Bert & May Outdoor Kitchen Design: Stunning Greige & Green Tile Backsplash

Struggling to create an outdoor kitchen that’s both beautiful and built to last? You’re not alone; many find that materials that look good on day one quickly fade, crack, or stain when exposed to the elements, turning a dream project into a constant maintenance headache. It’s frustrating when your vision for a stylish al fresco dining space is compromised by a lack of durable, yet elegant, options.

To achieve a stunning Bert & May outdoor kitchen design, focus on creating a statement feature with their signature handmade tiles, which are known for their frost resistance and reclaimed aesthetic. Combine these artisanal tiles with natural materials like wood and concrete to create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow perfect for stylish entertaining. This approach ensures both lasting durability and a bespoke, high-end look.

Drawing from proven design methodologies and the brand’s heritage craft, this guide will walk you through creating a breathtaking greige and green outdoor kitchen. We will deconstruct a real design statement into seven actionable ideas, revealing the specific tiles, materials, and techniques you need. Discover how to build a space that not only looks incredible for 2026 and beyond but truly withstands the elements.

How Can I Achieve an Elegant Bert & May Outdoor Kitchen Design?

Achieving an elegant Bert & May outdoor kitchen hinges on a core principle: celebrating the imperfect beauty of handmade quality materials. Unlike mass-produced options that offer sterile uniformity, Bert & May’s artisanal tiles—from raw terracotta to pigmented cement—bring a story and a soul to your garden. The brand’s philosophy centers on creating a seamless internal-external flow, where your outdoor space feels like a natural extension of your home’s interior. This is accomplished by using materials with a reclaimed aesthetic and proven proven durability. By leaning into the subtle tonal variations and unique textures of tiles handmade in Spain, you create a space that is not just a place to cook, but a true design statement that enhances your entire garden and elevates your outdoor living experience. The key is to combine these character-rich surfaces with clean, modern lines and natural elements to achieve a look that is both timeless and perfectly suited for sophisticated outdoor entertaining.

7 Stunning Ideas for Your Bert & May Outdoor Kitchen Design

The true magic of a Bert & May outdoor kitchen design lies in how its core elements come together to form a cohesive, breathtaking whole. While the overall vision is inspiring, the best way to make it achievable is to break it down into distinct, actionable ideas. This listicle deconstructs the featured “Greige & Green” kitchen into seven stunning, replicable concepts. From the vibrant tile backsplash that serves as the heart of the design to the final touches of lighting and greenery, each step provides a clear path to recreating this modern farmhouse look. We will explore the specific materials, pro techniques, and styling tips needed to incorporate each element successfully, turning your bespoke kitchen project from a dream into a reality.

1. Style a Stunning Greige & Green Tile Backsplash

Pin this beautiful backsplash idea to your ‘Outdoor Living’ board!

The kitchen backsplash is the focal point of this design, injecting color and a luxurious artisanal finish. Using green glazed tiles creates a vibrant, glossy reflective surface that is both beautiful and practical for an outdoor setting, as it’s incredibly easy to clean. The beauty of Bert & May handmade tiles lies in their subtle imperfections and color variations, which means your backsplash will be a unique work of art.

Key Design Elements

• Bert & May Glazed Tiles: Select a style like ‘Skye Green’ or ‘Fennel’ square glazed tiles for their rich, glossy reflective finish and subtle tonal variations.
• Waterproof Backer Board: A cement-based board designed for exterior use is essential.
• High-Quality Thin-Set Mortar: Choose a polymer-modified mortar rated for exterior use and porcelain tile.
• Epoxy or Urethane Grout: Select a grout that is stain-proof, waterproof, and resistant to UV fading.
• Tile Sealer: A premium penetrating sealer specifically for glazed tile grout joints to prevent moisture ingress.

How to Recreate the Look

1. Prepare the Wall: Install a waterproof backer board securely to the wall behind your countertop area, ensuring all seams are properly sealed.
2. Plan Your Layout: Do a dry-fit of your tiles on the ground to plan your pattern and ensure you like the distribution of the natural color variations.
3. Apply Mortar & Set Tiles: Apply a thin, even layer of exterior-grade mortar to a small section of the wall. Press each tile firmly into place, using spacers for consistent grout lines.
4. Grout the Tiles: After the mortar has cured (typically 24-48 hours), apply the epoxy or urethane grout, pressing it deep into the joints. Clean off any excess from the tile faces immediately.
5. Seal the Grout: Once the grout is fully cured, seal all grout lines with a penetrating sealer to protect against staining and frost damage.

Pro-Tip: For outdoor applications, ensuring proper substrate preparation is critical to prevent efflorescence (white chalky deposits). Always use a high-quality waterproof membrane behind the backer board for an extra layer of protection against moisture.

2. Install Earthy & Durable Terracotta Flooring

Save this rustic flooring idea for your dream patio!

The foundation of any great outdoor space is the flooring. A patio tile design using Bert and May terracotta provides an unmatched warmth and reclaimed style. This earthy, rustic material serves as the perfect hardscaping to ground the kitchen, offering a beautiful contrast to the sleek concrete and glazed tiles. While it requires proper sealing to become weatherproof, the resulting character is well worth the effort.

Materials Needed

• Bert & May Terracotta Tiles: Choose either reclaimed terracotta for ultimate character or new handmade tiles like the Hexagonal Terracotta. Ensure they are specified as frost resistant for your climate.
• Gravel and Sand Sub-base: For creating a stable and level foundation.
• Exterior-Grade Mortar or Tile Adhesive: Specifically formulated for heavy, porous tiles like terracotta.
• Wide-Joint Grout: A grout designed for wider spacing (up to 1/2 inch) typical with handmade tiles.
• High-Performance Penetrating Sealer: A breathable sealer for terracotta that protects against water, oil, and staining.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Foundation: Excavate the area and lay a 4-inch layer of compacted gravel, followed by a 1-inch layer of sand. Ensure the base is perfectly level and slopes slightly away from the house for drainage.
2. Lay the Tiles: Begin laying the tiles from a corner, applying a generous layer of mortar to the back of each tile (back-buttering). Press firmly into place, using wide-joint spacers.
3. Grout the Joints: After the mortar has cured, mix and apply the wide-joint grout, ensuring it fills all the gaps completely. Use a damp sponge to clean the excess grout from the tile surface.
4. Perform the Initial Clean: Once the grout is firm, haze may appear. Clean this with a dedicated grout haze remover.
5. Seal Thoroughly: This is the most crucial step. Apply multiple coats of a high-performance penetrating sealer until the tiles no longer absorb it. This makes them weatherproof and stain-resistant. Re-seal every 1-2 years.

Pro-Tip: In climates with freeze-thaw cycles, ensuring absolute frost resistance is paramount. While traditional terracotta can be susceptible to cracking, many modern Bert & May options are fired at higher temperatures or treated to withstand the elements. Always confirm the product’s specifications and PTV (Pendulum Test Value) for slip resistance with a design consultation.

3. Design a Chic Tiled Outdoor Bar Front

Pin this outdoor bar idea for your summer entertaining!

The front of your kitchen island or bar is prime real estate for making a design statement. Using handmade cement tiles with subtle geometric designs transforms a simple structure into a piece of art that defines your modern outdoor living space. Bert & May cement tiles, hand-poured by fourth-generation artisans, feature a signature matt finish where the pigmented cement runs through the entire tile, meaning the pattern will never fade.

Supplies Needed

• Bert & May Cement Tiles: Choose a pattern in a neutral palette, like the ‘Asquith’ or ‘Majadas’ design in a greige or charcoal.
• Cement Backer Board: To create a flat, stable surface on the bar’s frame.
• Polymer-Modified Thin-Set Mortar: Formulated for heavy cement tiles.
• pH-Neutral Tile Cleaner: Essential for cleaning cement tiles without damaging the surface.
• High-Quality Impregnating Sealer: A breathable sealer is critical for protecting porous cement tiles from moisture and stains outdoors.
• Sanded Grout: For standard grout lines.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Clad the Bar Frame: Attach cement backer board to the entire front and side surfaces of the bar structure.
2. Dry-Fit the Pattern: Lay out your tiles on the ground to perfect the pattern alignment before committing. This is crucial for geometric designs.
3. Install the Tiles: Apply mortar to the backer board and back-butter each tile. Press them into place, working in small sections. Use 2-3mm spacers.
4. Clean and Pre-Seal: Before grouting, clean the tiles with a pH-neutral cleaner. Once dry, apply a coat of impregnating sealer. This prevents the grout from staining the porous tile surface.
5. Grout and Final Seal: Apply the grout, then clean away the excess. After the grout cures, apply several more coats of the impregnating sealer to both the tiles and grout until the surface is fully protected from moisture.

Pro-Tip: The key to longevity for outdoor pigmented cement tiles is sealing. They are naturally porous. I recommend testing your sealer on a spare tile first to see if it alters the color. Re-sealing is not optional; it should be done annually to prevent weathering and staining.

4. Incorporate Warm Natural Wood Accents

Love this rustic modern mix! Pin it to your ‘Home Inspo’ board.

To achieve that signature modern farmhouse vibe, you must balance the cool tones of tile and concrete with the warmth of natural materials. Wood provides essential texture and a touch of rustic charm. Using reclaimed wood for shelving or selecting weather-resistant teak for bar stools pairs with wood’s organic warmth to the coolness of the tiles, creating a space that feels balanced, inviting, and sophisticated.

What You Need

• Weather-Resistant Wood: Choose woods naturally high in oils, like Teak, Ipe, or Acacia, for key elements. Alternatively, use reclaimed wood for shelving but ensure it’s properly treated.
• Outdoor-Grade Wood Sealer: A marine-grade spar urethane or a penetrating oil finish designed for exterior wood.
• Natural Wood Bar Stools: Select sturdy stools made from solid Teak or Acacia wood.
• Floating Shelf Brackets: Heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant brackets for open shelving.
• Wooden Serving Ware: Large wooden chopping boards, bowls, and serving trays to soften the look.

Styling Steps

1. Select Key Furniture: Style the space by grounding it with key wooden pieces. A set of solid teak or oak bar stools provides the most significant impact and functional warmth.
2. Install Open Shelving: Install thick, reclaimed wood floating shelves against the tiled backsplash. This breaks up the tile and provides a warm, rustic display area for plants and serving ware.
3. Accessorize with Wood: Use large wooden chopping blocks and serving boards leaned against the backsplash or resting on the counter. This is an easy, non-permanent way to add texture.
4. Protect All Wood: Treat every wooden element—even those rated for outdoor use—with a high-quality UV-blocking, waterproof sealer. Re-apply annually to prevent the wood from weathering to a silver-grey (unless that is the desired look).

Pro-Tip: When using reclaimed wood outdoors, be mindful of its history. Avoid wood with lead paint and ensure it’s thoroughly cleaned. To maintain the rich color, use a penetrating oil finish rather than a film-forming varnish, which can peel and crack under sun exposure.

5. Finish with Lush, Integrated Greenery

Bring your outdoor kitchen to life! Pin this green-thumb idea.

The final layer of outdoor styling involves integrating plant life to connect the kitchen with the garden. This concept, known as biophilic design, is about more than just decoration; it’s about creating a space that feels alive. Potted herbs on the counter are not only beautiful and fragrant but are also practical for al fresco dining. This touch of green softens the hard surfaces and completes the indoor-outdoor feel.

What You Need

• Terracotta and Ceramic Pots: A variety of sizes to create different levels and points of interest.
• Edible Herbs: Hardy herbs like Rosemary, Thyme, Mint, and Basil that are useful for cooking.
• Trailing Plants: A plant like English Ivy or String of Pearls to cascade over shelves or from a hanging basket.
• High-Quality Potting Mix: A mix with good drainage is essential for container gardening.
• Small Watering Can: To keep plants hydrated and close at hand.
• Optional: Vertical Planter: For a space-saving herb garden on a nearby wall.

Styling Steps

1. Pot Your Herbs: Plant your chosen herbs in various terracotta pots. Place the most-used herbs, like rosemary and basil, in smaller pots directly on the countertop for easy access while cooking.
2. Create Levels: Place larger potted plants, like a small olive tree or a bay laurel, on the floor at the corners of the kitchen area to help with garden zoning.
3. Utilize Shelving: Arrange smaller pots and a trailing plant on your open wood shelves. The cascading greenery softens the hard lines of the tiles and shelves.
4. Consider a Living Wall: If space allows, install a vertical wall planter on a wall adjacent to the kitchen and fill it with a variety of lettuces and herbs for a functional and beautiful living art piece.

Pro-Tip: To create a cohesive look, the green of your plant life should complement the green glazed tiles. The silvery-green of rosemary or the deep green of basil will naturally harmonize with the artisanal finish of Bert & May tiles, reinforcing the biophilic design concept.

6. Select Sleek Greige Concrete Countertops

Pin this sleek countertop idea for a modern outdoor kitchen!

For outdoor kitchen surfaces, you need a material that is exceptionally durable, heat-resistant, and weatherproof. Poured concrete countertops, tinted to a soft greige, offer a contemporary and industrial-chic contrast to the rustic tiles and wood. This choice creates a seamless, hard-wearing workspace that is perfect for the demands of modern outdoor living, while its neutral color allows the vibrant backsplash to take center stage.

What You Need

• High-Strength Concrete Mix: A mix specifically designed for countertops, often with additives for increased strength and reduced shrinkage.
• Melamine or Plywood: For building the countertop mold.
• Reinforcement: Wire mesh or fiber reinforcement to add tensile strength and prevent cracking.
• Concrete Pigment: A greige-colored pigment to mix into the concrete for an integral color.
• Food-Safe Concrete Sealer: A high-performance, penetrating sealer that is non-toxic and protects against stains from oil, wine, and acidic foods.
• Concrete Polisher/Sander: To achieve a smooth, honed finish.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Build the Mold: Construct a precise mold for your countertop shape out of melamine-coated particleboard, either for pre-casting or pouring in place.
2. Mix the Concrete: Combine the concrete mix, water, and greige pigment according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The consistency should be like thick peanut butter.
3. Pour and Vibrate: Pour the concrete into the mold, ensuring it fills every corner. Vibrate the mold using a rubber mallet or an orbital sander on the sides to release air bubbles.
4. Cure the Concrete: Cover the concrete with plastic and let it cure for several days. This slow curing process is vital for achieving maximum strength.
5. De-mold, Polish, and Seal: Once cured, carefully remove the mold. Use a wet polisher with progressively finer diamond pads to hone the surface to a smooth matt finish. Clean the surface thoroughly and apply multiple coats of a food-safe, penetrating sealer.

Pro-Tip: The final look of concrete is heavily influenced by the curing process and the sealer. For a more uniform, matt finish, use a penetrating sealer. For a glossy reflective look and enhanced color, a topical sealer can be used, but it may require more frequent re-application outdoors.

7. Select Modern Farmhouse Lighting Fixtures

Light it up! Pin this perfect modern farmhouse lighting.

Proper lighting design is what transforms an outdoor kitchen from a daytime-only spot to a functional space for outdoor entertaining well into the evening. Layered lighting is key. Matte black metal accents, such as gooseneck-style wall sconces, provide essential task lighting over the prep and cooking areas while fitting perfectly with the modern farmhouse aesthetic. This is complemented by ambient string lights that create a warm, inviting atmosphere for guests.

What You Need

• Task Lighting: 2-3 matte black, gooseneck “barn light” style wall sconces. Ensure they are UL-rated for outdoor wet locations.
• Ambient Lighting: A set of heavy-duty, commercial-grade string lights with Edison-style LED bulbs.
• Accent Lighting (Optional): Small, low-voltage uplights to illuminate plants or architectural features.
• All-Weather Electrical Boxes and Conduit: All wiring must be safely enclosed and rated for exterior use.
• Dimmer Switches: Install dimmer switches for both task and ambient lighting to control the mood.

Styling Steps

1. Install Task Lighting: Install the gooseneck wall sconces above the main work areas—the grill and the countertop prep space. Position them to illuminate the tasks without creating glare for the cook.
2. String Up Ambient Lighting: Drape the string lights over the entire outdoor kitchen and seating area. This creates a warm, inviting canopy of light for outdoor entertaining.
3. Add Accent Lights: Place small uplights at the base of any large plants or pointed towards the textured, tiled bar front to highlight these features after dark.
4. Zone Your Controls: Wire the task, ambient, and accent lighting to separate dimmer switches. This allows you to create bright light for cooking and a soft, warm glow for dining and relaxing.

Pro-Tip: When planning your lighting design, consider the color temperature of your bulbs. For a warm, inviting farmhouse feel, choose bulbs in the 2700K to 3000K range. This will cast a cozy, golden glow that enhances the natural materials, rather than a harsh, blue-white light.

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Bert & May Outdoor Kitchen Design

• Embrace Artisanal Tiles: The core of a Bert & May outdoor kitchen design is using their signature handmade tiles. The natural variations in glazed, cement, or terracotta tiles provide a unique reclaimed aesthetic that cannot be replicated.
• Prioritize Weather-Resistance: For any outdoor installation, material choice is critical. Ensure your tiles are frost resistant for your climate and use exterior-grade mortars and waterproof grouts to prevent frost damage and cracking.
• Sealing is Non-Negotiable: Porous materials like raw terracotta and pigmented cement must be thoroughly sealed with a high-quality impregnating sealer to protect them from moisture and staining. This is the most crucial step for long-term durability.
• Balance Textures: Create the iconic modern farmhouse look by balancing cool, hard surfaces like tile and concrete with the warmth of natural wood. Use teak or oak for stools and shelves to create an inviting atmosphere.
• Layer Your Lighting: A successful outdoor entertaining space requires layered lighting. Combine focused task lighting (like gooseneck sconces) over workspaces with ambient string lights over the seating area to create both function and mood.
• Function Dictates Form: Beyond aesthetics, a great design is functional. Plan for an effective workflow, use durable, food-safe countertops, and integrate practical elements like fresh herbs in your biophilic design.

People Also Ask About Bert & May Outdoor Kitchen Design

Which tiles are best for outdoor spaces?

The best tiles for outdoor spaces are those with high durability, low water absorption, and good slip resistance, such as porcelain, frost-resistant terracotta, and properly sealed cement tiles. Porcelain is extremely durable and non-porous. Bert & May specializes in handmade cement and terracotta tiles which offer a unique aesthetic but require sealing to be weatherproof and prevent frost damage. Always check that the specific tile is rated for exterior use in your climate.

Can Bert & May glazed tiles be used for an outdoor backsplash?

Yes, many of Bert & May’s glazed tiles are perfectly suited for an outdoor kitchen backsplash. The glazing creates a wipeable, stain-resistant surface that is easy to clean. It’s crucial to use a waterproof grout and ensure the wall behind the tiles is properly sealed to prevent any moisture from getting behind them, which could cause issues during freeze-thaw cycles.

Are cement tiles frost resistant?

Cement tiles can be frost-resistant if they are installed and sealed correctly. The key is to use a high-quality penetrating sealer to make the tile’s surface non-porous. This prevents water from being absorbed, which is what causes cracking during a freeze. For climates with harsh winters, it is vital to confirm the specific product’s suitability and follow a rigorous sealing and maintenance schedule to prevent frost damage.

Do I need to seal outdoor tiles?

Yes, you absolutely need to seal porous outdoor tiles like terracotta and cement. Sealing protects them from water absorption, staining from spills, and damage from the elements. A high-quality, breathable, penetrating sealer should be applied upon installation and re-applied every 1-3 years depending on weather exposure. Non-porous materials like porcelain do not require sealing themselves, but sealing the grout is still recommended.

What is the difference between cement and porcelain tiles for outdoor use?

The main difference is porosity and maintenance. Porcelain tile is fired at very high temperatures, making it extremely dense, non-porous, and virtually maintenance-free. Handmade cement tiles offer a reclaimed aesthetic with a soft, matte finish, but they are porous and must be meticulously sealed to be used outdoors. Porcelain often mimics other materials, while cement has a unique, authentic character.

Are terracotta tiles slippery when wet?

Unglazed, raw terracotta tiles typically have a natural, textured finish that provides good slip resistance. However, some machine-made or sealed terracotta can be smoother. When choosing any outdoor flooring, it’s important to check its PTV (Pendulum Test Value) or slip rating. A higher PTV indicates better slip resistance, which is a critical safety factor for patios and pool surrounds.

How do I clean outdoor cement tiles?

Clean outdoor cement tiles with a pH-neutral cleaner and water. Avoid acidic cleaners (like vinegar) or harsh detergents, as they can strip the sealer and etch the surface of the tile. For stubborn dirt, use a soft-bristle brush. The most important part of keeping them clean is maintaining the sealer, which prevents dirt and grime from penetrating the tile in the first place.

Can I use patterned tiles for a fire pit surround?

It depends on the tile material and its heat resistance. Many porcelain and some natural stone tiles are heat-resistant enough for a fireplace or fire pit surround. However, you must use a heat-resistant mortar and grout. Materials like handmade cement tiles may not be suitable for direct high-heat applications, as extreme thermal shock can cause cracking. Always consult the manufacturer’s specifications.

What is the best flooring for outdoor kitchens?

Porcelain tile is often considered the best all-around flooring for outdoor kitchens due to its exceptional durability, stain resistance, and low maintenance. It comes in countless styles, including wood and stone looks. However, for a specific reclaimed aesthetic, properly sealed Bert & May terracotta or cement tiles are excellent choices that offer unparalleled character and a handmade quality.

How do you create a seamless indoor-outdoor look with tiles?

To create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, use the same tile flooring in the interior room that opens to the patio. This continuity visually merges the two spaces. Choose a tile that is rated for both interior and exterior use, such as a high-quality porcelain or properly sealed cement tile. Using large format tiles with minimal grout lines can further enhance this effect, making both areas feel like one expansive living space.

Final Thoughts on Your Bert & May Design

Creating a Bert & May outdoor kitchen is about more than just building a place to cook outside; it’s an investment in a lifestyle of beautiful and functional outdoor living. By thoughtfully combining the artisanal tile collection with durable materials and layered design elements, you craft a space that is both a practical workspace and a stunning backdrop for memories. The key is the synthesis of the authentic reclaimed aesthetic and the technical diligence of proper installation—sealing, waterproofing, and weather-proofing. This ensures your design statement is not fleeting but endures for years of enjoyment. What part of this greige and green design will you incorporate into your garden first?

Last update on 2026-03-05 at 09:07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API