Are You Ready for a Change? Think “Transitional”

We’ve all been looking forward to the New Year and all the changes it brings. This is the time of year we always think about transitions and starting fresh. For 2021, most of us really crave beginning the transition back to living life the way we did before 2020 hit with all of its challenges.

If you’ve shopped online for home décor lately, you’ve probably come across the category “transitional” style and perhaps been confused by what it is. The fact of the matter is you probably recognize transitional style without even realizing it.

What is Transitional Style?

Transitional style can best be described as a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary styles. While traditional décor is often very formal, and contemporary design can feel cold and hard-edged, transitional style incorporates the best of both worlds. More approachable than traditional, warmer and softer than contemporary, it exudes an easy elegance that makes you feel right at home.

The middle ground between Colonial Williamsburg at one end of the spectrum and Scandinavian minimalism at the other, but far from middle-of-the road boring, transitional design is refined yet comfortable, classic yet updated, understated rather than fussy, and never jarring to the eye.

Natural Materials and Serene Shades

Imagine a living room with hardwood floors, contemporary artwork in simple frames, windows with lightweight draperies or roman shades (or completely unadorned), and a cashmere throw on a cozy club chair.

Transitional style living room
Photo courtesy Ethan Allen

Neither stuffy nor stark, transitional seating tends toward oversized and comfy, with a mix of textures rather than bold prints. Instead of filling a room with a matched set of furnishings, transitional style can start with something old, like a cherished vintage piece, and blend in something new, blending with color and texture to create a cozy setting. Wood, glass, and metal tables and cabinetry are balanced by soft or nubby upholstered pieces.

Saturated, bright colors are used sparingly for a just spot of interest. Colors throughout are sophisticated neutrals with the addition of soft, serene shades of blues, greens, or other calming tones.

Transitional style kitchen
Custom kitchen by T&K

Transitional kitchens often feature marble or quartz counters, neutral backsplashes, pared-down pendant light fixtures, and shaker cabinets with sleek hardware.

Are You Ready? We Are!

If you’re ready for a change, we’re ready to hear your ideas and see your wish list! We have lots of ideas of our own for your home to transform it into the welcoming place for celebrations that you may have put on hold for the past year. Get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation and we’ll get started.