Style Spotlight: Transitional Design

The perfect blend of traditional and contemporary design elements, transitional style is a versatile, trend-proof middle ground. It starts with the classic silhouettes and proportions of traditional design, then smooths out the formal edges with simpler lines and fewer details for a casual, yet sophisticated look.

Though there are no hard rules for this style, it’s often characterized by a neutral color palette in shades of white, taupe, tan, and gray. Nickel and stainless steel are favorites for transitional hardware and fixtures, but warmer metal finishes can also be used. Matte golds and bronze tones work well for light fixtures, bathroom faucets, mirrors, and door hardware.

Transitional style is not as controlled or bare as minimalist design, but it’s best to limit accessories. Choose a few large decorative accents rather than lots of small chotchkies, and be sure to avoid bold, high-contrast pieces. For fabrics and wallcoverings, solid colors are preferred to busy patterns.

Need a little visual inspiration to help nail down the look? We’ve picked examples from some popular home improvement categories to illustrate how traditional plus contemporary design elements equal transitional style.

Bathrooms

In transitional bathrooms, carefully chosen accessories and soft colors create a soothing, spa-like feel. Sinks, toilets, faucets and hardware have clean, simple lines. To reduce visual clutter, choose vanities with plenty of storage to corral everyday necessities and keep countertops clear. Because the backdrop is neutral, this style offers the perfect opportunity to play with finishes. Opt for flooring and wall tiles with subtle textures and experiment with installation methods, like placing backsplash tiles in a grid rather than a more traditional bricklayer configuration.

Bathroom Faucets

Bathroom Sinks

Vanity Lights

Toilets

Kitchen

Transitional kitchens strike the perfect balance between hospitality and efficiency. They’re a place where people feel comfortable and want to gather, while offering the cook an uncluttered, streamlined workspace. Less stark than a contemporary space, transitional kitchen design makes room for interesting lighting, chic hardware, and carefully chosen accessories. Countertops are kept clear with the use of smart storage solutions hidden behind cabinet doors.  Learn more with our Kitchen Organization Guide.

Kitchen Faucets

Kitchen Sinks

Lighting

Transitional lighting — including pendants, wall sconces, and lamps — can bring casual elegance to any space. Transitional chandeliers are based on the silhouettes of traditional fixtures without all the the curlicues, baubles, and filigree. The curves are softer than contemporary lighting, giving transitional ceiling lights an easy, sophisticated look.  

Door & Cabinet Hardware

Traditional hardware often features raised designs and ornate backplates. Contemporary hardware is angular and without detail. Transitional hardware strikes a balance between the two styles, resulting in a highly versatile style.

Entry Hardware

Cabinet Pulls

Decor

Transitional style is simple and sophisticated. The color palette is neutral and accessories are kept to a minimum. Furniture has easy curves and upholstered pieces are covered in solid colors rather than patterned fabrics. Transitional rugs simplify the ornate patterns found in their traditional counterparts. Choose accents with simple shapes and subtle variations in color. Rather than several small pieces of wall art, opt for a single, large piece with strong visual impact.

Mirrors

Furniture

Rugs

Home Accents