How We Built an Outdoor Kitchen That Became the Heart of Every Party
It Started with a Grill… and Spiraled into a Backyard Dream
We didn’t set out to build the party house. Really, we just wanted a better spot to flip burgers. But somewhere between browsing porcelain pavers and picking the perfect backsplash, our backyard became the go-to gathering place for every holiday, game night, and impromptu taco Tuesday.
The secret? It wasn’t just the grill. It was the tile. And the layout. And the vibe. And, well, everything we found at AquaBlu Mosaics.
So here’s the story of how we built an outdoor kitchen that people never want to leave—and how you can do the same.
The Foundation of the Fun: Outdoor Porcelain Pavers
1. Soreno Grigio 24” x 24” Outdoor Porcelain Paver
We started with flooring. After all, every great kitchen—indoor or out—needs a solid base. We chose Soreno Grigio for its sleek, modern look and subtle stone patterning that feels effortlessly elegant. It holds up against spills, grease, guests, and weather, which means we don’t have to baby it.
Why it works:
- Slip-resistant, even when wet
- Stays cooler underfoot than concrete
- Durable enough for heavy appliances
- Easy to clean after a long night of hosting
Did You Know? Porcelain pavers like Soreno Grigio absorb less than 0.5% of water, making them frost-resistant and ideal for year-round use. Source
2. Trevi Silver 24” x 24” Outdoor Porcelain Paver
We loved Soreno for the patio, but around the kitchen zone, we added Trevi Silver for contrast and dimension. It’s slightly more textured, giving a rustic touch that grounds the cooking space. Plus, it pairs beautifully with stainless appliances.
Pro tip: If you’re zoning your backyard—think dining, lounging, grilling—use different pavers to define each area without building actual walls.
A Backsplash That Dazzles After Dark
3. Stella Oceano 2” x 10” Ceramic Tile
We weren’t planning on adding a backsplash to our outdoor kitchen, but once we saw Stella Oceano, it was over. These ceramic tiles shimmer in the sunlight and practically glow under our bistro lights. They added just the right pop of color to balance out the neutral tones of our pavers and counters.
Why it’s a party favorite:
- The glossy, deep ocean blue adds bold personality
- Easy to wipe down after messy meal prep
- Heat-resistant, which is ideal near grills and ovens
Tile Truth: Ceramic tiles can withstand temps up to 1,000°F, making them perfect for outdoor kitchens. Source
Where Form Meets Function: The Counter Wall
4. Gems Grigio 5” x 10” Porcelain Tile
For the base of our counter and bar wall, we wanted something with texture and visual depth. Gems Grigio delivered in every way. Its neutral hue kept the design cohesive while the elongated shape created a stacked-stone look without the weight or upkeep.
Why it earns its spot at the bar:
- It’s low maintenance but looks high-end
- Coordinates with both Soreno and Trevi pavers
- Won’t fade or crack in sun and rain
Why AquaBlu Mosaics Was Our Go-To
We didn’t just love the tiles—we loved the process. AquaBlu made it easy to go from “inspiration overload” to one cohesive vision. Here’s what made them stand out:
1. A Curated, Designer-Level Catalog
From rustic chic to resort-ready, the AquaBlu site offers tiles for every taste, style, and weird backyard corner you forgot needed a glow-up.
2. Incredible Customer Support
We had questions. A lot of them. AquaBlu answered every one with patience, product knowledge, and great design suggestions.
3. Luxury That Lasts
Everything we ordered is built to withstand the outdoors—and our rowdiest guests. Quality like this turns a seasonal investment into year-round living.
Quick Stat: Outdoor kitchens can return up to 71% of your investment when selling your home. Source
Hosting Has Never Been Easier
Since we built our outdoor kitchen, it’s become the heart of every party. It’s where people gather, graze, gossip, and linger long after dessert. And if we had to start over, we’d do it all the same—right down to the last tile.
Ready to Build Your Outdoor Kitchen?
Shop the Products from Our Project:
Whether you’re starting small or dreaming big, AquaBlu has everything you need to create an outdoor space that brings people together.
FAQs: Outdoor Kitchen Tile & Backyard Design
What is the best tile for an outdoor kitchen?
Porcelain tiles are ideal due to their low water absorption, durability, and slip resistance. They handle temperature swings, spills, and foot traffic with ease.
Can ceramic tile be used in an outdoor kitchen?
Yes, but it depends on the placement. Ceramic tile like Stella Oceano is perfect for walls and backsplashes—not ideal for flooring where freeze-thaw cycles are common.
How do I clean outdoor kitchen tile?
Use a mild soap and water solution. Avoid acidic cleaners, which can damage the finish. Regularly sweep and hose down your pavers to keep dirt and grime from settling.
Will porcelain pavers get hot in the sun?
Porcelain pavers retain less heat than concrete or natural stone, especially in lighter colors like Soreno Grigio or Trevi Silver. Want even more cooling? Add a shade structure or pergola.
How do I design zones in my outdoor space?
Use different tile styles or colors to subtly define areas like cooking, dining, and lounging. It helps your yard feel both functional and cohesive—without putting up walls
