Introduction
We are excited to showcase this stunning kitchen design that beautifully balances classic and contemporary elements. With its soft transitional style, neutral taupe palette, and warm wood accents, this space has a soothing and inviting ambiance perfect for casual family meals and sophisticated dinner parties alike.
In the paragraphs below, we will take you on a detailed tour of this exquisite kitchen, analyze what makes it work so well, and provide tips on how you can recreate this look in your own home. From the gorgeous custom cabinetry to the high-end appliances, no detail will be overlooked. Read on for an inside look at everything that makes this our Kitchen of the Week!
An Overview of the Kitchen’s Layout and Design
This kitchen features an open and airy layout with plenty of prep and storage space. Here is a quick rundown of the floorplan:
- The main kitchen area houses the cooking zone with a 6-burner gas range set into a large kitchen island. There is additional counter space provided by the island and surrounding base cabinets in a muted taupe finish.
- Across from the island sits the cleanup zone, with an undermount sink set into quartz countertops. More base cabinets in the same neutral taupe tone flank the sink providing extra storage.
- The perimeter of the room is lined with taller cabinetry topped with frosted glass for an airy feel. Open shelving breaks up the cabinetry and provides a place to display serveware.
- At the rear of the kitchen, built-in bench seating topped with taupe cushions and a large window overlooking the backyard create an inviting breakfast nook area.
- High-end stainless steel appliances and brass fixtures add hints of shine while tying into the warm wood tones found throughout the space.
The overall aesthetic is transitional in style with elements of both classic and contemporary design. By combining streamlined Shaker-style cabinetry with more ornate hardware and lighting fixtures, this kitchen achieves a soft and inviting look perfect for a family home.
An In-Depth Look at the Kitchen Cabinetry
The real star of this kitchen is the exquisite custom cabinetry handcrafted from maple wood. Not only does it provide plenty of storage space, but the neutral taupe finish and clean Shaker-style fronts give this kitchen its transitional look and feel.
The Island
The extra-large kitchen island is truly the focal point of the whole room. It provides ample prep space and extra storage in its four drawers and cabinets. The island pairs maple Shaker cabinetry with a taupe finish for a classic yet contemporary look. An overhang provides seating space for casual meals and entertaining.
Perimeter Cabinetry
Along the perimeter of the kitchen, cabinetry stretches from floor to ceiling to maximize storage. The upper cabinets feature frosted glass fronts that diffuse light beautifully while concealing contents. Drawers with brass pulls provide easy access to items so you don’t have to dig.
Open Shelving
In strategic spots along the perimeter, open shelving breaks up the cabinetry. The shelving adds visual interest while also providing space to display beautiful serveware or cooking accessories. The wood shelves coordinate nicely with the warm wood countertops.
Breakfast Nook Cabinetry
The built-in bench seating in the breakfast nook is topped with cabinetry for discreet storage. More Shaker-style drawers and cabinets continue the clean and simple aesthetic. Taupe cushions on the bench seats complement the cabinetry finish.
Countertops & Backsplash
This kitchen features countertops and backsplashes in natural stone that add organic texture and subtle pattern.
Quartz Countertops
The perimeter countertops are fashioned from smooth white quartz that resists stains, scratches, and heat. The neutral white backdrop lets the other kitchen elements shine without competing. Quartz requires very little maintenance compared to other natural stone.
Butcher Block Island
The kitchen island countertop is crafted from wood butcher block, which adds gorgeous organic pattern and color variation to the space. Butcher block is naturally antimicrobial so it’s perfect for food prep. Proper seasoning and maintenance is required to prevent dried out cracks.
Stone Tile Backsplash
A backsplash of stone subway tiles climbs the wall behind the cooktop and sink. The multicolored stone adds subtle natural variation and texture. The gray, tan, and white color palette blends seamlessly with the other kitchen finishes.
Flooring
The kitchen flooring is just as important as the countertops when it comes to completing the room’s aesthetic. This kitchen features two different flooring options that work together in harmony:
Wood Plank Tile
The main kitchen area features wood plank ceramic tile laid in a classic herringbone pattern. The rich chocolate brown tiles coordinate with the dark wood accents found throughout the space. The tile’s organic variation and texture resemble real hardwood.
Patterned Tile
Inside the breakfast nook area, intricately patterned Moroccan cement tiles laid in a geometric design add visual interest underfoot. The pattern echoes shapes found in the stone backsplash without competing. Cement tile is highly durable and resistant to cracking.
The two different tiles work together cohesively to add depth and visual texture to the flooring. The tiles are separated by a thin border of chocolate brown tile that pulls the whole design together.
Appliances & Hardware Finishes
The appliances and fixtures blend stainless steel, brass, and oil-rubbed bronze for an overall polished yet warm look.
Stainless Steel Appliances
The cooking appliances include a 6-burner gas Wolf range set into the kitchen island along with a stainless steel microwave and dishwasher that blend into the background. Stainless steel provides a streamlined look.
Oil-Rubbed Bronze Fixtures
The kitchen faucet and overhead lighting are finished in oil-rubbed bronze that has an antique patina. The dark bronze finish contrasts beautifully with the white quartz countertops. Oil-rubbed bronze adds a touch of ornate style.
Brass Hardware
Drawer pulls, cabinet knobs, and the kitchen sink are accented with unlacquered brass hardware. The soft glow and subtly aged look of natural brass coordinates well with the other metallic finishes. Brass offers a timeless, traditional touch.
Champagne Bronze Bar Faucet
The prep/bar sink located on the kitchen island pairs a quartz countertop with a tall champagne bronze faucet. The soft metallic finish contrasts nicely with the white sink and quartz countertop.
By combining different metal finishes that share an overall patina, this kitchen achieves a collected and curated look. The mix of materials and finishes add depth and subtle contrast.
Lighting
From dazzling pendant lights to soft under-cabinet lighting, the kitchen lighting provides both form and function.
Overhead Pendant Cluster
The kitchen’s focal point light fixture is a linear cluster of three pendant lights suspended above the island. Oil-rubbed bronze frames complement the cabinetry while the smoky glass shades diffuse light beautifully. The cluster adds sculptural intrigue.
Recessed Can Lighting
Recessed can lights set into the ceiling above the perimeter counter space provide abundant task lighting. The flush design preserves the clean lines of the ceiling. Dimmable LED lights are energy efficient and long lasting.
Under Cabinet Lights
Beneath the upper cabinets, LED strip lighting illuminates the countertops and backsplashes. The natural color temperature matches the pendant lights. The under-cabinet lighting provides a great workspace for food prep and cooking.
Breakfast Nook Chandelier
A gorgeous chandelier with a bronze finish and arms decorated with clear glass beads hangs above the breakfast nook table. It scatters festive light across the dining space and adds a touch of elegance.
Natural Light
Abundant natural light floods the space thanks to a large window located along the rear wall of the kitchen. The light brightens the entire room and gives the space an airy ambiance.
The kitchen lighting checks all the boxes, providing excellent task lighting, beautiful ambiance, and a dose of style. Theixtures integrate seamlessly with the overall kitchen design.
Final Touches
It’s the little details that pull the whole kitchen design together into one cohesive space:
- Glass-front upper cabinets reveal beautiful dishware on display adding visual interest.
- Frosted glass inserts in several cabinet fronts soften the line of sight and add dimension.
- Sleek metal barstools with tan leather seats complement the color scheme at the island.
- A decorative bowl filled with citrus fruits provides a pop of color against the neutral palette.
- The kitchen opens directly into the living area for an easy flow between spaces.
- Shelf brackets accent the open shelving adding architectural intrigue.
- The chrome pot rack mounted on the ceiling above the island adds a professional touch.
- Windows along the rear wall overlook a lovely backyard.
Each detail works together to create a kitchen that is simultaneously relaxed and refined. This kitchen truly has it all!
Benefits of a Transitional Kitchen Design
This kitchen does an exemplary job of blending classic and contemporary elements into a seamless soft transitional style. This look offers many benefits:
- Timeless and enduring – Transitional style has longevity and doesn’t feel trendy. It takes the best elements from traditional and modern aesthetics for a flexible look with widespread appeal.
- Familiar yet fresh – The familiarity of traditional details is balanced out with just enough contemporary touches to feel current without going too avant-garde.
- Simple yet luxurious – Streamlined forms paired with upscale materials and finishes create an uncluttered look that still feels luxurious and high-end.
- Relaxed aesthetic – Softer transitional kitchens feel laid back and approachable with enough personal touches to avoid feeling too sterile or impersonal.
- Accessible look – Transitional style can be customized to suit a range of budgets. Simple Shaker cabinets and quartz counters look refined without a huge price tag.
If you want a kitchen design that offers the best of all worlds, transitional style is the perfect aesthetic. It provides a timeless and inviting space.
Achieving This Look In Your Kitchen
Love the look and feel of this taupe and wood transitional kitchen? Here are some tips for recreating the general aesthetic in your own home remodel or redesign:
Cabinetry
- Opt for Shaker-style cabinet doors with recessed center panels. Painted or stained finishes both work well.
- Include frosted glass in upper cabinet doors for a lightweight feel.
- Incorporate drawer bases and pull-out shelves for easy access to contents.
- Consider two-toned cabinetry or small accents in a contrasting neutral shade.
Countertops
- Quartz or granite countertops in pale neutral colors complement most cabinetry without competing.
- Butcher block islands inject warmth. Opt for wood with dramatic grain patterns. Use water-resistant finish.
- For backsplashes, think about stone subway tile or ceramic tile with organic texture.
Hardware
- Unlacquered brass with its soft glow provides a traditional touch.
- Oil-rubbed bronze brings instant antique character and contrast.
- Stainless steel offers a streamlined look, especially for cooking appliances.
Textiles
- Upholster bench seating in linen or cotton in solid tan, grey, or cream. Use nailhead trim for a tailored detail.
- Layer natural fiber rugs to define separate kitchen zones without harsh lines.
- Opt for relaxed Roman shades or linen curtains at windows instead of stiff drapes or blinds.
Lighting
- Include a statement pendant light over your kitchen island to serve as a focal point.
- Under-cabinet strip lighting provides essential task lighting for food prep.
- Incorporate recessed can lighting to wash ceiling and walls with a subtle glow.
Final Touches
- Incorporate live plants and fresh flowers for organic touches.
- Display favourite serveware in open shelving or glass-front cabinets.
- Add unique details like beadboard to the breakfast nook or antique knobs to bring character.
Adapting just a few of these design concepts in your own kitchen can help you achieve a similar soft transitional look. Consult a kitchen designer if you need help pulling all the elements together in a cohesive way.
FAQ About Soft Transitional Kitchen Design
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about creating a soft transitional kitchen design:
What color cabinets work best for a transitional look?
Popular cabinet colors for transitional kitchens include warm wood tones like maple and oak as well as painted neutrals including off-white, light gray, pale tan, or taupe. Avoid stark whites or dark stains for a subtler transitional aesthetic.
What backsplash tiles work with a soft transitional style?
Subway tile and ceramic tile with organic variation in neutral colors make an excellent backsplash choice. Patterned cement tile or encaustic tile can provide visual interest behind the range in a transitional kitchen.
What type of countertops suit transitional kitchens?
Quartz and granite countertops are the most popular choices for transitional kitchen designs. Marble can also work well. Opt for neutral granite and quartz that isn’t too bold or full of heavy veining.
How do you create contrast in a transitional space?
Contrast can be created through cabinetry finishes like stained base cabinets with crisp white uppers. Mixing metal finishes like unlacquered brass and stainless steel also adds pleasing contrast. Use contrasting stone shapes or patterns sparingly between counter and backsplash.
What flooring options pair well with transitional kitchens?
Hardwood with wide planks or subtle distressing makes a nice choice. Ceramic wood-look plank tile and porcelain tile are also suitable options. Patterned encaustic or Moroccan cement tile works well in breakfast nooks or as a unique backsplash.
How can I give my kitchen island a transitional look?
Opt for Shaker-style cabinetry in a neutral stain or paint color on the island. Add one or two personalities contrast details like beadboard panels. Choose a countertop in a natural material like butcher block, granite, or quartz. Incorporate brass or bronze hardware and pendant lighting above.
Conclusion
This kitchen of the week exemplifies why a soft transitional style is such a versatile and inviting choice for family kitchens. The blend of taupe Shaker cabinets, buttery natural stone counters, warm wood accents, and polished metals strike the perfect balance between classical and contemporary design.
Details like frosted glass fronts, patterned tile, and unique lighting add just enough personality and visual interest without going overboard. This kitchen has a relaxed yet refined ambiance suited for casual family living, cooking and baking, holiday gatherings, and hosting elegant dinner parties.
We hope you enjoyed this up-close look at what makes this such a stunning space that can provide cooking and entertaining inspiration for years to come. From the layout and counter space to the special finishes and lighting, there are so many takeaways for creating your own beautiful kitchen whether you’re remodeling or redecorating.
Which is your favorite aspect of this soft transitional kitchen – the gorgeous custom cabinetry, welcoming breakfast nook, statement lighting fixtures, or something else? Let us know in the comments below!
