Welcome to Home Design Chat with Nancy! I’m Nancy  Before we begin I am going to ask you to subscribe on the platform you use to listen to my podcasts.

 Have you noticed that summer is moving quickly so we have the perfect subject – trends for outdoor living. It is not just about a stand-a-lone grill on a concrete slab and a picnic table.  Outdoor living has become a, luxurious extension of the indoor home.

To break down exactly what is trending, what materials actually survive the elements, and how to design a spectacular outdoor culinary space, I have the perfect guest today. Joining me is Gil Olachea from Ceramica, Scottsdale, Arizona.

The biggest shift we’re seeing in 2026 is the transition to multiple cooking zones and methods or appliances, heavily mimicking how indoor kitchens are designed – something you know a bit about! Instead of just one primary grill doing all the heavy lifting or cooking in a gazebo, pergola or patio, layouts now include distinct zones for prep, cooking, baking, storage and serving.

Replacing the traditional grill, utensil cart(s) and fold-up table has become very popular trend.  I’ve seen outdoor kitchens that are better equipped and laid-out than their indoor kitchen.

The main topic of discussion was the aesthetic and surface materials for the outdoor kitchen.

The materials of choice are, primarily, easy clean & maintenance.  Aesthetic is a close second.  And material manufactures are attune to this so they’re making products that address both of these key aspects!  Such as porcelain, large-format tiles for the floors and complimenting surfaces for island & cabinet fascia.  Regarding color palettes, it becomes personal preference but the trends are leaning toward the warm earth tones.

We talked about best, high-performance countertop materials for an outdoor kitchen that won’t fade, crack, or burn someone’s hand when the sun hits it. We broke down the best materials in various parts of the country and what to avoid in each area.

We talked in depth about the materials today and wanted to spend enough time on the outdoor kitchen layouts and also the very important safety factors when you are planning your outdoor project.  That is why this topic will be continued on July 20th.  This is so important if you are planning to create an outdoor kitchen area.

Thank you for listening to Home Design Chat with Nancy. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, share it with friends and family, and join us next time as we continue exploring the latest ideas, innovations, and trends shaping the homes we love.

You can contact Nancy with any questions or suggestions for the show:  [email protected]      Check out her website:  NancyHugo.com     

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