Who says you have to choose one decorating style and be totally true to it? Perhaps flirting with a couple of styles is exactly what your home needs to maximize its form, function and fabulousness! For those of you who are “a little of this, a little of that”, the transitional decorating style is perfect. Transitional style combines the classic beauty of traditional décor with the clean, simple lines of the contemporary look. It’s really a win-win, no compromise alternative!
Getting It Right
Even though the transitional style is less rigid than most, there are definite guidelines to follow. Done incorrectly, a transitional home can look a little thrown together. Done right, it’s a masterpiece of synchronicity.
Rhapsody by Hooker Furniture
Here are a few ideas to help create your transitional dream home:
The background is neutral. Start with walls in a neutral taupe, grey or soft cream, maybe a brown. It should be muted. Wallpaper and prints just won’t work. Flooring should be equally simple. I love wood floors for this style (okay, for every style!), but if you don’t have hardwood, keep the carpet neutral as well.
Add rugs. Rugs provide the opportunity for a pop of interest. Choose something bold or graphic to stand out against your neutral palette.
Caracole by Schnadig
The foundation is contemporary. The bulk of your furnishings should be contemporary. Add a couple of pieces of traditional furniture to blend the look. Nothing slouchy or too cushiony – perhaps a traditional leather accent chair and ottoman with a more contemporary sofa. Bring them together with pillows of the same fabric.
Annie by Schnadig
Blend your furniture choices. In a transitional room, straight lines and curves combine. It’s masculine and feminine; the look should say comfortable and sophisticated. The scale of the pieces should be generous but not overwhelming. And we’ll say it again, keep it simple!
Modern Heritage by HGTV HOME
Be daring with lighting. Here’s where contrast can work for you. Pair halogen desk lamps with soft lamps with white shades – and add a chandelier to the mix. There is always room to surprise and delight.
Bye bye odds and ends. Clutter is a huge no-no in transitional style. Keep it out of sight. That means remotes, toys, kitchen trinkets, etc. Did I mention you’ll need lots of storage to keep your transitional home looking tidy?
Primrose Hill by Hooker Furniture
Credenza in the hallway. See the point above! Order starts at the front door. And while many people have a hall table, why not make it a sleek, gorgeous credenza with drawers and cupboards? Open the drawer and tuck away keys and gloves and everything else!
How to accessorize. Think big and think simple. A large potted plant. A metal sculpture. A grouping of pewter candles on a wooden tray. You want to add interest without getting crowded or cutesy.
Ashby Park by American Drew
Artwork. In keeping with the muted background, you want to keep artwork sophisticated. No fancy frames or fussy pictures. How about black and white photos with cream mattes and black frames? Mirrors are perfect too – again, keeping the frame basic. I have a wide, oblong mirror hung over my dining room table. It’s framed in black. It cost a fraction of the price of art, but opens the room up beautifully and makes a great impact. Of course, if you have it, a gorgeous piece of modern art always looks perfect!
Textures take the stage. When the style and colour is understated, texture takes a starring role. Suede, leather, corduroy, chenille and wicker all work well in a transitional room. Again, make sure that the style of the piece is clean and sophisticated to bring the texture to life.
Wonderful post! Thank you for sharing!