub and outdoor shower, enveloped by the fragrant embrace of jasmine and passion fruit. Here, Kramer and DeRosa relish sunsets and the soothing sound of rain, perfectly embodying the tranquil vibe they sought.
Personal Touches and Artistic Flair
Inside the home, delightful surprises await. Kramer’s creative spirit is reflected on the clean white walls adorned with artwork from neurodiverse artists showcased at the Summertime Gallery in Brooklyn, including pieces by Max Karnig and prints by Luke Gilford and Charlie Engman. This selection not only enhances the home’s aesthetic but also demonstrates Kramer’s support for inclusivity in the art community.
Her curated collection of furniture includes a cherished vintage Danish hutch and a Yamaha piano, hinting at her past as a Broadway performer—a delightful twist to her culinary narrative. The eclectic blend of décor styles showcases her personality and passion, further enriching the domestic atmosphere.
A Culinary Oasis
Kramer’s vision of a culinary oasis is complete, marrying her love for cooking with outdoor living. Fava bean pesto, fresh citrus, and vibrant tomatoes are just a few of the delights she can now serve guests on her locally handcrafted dining table nestled in the garden. This space is more than just an outdoor kitchen; it’s a celebration of her journey, her roots, and the culinary delights that bring joy to her and her loved ones.
In embracing the wild beauty of her property and transforming it into a magical outdoor space, Sara Kramer demonstrates the power of dreams and dedication. From the rich earth of Echo Park, she’s cultivated more than a garden; she’s cultivated a lively extension of her life, one that’s nourished by the sun, the rain, and a touch of culinary magic.
