A transitional kitchen refers to a kitchen design style that combines elements of both traditional and contemporary styles. This creates a space that feels fresh and current while still retaining some classic features. When remodeling a transitional kitchen, there are several key elements to focus on to achieve this stylish and timeless look. In this kitchen workbook, we will explore the 8 main components that contribute to a successful transitional kitchen design.
Kitchen Layout
The layout of a transitional kitchen should promote an open, flowing feel while still being organized and functional. Here are some layout ideas to achieve this:
Combine Open and Closed Spaces
Aim for a balance of open shelving along with some closed cabinetry and drawers. The open shelves allow for an airy, spacious aesthetic while the closed storage keeps items tucked neatly away. Glass cabinet doors are another nice transitional touch, blending visibility with discreet storage.
Create Visual Flow
Position the kitchen cabinets, islands, and appliances in a way that enables smooth movement and flow. Avoid an overly choppy or fragmented layout. Curved kitchen islands help encourage a nice flow.
Thoughtful Transitions Between Rooms
If possible, create wide openings or expansive archways between the kitchen and other living spaces. This improves flow and creates a cohesive feel throughout the home.
Strategic Storage Solutions
Incorporate storage options such as pull-out drawers, spice racks, pan organizers and lazy susans. This maximizes storage and accessibility in the transitional kitchen.
Multi-Purpose Islands
Kitchen islands serve many purposes in a transitional kitchen, from extra counter space and storage to casual dining. Opt for a movable island to customize the room’s flow.
Countertops
The countertops play a big role in achieving that perfect blend of classic meets contemporary. Some effective options include:
Quartz
Quartz counters have the polish and visual flair of granite or marble with added durability. The patterns add interest while the neutral tones keep the look transitional.
Concrete
Concrete makes a statement while still appearing modern and minimalist. The grayish tone works well in transitional spaces. Just seal properly to prevent staining.
Butcher Block
Butcher block evokes a traditional vibe but adds warmth and texture to a contemporary space. It pairs nicely with stainless steel appliances. Proper maintenance is required to avoid damage over time.
Tile
From marble and travertine to glass and ceramic, tile offers endless options for transitional style. Mosaic tile backsplashes or textures like subway tile work especially well.
Be sure to select a counter depth and edge profile that complements the rest of the kitchen elements.
Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets set the foundation for the room’s overall look. Focus on these tips for choosing cabinets in a transitional kitchen:
Mix of Materials
Incorporate cabinetry in a mix of materials such as stainless steel, glass, wood tones and laminates. This blending of old and new materials is the essence of transitional style.
Neutral Tones
Soft white, warm grey and beige are safe bets for cabinet colors. They serve as a subtle backdrop that can be dressed up with bolder hardware and fixtures.
Door Styles
Opt for simple Shaker-style cabinet doors rather than ornate or overly embellished fronts. Clean lines fit the transitional aesthetic.
Wood Finishes
Go for light or natural wood finishes rather than very dark stains. White-washed, weathered gray, or whitewashed oak cabinets strike an ideal transitional tone.
Hybrid Approach
Use closed cabinets along the lower portion of the kitchen while the upper portion has more open shelving. This balanced approach keeps items tidy but still in view.
Kitchen Backsplash
The kitchen backsplash presents a prime opportunity to integrate vintage flair. Some excellent backsplash tile possibilities include:
- Subway tile – Classic white or light gray subway tiles are a safe bet for achieving a transitional look. Pair with dark grout for contrast.
- Penny tiles – The mosaic look of penny tiles establishes an aged feel but the small scale keeps it modern.
- Marble or travertine – Either material can lend an Old-World charm while still looking current.
- Patterned tiles – Use geometric, floral, or abstract prints for a bold transitional statement.
- Textured tiles – Handmade, cracked, or distressed tiles provide visual interest and dimension.
- Glass tiles – From translucent to frosted, glass tiles refract light nicely in a remodeled kitchen. Metallic glass tiles are especially stunning.
Lighting Features
Proper kitchen lighting sets the right mood and illuminates task areas. Lighting choices for a transitional kitchen include:
Statement Pendants
Suspended pendant lighting over islands and above sinks provide both task lighting and eye-catching style. Go for an updated spin on a classic pendant design.
Under Cabinet Lights
Discreet under cabinet lighting illuminates the counters and creates a soft glow throughout the kitchen. This hidden light source avoids an overly modern look.
Natural Light
If possible, include windows, skylights or French doors to allow abundant natural light to filter into the transitional kitchen. This creates an airy yet cozy ambiance.
Mixture of Lighting
Incorporate several different lighting elements such as recessed ceiling lights, track lighting and chandeliers along with under cabinet and pendant lighting. Diversity of lighting is key.
Dimmer Switches
Install dimmer switches to easily control the mood lighting. Softer light suits a transitional kitchen versus harsh, overly bright lighting.
Flooring
The flooring choice impacts the room’s comfort and flows. Smart options for transitional kitchen flooring include:
Engineered Hardwood
This adaptable and durable hardwood withstands moisture better than solid hardwood. The clean look complements transitional style, especially in natural oak tones.
Wood-look Tile
Tile that mimics real hardwood brings the warmth of wood with added resilience. The large tile sizes enhance the feeling of openness.
Luxury Vinyl Tile
Vinyl tile now comes in extremely realistic wood and stone patterns but at a lower cost. Brands like Coretec provide the beauty without the big price tag.
Concrete
Polished concrete floors flaunt a contemporary feel but also complement adjacent living spaces nicely. The grayish tone pairs well with many color schemes.
Stone
Natural stone like slate, travertine or marble establishes an Old-World traditional look that works beautifully in a transitional setting when done in a neutral color.
Appliances and Hardware
The appliances and hardware finishes really refine that blend of old and new. Strategies include:
Stainless Steel Appliances
Incorporate stainless kitchen appliances to bring in that sleek, modern element. Yet soften the industrial edge by adding warmth through cabinetry and lighting elements.
Matte Black Fixtures
Matte black rather than shiny black hardware and fixtures keep the look refined. Matte black pairs nicely with copper or brass accents as well.
Brushed Metals
Opt for fixtures, sinks, lighting and hardware in brushed nickel, bronze, brass, copper or chrome rather than shiny finishes. The subtly weathered look is perfect for transitional spaces.
Vintage-Inspired Appliances
Choose appliances like a farmhouse sink, commercial-style range, or retro fridge to add just a touch of traditional flair. Don’t overdo it.
Smart Technology
Include up-to-date appliances and features like voice-activated faucets, smart lighting, or fingerprint scanner drawers. Seamlessly incorporate both old and new technology.
Decor and Furnishings
Even small decor choices make a difference in completing the transitional style. Focus on these tips:
Textural Interest
Incorporate textiles like pillows, rugs, drapes and chair fabrics with interesting textures and patterns. Communicate warmth amidst the sleek surfaces.
Meaningful Accessories
Display a few selected cherished items, handmade pottery or glassware. Avoid clutter and only showcase pieces with sentimental meaning.
Fresh Greenery
Plants, fresh flowers and garden greens liven up the transitional kitchen. A touch of nature balances the tailored features.
Artful Accents
Include art, sculptural pieces, or stacked books to inject the space with personality. Seek unique items that speak to personal taste.
Comfortable Seating
In open kitchens, incorporate seating like barstools to create an inviting, casual dining area for family and guests. Upholstered seats add comfort.
Bringing It All Together
When bringing all these elements together, aim to blend favorite pieces from the past with fresher, contemporary finishes. Seek balance in combining different textures, tones and materials for an eclectic, curated look. Take inspiration from your existing architecture then layer in new exciting touches. Focus on quality artisan craftsmanship for longer-lasting style. Most importantly, infuse the kitchen with pieces that hold personal significance and make the heart smile. With these guiding principles, your remodeled kitchen will exude transitional style and timeless appeal for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Transitional Kitchens
Here are answers to some common questions about achieving a transitional kitchen design:
What are the key differences between traditional and contemporary kitchen styles?
Traditional kitchens embrace ornate details, dark woods, and a more compartmentalized layout while contemporary kitchens are very sleek, minimalist and open. Transitional kitchens skillfully blend favorite elements from both approaches.
How much does a transitional kitchen remodel typically cost?
The cost depends on size and customization but plan for $20,000 to $50,000 on average. Focus the budget on statement-making changes like cabinetry, countertops, and backsplash.
What are some tips for giving a kitchen island a transitional look?
Incorporate features like a waterfall edge, contrasting countertop materials, mixed color cabinets, pronounced molding and pendant lighting. Include seating for an inviting, multi-purpose island.
How do I transition my all-white kitchen into something warmer and more stylish?
Paint the upper cabinets a soft tone like light blue-gray for contrast. Add wood elements like open shelving, butcher block counters or hardwood flooring for organic texture. Incorporate black or bronze hardware and lighting fixtures for an updated look.
Should I install a backsplash in my transitional kitchen remodel?
Absolutely. The backsplash presents a prime opportunity to establish the blend of traditional and contemporary through materials like marble, glass, mosaic tiles or subway tiles.
What cabinet colors work well in a transitional kitchen?
Softer neutral tones like warm grays, light taupes, creamy whites and soft blues suit transitional spaces. Avoid stark black and white or very bold colors.
How do I refinish my existing cabinets on a budget?
Consider having cabinets professionally sprayed in a new soft gray or white color. Swap out existing knobs or pulls for updated black, brass or silver hardware. Add glass door inserts for a transitional touch.
What flooring options can give my kitchen a fresh transitional look?
Wood-look porcelain tile, engineered hardwoods, polished concrete, and luxury vinyl planks offer stylish and resilient options. Or refinish existing floors in a driftwood or whitewashed stain.
What backsplash tiles work in both traditional and contemporary kitchens?
Subway tiles, penny tiles, and Carrara marble suit transitional spaces well. Patterned encaustic cement tiles also straddle both worlds beautifully.
Conclusion
Creating a transitional kitchen requires thoughtful editing, blending favorite elements from traditional and contemporary kitchens into one cohesive look. Focus on the counters, cabinets, flooring and backsplash as key areas to guide the aesthetic. Incorporate sensual materials, a fluid layout, and personal touches. When done right, a transitional kitchen remodel results in a comfortable, timeless gathering space for family and friends to enjoy for years to come. With creativity and careful curating, you can skillfully strike that ideal balance between old and new.
Kitchen Workbook: 8 Elements of a Transitional Kitchen
A transitional kitchen blends elements of traditional and contemporary styles to create a space that feels fresh yet classic. When remodeling a transitional kitchen, focus on these 8 key elements:
Kitchen Layout
Aim for an open but organized layout. Strategies include:
- Combining open and closed storage
- Creating smooth visual flow
- Incorporating thoughtful transitions between rooms
- Adding storage solutions like pull-out drawers
- Using a movable island for flexibility
Countertops
Select countertop materials like quartz, concrete, butcher block or tile. Choose a depth and edge profile that complements the overall look.
Cabinets
Opt for a mix of cabinetry materials in neutral tones. Incorporate glass doors, clean lines and a balance of open and closed storage.
Backsplash
Use subway tiles, marble, or patterned tiles to integrate vintage flair. Textured, handmade tiles also add transitional charm.
Lighting
Incorporate pendants, under cabinet lights, natural light sources and a mix of fixture styles at different brightness levels.
Flooring
Choose engineered hardwood, wood-look tile, luxury vinyl or polished concrete. Stone in neutral hues also complements a transitional kitchen nicely.
Appliances/Hardware
Blend stainless steel appliances with vintage-inspired pieces. Select matte black or brushed metal hardware over shiny finishes.
Decor
Add textural interest through rugs, linens and greenery. Showcase meaningful accessories and art. Upholstered seating adds comfort.
Bringing It Together
Seek balance in combining different materials, textures and tones. Infuse the space with favorite cherished pieces and quality craftsmanship.
A successful transitional kitchen remodel harmoniously blends old and new elements for a timeless, tailored look. With careful editing and curating, you can create a warm, welcoming heart of the home.
FAQ About Transitional Kitchens
Here are answers to common questions about achieving a transitional kitchen design:
What are the key differences between traditional and contemporary kitchen styles?
Traditional kitchens embrace ornate details, dark woods, and compartmentalized layouts while contemporary kitchens are very sleek, minimalist and open. Transitional kitchens skillfully blend favorite elements from both approaches.
How much does a transitional kitchen remodel typically cost?
The cost depends on size and customization but plan for $20,000 to $50,000 on average. Focus the budget on statement-making changes like cabinetry, counters and backsplash.
What are some tips for giving a kitchen island a transitional look?
Incorporate features like a waterfall edge, contrasting countertop materials, mixed cabinet colors, pronounced molding and pendant lighting. Include seating for a multi-purpose island.
How do I transition my all-white kitchen into something warmer and more stylish?
Paint upper cabinets a soft tone like light blue-gray for contrast. Add wood elements and black or bronze hardware and lighting fixtures for an updated look.
Should I install a backsplash in my transitional kitchen remodel?
Absolutely. The backsplash is a prime spot to establish the blend of traditional and contemporary through materials like marble, glass, mosaic or subway tile.
What cabinet colors work well in a transitional kitchen?
Softer neutral tones like warm grays, light taupes, creamy whites and soft blues suit transitional spaces. Avoid stark black and white or bold colors.
What are some good flooring options for a transitional kitchen?
Wood-look porcelain tile, engineered hardwood, polished concrete, and luxury vinyl planks offer stylish, resilient options. Refinishing existing floors can also freshen up the look.
What backsplash tiles work in both traditional and contemporary kitchens?
Subway tiles, penny tiles, Carrara marble, and patterned encaustic cement tiles straddle both worlds beautifully.
Conclusion
Creating a successful transitional kitchen requires thoughtfully blending favorite elements from traditional and contemporary approaches. Focus on key areas like cabinetry, counters, flooring and backsplash to guide the aesthetic. Seek balance in combining materials, textures and tones for a tailored, timeless look. With careful curating, you can design a warm, welcoming kitchen for years of cherished memories.
