Transitional style marries Modern and Traditional style elements. Modern can be cold and Traditional can be stuffy, Transitional strikes the balance between them. Transitional style is light, warm and welcoming dotted with nods to culture and color all in perfect harmony.
The mass majority of photos on the inter webs today showcase Transitional spaces, perhaps the most prevalent genre of all interior design styles. Unlike forward-looking Modern or past-embracing Traditional, Transitional lives in the now.
Let us dive in to the elements of Transitional style:
Tip#1: Symmetry: Traditional style snubs order and chaos, bringing structure and organization to the table. This extends into Transitional style through symmetry. Clean lines, furniture groupings that feel inviting and minimized decor and flourishes. Symmetry means predictability which feels comforting and calming to the eye.
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Tip#2: Statement Lighting: Transitional style allots more stock in personality, cultural pieces and color then the narrower views of Traditional and Modern. This broadened character typically materializes through select pieces of decor and lighting (as decor is slim, so choose wisely). Light is imperative to this genre so ensure lighting reflects the feel of the space it lives in.
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Tip#3: Neutral on Neutral: The crux of Transitional style is neutral on neutral palettes. Natural materials and blends of beige, cream, taupe, tan, khaki and gray with mixes of chocolate, espresso or black rule. Avoid a monochromatic look, make sure to find a good blend and use neutral tones to contrast such as cream and black or darker gray. Use honest materials such as brown leather or wicker chairs and naturally woven rugs to anchor spaces.
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Tip#4: Preppy Patterns: Although neutral palettes reign supreme, don’t shy away from packing small punches. Transitional style embraces preppy patterns such as ikat, stripes, damask, eyelet and even polka dots and lives in the now (not the past like Traditional or the future like Modern). Avoid print overload, steer clear from animal prints and flowery patterns. Use patterns through pillows and accent furnishings to set off the tone-on-tone palette.
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Tip#5: Texture: Texture is promoted through neutral flooring such as carpet, natural wood, stone and tile as well as fabrics and select decor. Fabrics such as leather, velvet, sisal, burlap, chenille, rattan have a palpable feel. Tufted upholstery and woven rugs create depth. Blend matte and shiny finishes. Do not be afraid to throw in some small, metallic pieces or use select wallpaper with a subtle shine.
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Tip#6: Funky Secondary Palettes: Again, Transitional style should be current (but not too trendy). This can transpire through subtle punches like unique, secondary palettes that complement neutral tones. Proceed with caution. Typically these palettes permeate through upholstery and textiles. Rule of thumb: the lower effort and cost to switch out a palette, the better. Allow these colors to change with your mood or the seasons.
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Tip#7: Creative Storage: Like Modern style, Transitional spaces tend to have minimal accessories making creative storage critical. Ornamental pieces should be select and have an impact. Organizational methods should have clean lines like drawers or cubes and/or texture such as hand-woven baskets or metallic buckets.
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Tip#8: Straightforward Furnishings: Transitional style embraces its Modern inspiration with clean lines and straightforward furnishings. Furniture is simplistic with clean profiles, not full of baroque touches. Seating and bedding should be large scale, plush and inviting to encourage relaxation and conversation. Window treatments should be simple; use shades, basic panels or bamboo blinds. Transitional style, above all, should promote a feeling of rest and serenity.
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Exterior styles: Check out some sweet Transitional exteriors.
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Thus far we have covered Traditional, Hollywood Glam, Eclectic, Contemporary, Industrial, Rustic, Modern, Coastal, Mediterranean, Shabby Chic, Craftsman and Farmhouse in the Establish Your Style Series. Next up: Asian style.
Have a fabulous day! Until next time.
Jenn
