If you are wanting to do a simple kitchen remodel before the holidays, now is the time – I said simple because the major remodels will take time so if that’s what you had on your wish list – do your homework now and prepare to start in January—after the holidays.
If you are not familiar with the term Kitchen triangle, work triangle or the golden triangle, at the end of this podcast you will know everything about this term.
Go to my Youtube channel to view the video of my latest project : https://www.youtube.com/@NancyHugo
Check out DesignersCircleHQ.com for all the latest in design. Send me your email if you would like to have Designers Circle sent to you bi-monthly.
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram.com
Please email me at Nancy@nancyhugo.com for questions and suggestions on design topics you would like to learn about.
If you want to learn more about me, go to NancyHugo.com
You have all heard the expression, "Learn from other people's mistakes."
Today my topic is about items homeowners specified but after living with these products, the truth is told.
If you decide, after listening to my podcast, that you still want to use these ideas/products, that's fine, because it's your home. You make your own choices.
If you have any comments or want to share your experiences, please email me at Nancy@nancyhugo.com
Here is a list of items people are sorry they have in their home:
Go to my Youtube channel to view the video of my latest project: https://www.youtube.com/@NancyHugo
Check out DesignersCircleHQ.com for all the latest in design. Send me your email if you would like to have Designers Circle sent to you bi-monthly.
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram.com
Please email me at Nancy@nancyhugo.com for questions and suggestions on design topics you would like to learn about.
If you want to learn more about me, go to NancyHugo.com
In this episode of Home Design Chat with Nancy, Nancy welcomes back Gil Olachea, owner of Ceramica in Scottsdale, for a lively and candid conversation about today’s most talked-about design trends.
Together, they dissect what the public is loving—or leaving—in home design, and how these choices really play out in function and long-term value.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Why the kitchen island sink is both loved and loathed
The necessity (or not) of electrical outlets in islands
The ongoing debate over pedestal sinks in bathrooms
Open floor plans—are we still embracing them?
The pros and cons of the doorless master bathroom
Barn doors—trendy touch or tired cliché?
Why greige paint continues to dominate the color palette
Listener reactions and personal opinions on even more trending design choices
Key Takeaway:
Not every trend is a smart choice. Gil and Nancy explain how some ideas look great on Pinterest but may not be practical for everyday living.
This episode helps homeowners and design lovers think critically before jumping on the trend bandwagon.
Go to my Youtube channel to view the video of my latest project : https://www.youtube.com/@NancyHugo
Check out DesignersCircleHQ.com for all the latest in design. Send me your email if you would like to have Designers Circle sent to you bi-monthly.
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram.com
Please email me at Nancy@nancyhugo.com for questions and suggestions on design topics you would like to learn about. If you want to learn more about me, go to NancyHugo.com
In this episode, I will get into one of the most critical steps in any successful remodel or construction project: hiring the right general contractor.
Whether you're planning a kitchen remodel, a bathroom upgrade, or a full home renovation, choosing the right GC can make or break your project. I discuss the essential questions to ask, what red flags to avoid, and how to tell if a contractor is the right fit for you.
Some of my talking points:
Go to my Youtube channel to view the video of the project I spoke about in this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@NancyHugo
Check out DesignersCircleHQ.com for all the latest in design. Send me your email if you would like to have Designers Circle sent to you bi-monthly.
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram.com
Please email me at Nancy@nancyhugo.com for questions and suggestions on design topics you would like to learn about.
If you want to learn more about me, go to NancyHugo.com
Today I am going talking about one of the most important — yet often overlooked — keys to a successful kitchen or bath project: trust and mutual respect between the homeowner and designer.
Too often, clients second-guess their designer by consulting salespeople, subcontractors, or even neighbors. But if you've done your homework, checked references, and feel confident in the designer's past work — then trust should naturally follow.
I’ll also share a very personal and powerful story: a kitchen remodel that transformed into a full house rebuild after a devastating fire. What started as a simple kitchen design turned into a multi-year journey of trust, collaboration, and creativity with my clients. You’ll hear about:
Why clear communication and shared goals matter before any work begins
How I balanced client wishes with expert recommendations
Design solutions that resulted in a highly functional, beautiful kitchen
The collaborative process that helped bring unique features to life, such as a custom backsplash, furniture-style refrigeration, and a multifunctional outdoor space
This story illustrates the impact of a healthy designer-client relationship — one based on open communication, honesty, and mutual respect.
Go to my Youtube channel to view the video of the project I spoke about in this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@NancyHugo
Check out DesignersCircleHQ.com for all the latest in design. Send me your email if you would like to have Designers Circle sent to you bi-monthly.
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram.com
Please email me at Nancy@nancyhugo.com for questions and suggestions on design topics you would like to learn about. If you want to learn more about me, go to NancyHugo.com
In this episode of Home Design Chat with Nancy, Gil Olachea, owner of Ceramica in Scottsdale, Az, talks about everything you need to know regarding the care and maintenance of your tile.
Gil is a tile expert with decades of experience and often co-hosts this podcast sharing his knowledge on many subjects.
After spending the time and money on tiling your home, either by doing it yourself or by hiring contractors, Gil and I thought it would be important to talk about maintaining your tile on the floor, in the shower and/or your backsplash.
Whether your tile is porcelain, ceramic, natural stone, or glass, this episode will help you keep it looking beautiful, safe, and easy to maintain for years to come.
Talking points:
✔️ The do’s and don’ts of cleaning tile
✔️ How to protect grout from staining
✔️ Tips for extending the life of your tile
✔️ Common mistakes homeowners make—and how to avoid them
Gil suggested the following websites for more information on tile maintenance:
www.stonepeakceramics.com
www.stonepeakceramics.com
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram.com
Go to DesignersCircleHQ.com to learn more about design.
Please email me at Nancy@nancyhugo.com for questions and suggestions on design topics you would like to learn about.
If you want to learn more about me, go to NancyHugo.com
Visit my youtube channel to see my latest project: https://www.youtube.com/@NancyHugo
In case you haven’t noticed, time is passing quickly and it’s hard to admit that we are all aging.
Whether you're planning ahead or have already noticed some day-to-day challenges in mobility, vision and strength for yourself and/or for your loved one, designing your forever home should include smart spaces that are safe, stylish, functional, and comfortable.
Today I am going to talk about ideas for your home that will help to keep you independent, comfortable, and safe without compromising your home's aesthetics.
If you are listening to this podcast and you are 30-40ish, then you most likely have parents who are of the age where these suggestions could be applied to their home.
Since my podcasts are audio I describe what I am talking about especially with guests. When I had my radio show someone told me that radio and I would include podcasts in this is theater of the mind. I took his advice to heart and always try to create a picture for the listener.
I am going to talk about one of my projects but I have a surprise at the end.
I would appreciate a comment on the video.
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram.com
Go to DesignersCircleHQ.com to learn more about design.
Please email me at Nancy@nancyhugo.com for questions and suggestions on design topics you would like to learn about.
If you want to learn more about me, go to NancyHugo.com
Today, I’m excited to welcome a special guest to the show — Ray Smith, a talented kitchen and bath designer based in Phoenix, Arizona.
Not only is Ray a general contractor & owner of Precision Design & Cabinetry, but he has also built a reputation for creating beautiful, functional spaces that truly reflect his clients’ lifestyles and personalities.
With a keen eye for detail and a passion for smart, stylish design, Ray is dedicated to transforming kitchens and bathrooms into spaces his clients not only love to look at — but love to live in.
Get ready for an inspiring conversation filled with expert tips, design insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring dream spaces to life!
Some of the topics we covered in today's show:
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram.com
Go to DesignersCircleHQ.com to learn more about design.
Please email me at Nancy@nancyhugo.com for questions and suggestions on design topics you would like to learn about. If you want to learn more about me, go to NancyHugo.com
I am excited to have Munir Turunc as our guest today.
Munir is the CEO of Marble Systems which was started in 1982.
Marble systems brings the finest natural stone to the design & architectural community specializing in high-end residential, commercial and hospitality projects.
Munir has led Marble Systems for nearly 40 years, transforming it into one of the most respected and design-forward names in the natural stone industry.
Most recently, the company was recognized by Hospitality + Design with the “Best Flooring” award — a testament to its craftsmanship and innovation in luxury design.
Here are some of the questions I asked Munir:
Listen to this podcast for more interesting information about marble, granite, quartzite and tiles.
Check out Munir's website: https://www.marblesystems.com/
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram.com
Go to DesignersCircleHQ.com to learn more about design.
Please email me at Nancy@nancyhugo.com for questions and suggestions on design topics you would like to learn about.
If you’ve ever dreamed of updating your bathroom and tiling your shower yourself, this episode is for you.
Gil Olachea, owner of Ceramica in Scottsdale, explains the step-by-step process of tiling a shower from a DIY perspective.
Whether you're working on a small stall or a large walk-in, this guide will help you understand what materials and tools you’ll need—and walk you through the job with confidence.
Gil lists what tools and materials you will need for this task. He will also explain the 10 steps to tile the shower.
Tiling a shower is a satisfying DIY project—but it’s not a small job. Take your time, follow each step carefully, and your new shower will not only look amazing—it’ll last for years
This podcast concludes the series, "How to tile like a pro." Hope you enjoyed it and was encouraged to tackle a small tile project.
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram.com
Go to DesignersCircleHQ.com to learn more about design.
Please email me at Nancy@nancyhugo.com for questions and suggestions on design topics you would like to learn about.
We all love a clean home but I don't know anyone who has the time to spend hours cleaning.
The trick is to design your home with easy maintenance in mind, unless of course you love to clean. Gil Olachea, owner of Ceramica, joins me in the topic of high design vs low maintenance.
We will give you ideas on what to substitute for the following high maintenance items:
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram.com
Go to DesignersCircleHQ.com to learn more about design trends & more
We’re seeing wallpaper used strategically—in powder rooms, accent walls, ceilings, and even closets. It’s no longer about covering every wall in floral prints. It’s about statement-making, and adding texture, dimension. And personality to your home.
Whether you want a bold statement wall or a subtle touch of elegance, the right wallpaper can completely change the look and feel of your room.
Today I will explore why wallpaper has made a comeback and where it can be used.
Different wallpaper styles:
Top picks:
Wallpaper is definitely IN for 2025, but it’s about thoughtful use, quality materials, and pairing with your existing style. Don’t be afraid to experiment, especially in small or unexpected spaces.
This podcast was brought to you by Monogram.com.
Go to DesignersCircleHQ.com to learn more about design.
Welcome back to our special series: Tiling like a Pro.
This podcast explains everything necessary for you to complete your tile backsplash project.
Of course, Gil Olachea, owner of Ceramica in Scottsdale, is back to give the final instructions for your backsplash project.
If you missed previous podcasts on "tiling like a pro, you will find them posted on Designers Circle, Spotify, NancyHugo.com and several other platforms.
Gil will explain the following:
Materials to use
The Process
The Final Steps
Hope the listeners who learned from these podcasts and decided to install their tile backsplash will take pictures and send them to Nancy@nancyhugo.com. Gil and I would love to see them.
Our next episode of "Tiling like a Pro" will cover the difficult process of tiling a shower. We recommend leaving this job to the pros unless you have had experience in tiling showers.
And of course, we recommend that homeowners know the process even though a professional will be contracted to do the job. This podcast will air June 16th.
Check out Designers Circle for design trends, design news and more.
For more information about Nancy go to NancyHugo.com
Email Nancy@nancyhugo.com for any questions you might have for Gil Olachea or Nancy
This podcast is sponsored by Monogram Appliances.
This is being recorded on Mother's Day and as I always say, "Every Day is Mother's Day!"
I thought today would be a day to talk about Aging in Place as all the mothers who are still with us are needing help and attention as they age. (Of course, we're not forgetting about the fathers!)
I have been hearing about "my forever house" as people who are remodeling would like to stay in their home as long as possible before the possibility of moving in with a child or going to a facility.
Reasons for the elderly to move in or near family.
Tips and ideas that will make it easier and safer to live in the home….theirs or yours:
This informative podcast brought to you by Monogram.com appliances.
If you would like to be included in DesignersCircleHQ.com, please send your email to Nancy@Nancyhugo.com.
If you would like to know more about Nancy, go to NancyHugo.com
Gil Olachea, owner of Ceramica in Scottsdale, Arizona, is back with me to finish the important subject of budgets.
We began the discussion on April 7th and decided to continue it today since we had so much to cover and didn't want to omit anything.
If you missed the first podcast, I would suggest listening to it before you proceed with today's podcast.
The budget is an essential subject for anyone who is going to spend money whether it’s for a new car, a new home or a remodeling project, and managing your budget is a crucial part of your project.
On April 7th we discussed the following:
Today we will talk about:
This podcast sponsored by Monogram.Com
I am forever getting notices about what's in trend for 2025 which I share on podcasts and Designers Circle.
Today I am going to share 6 kitchen trends that designers give a thumbs down to for 2025.
Some of these ideas have been on the lists of several designers and most I agree with. Email me and give me your opinion on these design ideas.
I will also explain again why I do podcasts and Designers Circle which is to educate the homeowner and DYI.
Designers Circle is a short one pager giving you the trends, what do know about design and this podcast all noted on the home page. You can bookmark it or put your name on this list to get it emailed to you twice a month.
This is a short but informative podcast brought to you by Monogram.com appliances.
Welcome back to our Tiling Like a Pro series! In Parts 1 and 2, Tony Scuderi laid the groundwork—literally—by covering tile selection, surface prep, and floor tiling techniques.
Now, it’s time to shift our focus upward to a key design feature that can transform any kitchen or bathroom: the backsplash.
While backsplashes may seem like a smaller tiling project, they pack a big visual punch and require just as much planning and precision as larger installations.
From choosing the right materials to handling tricky outlets and achieving clean lines, this part of the process is where creativity meets craftsmanship.
Today Gil Olachea will walk you through what it takes to tile a backsplash like a pro—whether you're going bold with patterned tiles or keeping it classic with subway. Let’s turn that blank wall into a stunning focal point.
We will cover the following in this podcast and will continue on May 19th with part II of backsplash installation.
This podcast sponsored by Monogram.Com
Who doesn’t like to be organized? It could be extremely overwhelming to reorganize closets and storage areas but don't give up.
You can have the luxurious master closet you have always dreamed of or the the perfectly organized pantry where everything is easy to find.
Today my guest is Jennifer Q. Williams, owner of St Louis Closet Company, in St. Louis, Missouri.
Jennifer has experience in organizing every room in her clients' homes.
During our interview Jennifer answered lots of questions about organizing.
If you have questions that weren't answered during this podcast, please feel free to email Nancy@nancyhugo.com.This podcast sponsored by Monogram.Com
Gil Olachea is back with me right on time. Gil, owner of Ceramica in Scottsdale, AZ, joins me the first week of every month to talk about anything and everything that would be of interest to homeowners.
Our subject today is your budget. An essential subject for anyone who going to spend money whether it's a new car, a new home or a remodeling project.
Our topics today:
This topic will continue when Gil comes back May 5th.
This podcast sponsored by Monogram.Com
Dan Huggins, Monogram's Senior Sales Manager, is back with me to talk about his busy schedule with Monogram.
He attended two of the biggest events in the design world: Modernism Week 2025 in Palm Springs and the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Las Vegas.
If you have never heard of Modernism week, it's the ultimate celebration of mid-century modern architecture, design, and culture offering many events including bus & walking tours and more open to the public.
Dan was excited to attend because Monogram Appliances was a sponsor at this event. For more information on this amazing week, click here
Dan then traveled to Las Vegas to attend Design & Construction Week which brings together architects, designers, builders, remodelers, and other pros for an unparalleled gathering highlighting the innovation, trends and opportunities in home and design.
More than 160,000 registered visitors attended the show, and of course, Monogram had a booth at the kitchen and Bath show at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Design & Construction Week is the place where new products are introduced by the manufacturers.
Monogram showed their new dual zone wine cooler and beverage center and several other products which Dan explains during the podcast.
This podcast sponsored by Monogram.Com
