What Is Transitional Style?
Hint: The Best of Both Worlds
In case you haven’t noticed, we’re really into transitional style. By blending contemporary with classic, transitional style becomes one effortless, cohesive design. Transitional style refines the great pieces you already own to create an even more versatile and approachable aesthetic.
Transitional-Style Colors & Materials
To incorporate this style into your home, it’s easiest to start with a neutral base for big pieces of furniture, paint, and floors, and then layer in pops of bold colors through rugs, throw blankets, and pillows. Need a place to start? We love sapphire blue, mustard yellow, and burgundy.
Transitional style is also all about texture. Look for furniture made with wood, steel, metal, and glass. Headboards, dining chairs, sofas, and accent chairs in neutral-colored fabrics are also popular. For throw blankets and pillows, opt for nubby chenille, corduroy, and soft suede.
Transitional-Style Furniture
Furniture in the transitional style blends the straight lines of contemporary furniture with the curves of classic pieces. Think: a bar stool with fine, straight-lined legs but a curved, upholstered back. Blending the two creates an identity that doesn’t lean more towards masculine or feminine, modern or traditional. Instead, it’s an appealing combo of the two. When choosing large pieces – a sofa, dining table and chairs, or bed frame – consider the style that appeals to you the most. Then add in elements of a different style for balance – throw pillows, wall art, and other decorative objects – to create your signature style.
Transitional style should be intentional, relevant, and versatile. We love a few thoughtful details that tie the room together. Think: a wooden tray, a metallic table lamp, and a few plants.
For a transitional-style living room, we’re really into a space that looks beautiful but still feels approachable. Adding throw pillows (and swapping them each season) is one of our favorite ways to elevate and refresh a room. Another tip: Vary the fabrics and materials you use in your living room. We love pairing an upholstered chaise lounge with a wood coffee table, or try a soft rug with metal lighting. If you’re feeling bold, break the rules by pairing unexpected materials like cane and dark wood.
Your kitchen and dining room are the most popular areas of your home. However you use these spaces – whether it's making waffles for your little ones on Sunday morning or drinking a glass of wine while planning your next getaway – you want this area to feel both streamlined and comfortable.
For kitchen inspiration, focus on neutral-colored backsplashes and natural wood tables, bar stools, and sideboards. Mix it up by choosing vintage dishes or contemporary appliances that will pop against neutrals. If you’ve chosen more traditional furnishings, try balancing the room with modern lighting. We love matte black or chrome pendant lighting over countertops and kitchen islands. While styling your dining room, consider mismatching your dining chairs and layering patterned rugs for unexpected twists.
A transitional-style bedroom strikes a flawless balance between old and new. Tufted headboards make a cozy statement piece – for maximum impact, pair them with a few throw pillows, a sleek table lamp, and modern nightstands.
Transitional-style bathrooms mix classics like claw-foot tubs with modern tiles. Ceramic countertops, wood vanities, and brass pendant lighting are popular choices. When it comes to decor in transitional bathrooms, keep it minimal and organized. We love to incorporate storage baskets and trays that double as decor to neatly store items together.
For your transitional-style patio, start with clean-lined furniture and neutral textiles. Mix prints and patterns by rolling out a patterned rug and adding throw pillows or cushions. Finish the transitional look with string lights and a few decorative planters.
