What is your style? Is traditional style a bit too formal? Is contemporary style a bit too harsh? Do you feel like you like something in the middle, elements of both but can’t put your finger on it? The transitional style is an alliance between traditional and contemporary, taking the unique aspects of each and combining them to create a balanced blend of both.
For a fresh, tailored look, transitional design unites the simplicity of contemporary design with the refined elegance of traditional design. Design strategies in this style influence all elements from window fashions to flooring and emphasize clean lines, less color, and lots of texture to achieve a neutral space full of depth.
The base of a successful transitional design begins with the color palette. Subtle neutral colors create calm, relaxing spaces that are clean, uncomplicated and allow the other elements an opportunity to shine. Selecting white, tan, gray and beige may seem lackluster at first. However, when paired correctly, they become exciting, drawing you in and allowing your mind to relax and enjoy the space.
Setting foot into a transitional room means stepping onto thoughtfully selected flooring. Warm woods paired with soft carpets and textured rugs continues the goal of creating calm and depth. The evolution of design in rugs brings the homeowner more options in materials, patterns, colors and most importantly with this design style, textures. Various weaves, braids, and fabrics combine in infinite ways, producing intriguing patterns without the need for color and contrast.
Transitional furniture combines curves with straight lines, metals with woods and/or masculine and feminine features for a simplistic aesthetic that keeps the focus on the sophistication of the design. Pieces may be ample in scale, but not overbearing or intimidating. Mix and match minimalist pieces with more modern straight lines and carefully curated fabrics on relevant chairs, ottomans, and sofas for a subtle contrast.
Bring it all together with window fashions, lighting, accessories, and art. Select simple solid drapes without embellishments or ornate gatherings. Go big with a statement light fixture and striking artwork, while less is more with accessories.
Whether starting new or refreshing your space, the transitional design brings your space current, blends elements from different styles and allows for a calm yet dynamic room.
