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Transitional kitchen design ideas


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(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

What are transitional kitchens ideas, you ask? The transitional kitchen is a unique blend of traditional and contemporary furniture, finishes, materials and fabric – all of which equate to a classic, timeless design. This hugely popular aesthetic is ideal for those of us who revere an enduring look – and those who want to remodel once, and once only.

Read on to discover how to emulate the coveted transitional kitchen style in your home – for an everlasting appearance you will love for years to come.

See: Kitchen ideas – decor and decorating ideas for all kitchens

Transitional kitchen ideas 

Here's how to create a transitional kitchen that you will love for years to come.

1. Adopt a neutral color scheme throughout 

(Image credit: Tiffany Leigh Design / Lauren Miller)

Kitchens are rife with color opportunities. Fresh neutral shades are a far cry from ‘boring beige’ and will bring a sophisticated, low-key look to a new kitchen. 

For many years we were in love with all shades of peach, cream and magnolia, and  those color choices bore the brunt of many a painter and decorators’ jokes. The tide  has turned now though, and those creamy neutrals have been brought up to date with a new, sophisticated grey and coffee palette. 

These neutrals, which encompass a million shades of grey, oyster, café au lait and green-greys, are easy on the eye and are a very good choice for home-owners who want gentle color, rather than strong shades and brave choices. 

See: Small kitchen ideas – designs for compact kitchens

2. Opt for simple, Shaker kitchen cabinets

(Image credit: Future / Paul Massey)

Simple yet striking, this look is timeless. So where does Shaker style come from? The routes of this popular design stem from the 18th-century US religious movement of the same name. They believed in simplicity and function without embellishment or decorative features, and they structured their homes as such. 

Today, these beginnings have been built on – and Shaker design does offer variety in terms of color and finishing touches but the basics have stayed the same – stick to these and you will achieve the look with ease. 

Wood is the dominant material in Shaker kitchens but be careful not to tip the scale to ‘vintage’ or ‘country’ style. Choose a simple design with square doors with an inset panel and, if you have it painted, go for a matte finish. Any furniture should follow these lines too – spindle-back wooden chairs and a simple square or round table are what you’re looking for.

3. Work with wood

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

Pick a timeless timber kitchen that’s effortlessly stylish and built to withstand everyday family life. After all, the true transitional kitchen is all about longevity.

Simple, classic yet with plenty of character, wooden kitchens never go out of style, making them a great investment for your home. While traditional designs might be just the ticket for a country kitchen, Shaker-style doors are the most versatile option and look as good with modern accessories as they do with retro pieces. Whether you opt for a natural timber finish or combine with color, most can be easily given a new lease of life with a thorough oiling, honeyed stain or a lick of paint when you fancy a change.

Help your budget to go a bit further with a blend of solid oak doors and simple pale gloss, combined with contrasting worktops and a mix of modern knobs and handles.

See: Modern kitchen ideas – contemporary designs for cooking and entertaining

4. Keep decoration to a minimum

(Image credit: Future/Davide Lovatti)

A classic or traditionally styled kitchen is almost the ‘default setting’ for many kitchen designers, and choosing a kitchen that is inspired by the proportions of classic  furniture designs is a solution that will work with most styles of architecture.  

If you prefer the softer, more friendly looks and feel of natural timber finishes and matt or satin paint colors, rather than harsh glossy lacquers, a transitional kitchen will fit  the bill. 

Doors and drawers are generally panelled, and the mix of real wood with painted finishes work beautifully to re-create the look of a real old-fashioned, classic kitchen. Keep decoration and extravagant details to a minimum – and opt for clean, practical lines that put focus on functionality over style. 

See: Traditional kitchen ideas – classic looks for cabinets, countertops and more

5. Choose a practical lighting scheme

(Image credit: Future/Mark Bolton)

The kitchen’s primary function may still be cooking, but it increasingly serves as one  of the main entertaining spaces in the home. The right lighting can deliver several  levels of brightness, make a space feel larger and dramatically alter the mood and  feel of a room. But where lighting has become somewhat fussy and unconventional in the latest contemporary schemes – the transitional kitchen style is all about harking back to what we know works best.

A good kitchen lighting system in a transitional kitchens needs at least two elements: bright, shadow-free, task light for safe cooking and preparation, and atmospheric illumination to create mood, highlight architectural features and make the room feel homely. 

‘Look at the areas of your kitchen and think about the activities that will happen in each space,’ advises interior designer, Sarah Ward. ‘Some spaces, such as food  preparation zones, the kitchen sink and above the hob, will require task lighting,  while others, such as the dining area, call for mood and accent lighting.'

A series of beautiful pendant lights or a fabulous single statement piece above a  dining table will help differentiate the dining space from the kitchen’s work zones. Styles range from old-school, industrial shapes in shiny, on-trend copper to striking  ceramics in translucent hues. ‘Hang pendants low over the table for a feeling of  intimacy,’ advises Peter Bowles, managing director of Original BTC and Davey  Lighting. 

6. Take it to the floor – with planks

(Image credit: Future / Matthew Williams)

The floor of your kitchen is likely to be one of the largest surface areas in the room, so its selection deserves careful thought. It needs to perform on many levels – durability, safety and ease of cleaning – and it must look great, too, so give it as much consideration as your cabinetry.

Wood remains an enduring choice for interiors and is the ideal flooring to bring  warmth and character to the kitchen. Solid wood looks beautiful and is wonderfully versatile – rustic or reclaimed boards look fabulous in a transitional kitchen. With regular correct maintenance, it’s a floor that will last for years. 

If budget constraints exists, laminate flooring is a great alternative. Supplied in planks that fit together for easy installation, laminate is a good-looking alternative to wood if you’re on a budget. Make sure you choose a laminate that is suitable for kitchen use as some are not suitable in damp environments. 

See: Country kitchen ideas – get the rustic look with our ultimate inspiration gallery

7. Invest in a quartz (or marble) work surface

(Image credit: Future)

Practical, durable and stylish, quartz is a strong contender if you’re seeking a low-stress countertop. Quartz is considered more durable, heat resistant and easier to maintain than natural stone. The surface never needs to be resealed, and it won’t chip or stain easily. It is also completely non-porous, making it a hygienic choice, and some manufacturers offer an antibacterial surface treatment.

One of the main benefits of quartz is that it comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Unlike natural stone, you can also be sure that what you see in the showroom is exactly what you’ll get.

See: Kitchen countertop ideas – worktop inspiration in marble, granite and composite materials

8.

Maximize natural light in a transitional kitchen

(Image credit: Amy Bartlam)

Light is a precious commodity when it comes to creating a comfortable kitchen. A well-lit kitchen negates the need for excessive artificial lighting, while adding to a  sense of well-being. But if your kitchen isn’t naturally filled with light, there are still plenty of ways to harness its effects.

Windows are often the stars of the show in a transitional kitchen, and many of them  are unadorned. If your windows need attention, consider employing a professional to restore or replace them. Dated uPVC windows can be replaced with a more sympathetic style, or try restoring original period windows to their former glory with the help of specialists. Where privacy is not an issue, leave them without any  dressing at all. 

Alternatively, simple wooden flooring, or a natural stone such as travertine for kitchens will immediately lift a scheme, as do natural weaves like light hessian and sisal. Try painting kitchen walls in whites or off-whites, while combining textures such as linen, hessian, cotton and velvet in soft furnishings will add brightness and depth.

9. Introduce texture underfoot with a runner

(Image credit: Rikki Snyder)

Accessorize and liven up your space by making a statement underfoot. Usually sited in halls – or, on the stairs – runners have since made their way into a transitional kitchen.

A statement rug has to have presence, whether it adds a jolt of color, an eye-catching pattern or interesting texture, it should stand out against the other elements in the room.

10. Embrace the resurgence of brass

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

Take OTT opulence down a notch with raw finishes for a low-key, rustic-luxe look.

Shining brightly, the resurgence of brass in design has been a growing trend in recent times. With warm, tactile qualities, this gleaming metallic lends a polished edge to any interior. It pays to invest in things you touch every day, like door knobs and light switches – if they feel cheap, it can spoil the whole experience.

What does a transitional kitchen look like?

(Image credit: Roundhouse/Mary Wadsworth Photography)

Popular and versatile, transitional kitchens are a design classic. The most popular colors tend to be white and cream, but coming up fast on the outside are the new neutrals. Shades of soft greys, warm stone and pale blues are increasing as people become a little braver with their color choices. Great on their own, these colors also work in conjunction with a bold hit of color, ochre, for an island for instance, or dark graphite on an appliance bank. 

One of the best reasons to choose a neutral scheme is that it is easier to live with and usually less likely to feel dated than colors that are bolder. It also works well with most work surfaces and flooring, so it’s easy to update if your tastes change.

When it comes to choosing surfaces, think in tones. If you’ve chosen a darker grey color for cabinetry, you’ll find it will work well when partnered with crisp whites to add definition – paler minks and cashmeres work well with natural stone colors. 

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

A Mix of Elements: The Transitional Kitchen Style

A transitional kitchen style is for homeowners that want to blend both a traditional and contemporary look. The design, colors, and textures are combined together to create a cohesive style that is warm yet modern. Because this style is a mix of elements, no two transitional kitchens are exactly the same. However, there are some common features that are found in transitional kitchens.

Table of Contents

What is Transitional Kitchen Style?photo: Sebring Design Build

A transitional kitchen style blends some elements from traditional kitchens and some elements from modern ones. The blend is not necessarily split evenly, as more of one style might be present than the other, depending on the homeowner’s preferences. Transitional kitchens often have a blend of organic and man-made materials. They are bright, relaxed, and have a lot of storage.

One of the most appealing aspects of a transitional kitchen for homeowners is that they can be as creative as they like to get the exact kitchen they want without having to conform to one specific style. Some homeowners like to include a touch of decorative ornamentation that adds extra elegance, but it is a small amount. Others might go more towards the contemporary style and no decorative accents.

Loretta Willis, an interior designer based in Atlanta says that “Transitional-style kitchens display an airy and casual elegance that draws you in. Its clean architectural lines and often neutral finishes speak to an ageless and classic style that borrows the best of traditional and contemporary design.”  Since this style draws from surrounding spaces, it is particularly effective for houses that have a large or open layout. 

Transitional design does not have ornate cabinetry, corbels, or crown molding. The design aims to stay simple, with the goal of creating a light and open area, without being bogged down by details.

Transitional kitchens are very popular with homeowners. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, design preferences in kitchens will continue to be contemporary and transitional in 2021, with additional influence from natural and organic elements. Homeowners that want flexibility in design are gravitating towards transitional kitchen styles.   And those that are looking to renovate to sell find that transitional kitchens appeal to a large range of buyers.

Elements of a Transitional Kitchenphoto: Design Line Kitchens

The elements of the transitional kitchen style include geometric, clean, and practical lines throughout the space, including cabinets and crown molding. Traditional light fixtures on the ceiling of above the countertops. It usually uses a combination of natural and man-made materials with neutral colors. Homeowners that are looking to create a transitional kitchen should focus on the following:

Cabinetsphoto: Design Line Kitchens

Transitional kitchen cabinets always have a streamlined profile. They often are made of wood rather than the lacquer that can be found in modern kitchens. The cabinets have recessed or paneled style doors and naturally blend in with the rest of the kitchen’s style.

Shaker cabinets are the go-to option for transitional kitchens.   With their clean lines and paneled doors, they are the perfect backdrop for an uncluttered look. They also allow the homeowner to be creative elsewhere within the space. With the right hardware and wood color, Shaker cabinets can lean either more contemporary or traditional. 

The cabinetry does need to be all-white but should be in a neutral tone such as beige, light grey, cream, or even blue. The neutral palette of the cabinets allows for the kitchen to be bright and airy. No matter the color, a transitional kitchen has plenty of storage. This keeps kitchen items and small appliances off of the counters, so the space remains free of clutter. 

Kitchen Islandphoto: Designing Idea

Because they have an open concept, many transitional kitchens have a center island. One of the more recent kitchen trends is choosing a different color for the island than the cabinets.  For example, white perimeter cabinets with a contrasting or complementary island in a different color like gray or dark blue. A multi-tiered island is also seen in transitional kitchens, as are those that provide a lot of storage.

The island works seamlessly with the design and allows ease of movement within the space.  An L-shaped kitchen with an island, for example, allows for an eat-in area or casual breakfast nook. An upcoming trend in larger kitchens is creating two kitchen islands—one for prep and one for a sitting area.  Another trend is larger islands, of at least 24 square feet which can serve as both prep and sitting areas.

Hardwarephoto: Synergy Design & Construction

Hardware in a transitional kitchen is often more contemporary. Tubular bar pulls, sometimes called barrel pulls, available in many sizes and finishes which can add some modern to a more traditional cabinet style. Long silver rods with chrome bands, for example, creates a transitional look. 

Transitional kitchens commonly use a mixture of wood and metal. Silver rectangular handles against a dark wood Shaker cabinet will give a modern feel, but with a traditional element by incorporating the silver.   More modern transitional kitchens include black and brass accents. Homeowners have many choices when it comes to hardware.

Tilephoto: Sollera Fine Cabinetry

Tile can also be used in a transitional kitchen style, either on the wall or on the floor. Most tiles are not categorized as transitional on their own but can be used to accentuate a transitional style. Traditional tiles such as mosaics or marble can be mixed with contemporary ones, like large tiles. While traditional tiles can be incorporated, but the tile pattern can represent a transitional style, such as stacking them horizontally or vertically.

The color scheme does not all need to fit the neutral palette. Some homeowners use tile to create a statement backsplash behind the stove and use other simple tile, such as subway tile, for the rest of the backsplash. The tilework in a transitional kitchen is never busy. 

Backsplashphoto: KraftMaid

Backsplash adds color and texture to the space. This is where accent colors are most often used in transitional kitchens. With a neutral color palette and cabinets, the backsplash can be as bold and colorful as the homeowner wants.  For example, a mosaic grid tile comes in many colors and textures. 

Sometimes the backsplash is a continuation of the countertops, such as a marble countertop that continues up onto the wall. Or the backsplash might keep with the neutral palette of the kitchen. For example, herringbone is classic pattern that is used often.

Countertopsphoto: Studio 76 Kitchens & Bath

Marble, limestone, granite, and quartz are often seen in a transitional kitchen. Materials are made of natural surfaces and have clean lines. There are no edge treatments or ornate decorations on the countertops.

The countertop choice is versatile, depending on the homeowner’s preferences, although quartz has become one of the most popular picks.  A thick countertop profile and waterfall countertops on an island are also often seen with this style.

Lightingphoto: Synergy Design & Construction

Options are endless for lighting with the transitional kitchen style. One option is recessed lighting, which is often seen in traditional kitchens. It can be used alone or with another lighting source.

Pendant lighting is the one of the most noteworthy design elements in this type of kitchen.  Some are oversized and slightly industrial and lean more towards modern, but traditional pendant lights work well too. Metallic pendant lamps in classic silhouettes blend both traditional and contemporary styles.

Color Palettephoto: Showplace Cabinetry

The color scheme should be kept simple, and it does not have many patterns. Neutral colors are used on the walls, countertops, and cabinets. Gray and beige walls paired with wood tones fit the transitional color palette. Homeowners looking for something with a little more pop are turning to shades of blue, which is on-trend.

Because the color scheme is neutral, transitional kitchens add textural elements in other areas of the kitchen, such as the backsplash.

Storagephoto: Winthorpe Design & Build

Accessible storage is important in every kitchen and transitional kitchens always include a lot of storage so that the space remains clutter-free. Much of the impact then, comes from the cabinetry. Cabinets can be customized to create additional storage have the countertops remain clear. A large, tall pantry cabinet can take the place of a stand-alone pantry. Smaller kitchens will benefit from utilizing vertical storage as well. 

With more people spending time at home, appliances like the refrigerator and freezer will also have more storage options.  Since the freezer is one of the best places to store food long-term, homeowners are looking to replace current refrigerators with larger options.

Flooringphoto: Laurysen Kitchens

There is no set standard for flooring when it comes to transitional kitchens. Plank flooring is the preferred default option. The materials for the floor are either wood or a material that looks like wood. The flooring can be dark or light. The richness of certain floor tones will bring a traditional touch to the space.

Some homeowners are still opting for tiles, either ceramic, porcelain, or stone. The individual tiles should be large, because smaller square floor tile will date the kitchen.

Appliancesphoto: Showplace Cabinetry

Appliances have a visual effect because other elements are kept simple.  Many times, stainless steel is the finish of choice, but paneling is a nod to the traditional elements of this style. Appliances are leaning toward innovative, and energy-efficient designs.  Range hoods are usually built-in and do not take away from the design of the room.

Sinkphoto: WF Cabinetry

An apron-front sink is a prominent feature of a transitional kitchen. This sink style is versatile and found in many different types of kitchens. A second sink might also be located in the kitchen island. This sink might be used as a prep sink so that the island becomes a workspace. They look good on any type of countertop—quartz, granite, or even wood.

The transitional kitchen style allows the homeowner to mix different elements from several styles to create one that fits their needs. It gives flexibility that appeals to many homeowners. The neutral and clean-lined cabinets are the starting point for creating this design.

Kitchen transition - living room transition kitchen, corridor - PHOTOS, best ideas

Photo Source: Shutterstock

Transitional or transitional and temporary style is the most popular kitchen design at the moment. 65% of kitchens designed last year were transitional, more than double the number of traditional kitchens.

Photo Source: Moen

More importantly, will this style suit your home's aesthetic? Transitional kitchens feature a clean, light and airy design. And also a style that can be safely called “temporary”.

Clean and relaxed

Transitional design offers the best of both worlds, combining traditional textures with a clean, minimalist modern design. For such kitchens, geometric, clean and practical lines were invented - for countertops, cabinets, aprons and other elements.

Photo credit: Breadmaker/Shutterstock

Unpretentiousness is a key element of transitional kitchens. Such kitchens would never include decorative appliqués or other highly decorative elements typical of traditional kitchens.

Photo Source: Showcase Kitchens

Read also: 8 Tips for Organizing and Furnishing a Functional Kitchen

Colors

. Moreover, they often aim to bring a light and airy effect.

Photo source: www.elkay.com/

Basically, it is about using solid colors such as white, grey, beige, ivory and blue. This is a good choice at the moment and when homeowners decide to sell a property, neutral colors attract buyers.

Photo Source: Shutterstock

See also: Tips for choosing a kitchen color

In transitional kitchens, cabinets are usually painted a light color, mostly wood, wood grains or mixed materials. Designers use built-in storage with recessed panels, and doors aren't as popular as drawers. Matte decorative elements or built-in elements are also features of this design style.

Photo Source: Showcase Kitchens

White kitchens with stainless steel appliances are still king with often contrasting island and perimeter cabinets. Also, expect to find fully integrated French door refrigerators in transitional kitchens. The designers plan that there will be either an induction hob with wall-mounted oven and microwave, or a gas stove. Modular hoods and dishwashers with standard doors are other highlights of this design.

Photo source: decoratrend.com/2019/05/30/54-beautiful-kitchen-design-ideas/

Read also: Kitchen color ideas: 8 original examples suitable for transitional kitchens. Other popular features that define transitional kitchens include faux stone and quartzite.

Photo credit: Breadmaker/Shutterstock

Floors and lighting

The flooring is both tile and wood, usually high gloss but not required. Designers are using hardwood and engineered wood planks, continuing the debate about using parquet floors in kitchens and bathrooms. The different types of large format tiles used in transitional kitchens include ceramic, porcelain, and stone. Some designers also use luxury vinyl.

Photo source: decoratrend.com/2019/05/30/54-beautiful-kitchen-design-ideas/

Designers include various lighting options in transitional kitchens. It includes recessed fixtures, pendants, dimmers and traditional switches. Under cabinet lighting and interior cabinet lighting are also features of this kitchen style. And designers are increasingly adding motion sensors to the kitchen.

Photo source: decoratrend.com/2019/05/30/54-beautiful-kitchen-design-ideas/

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Kitchen design ideas on the border of styles

Transitional style is an opportunity for big changes. With the warmth and invitingness of traditional design and the clean, simple lines of contemporary style, the transitional space strikes balance and harmony. Since this design offers a lot of flexibility, it's a great choice for homeowners who don't want to be limited to just one style. Dear users, for you these photos with ideas of transitional kitchens.

1. Clear furniture

Cabinets in transitional kitchens usually have a less streamlined profile than modern style. As a rule, they are made of wood, not modern materials, and have smooth fittings.

2. Natural Stone Surfaces

Granite, marble, limestone and other natural kitchen countertops and flooring materials are versatile enough to fit into any traditional or modern interior. Therefore, they are ideal for a transitional style kitchen. Just avoid complicated edging and other lush finishes that will look too rich.

3. Modernized tiles

Transitional kitchens often use traditional materials for finishing work in a new way. For example, the tiles in this photo are laid in a grid rather than the more familiar classic brick pattern.

4. Simple accents

Transitional decor elements should be kept to a minimum. In the photo, attention is drawn to a small collection of ceramics and a flower arrangement. Avoid fuss and clutter, use simple and graphic forms.

5. Natural materials meets artificial

A stainless steel exhaust hood glistens next to the wood kitchen furniture and marble countertops in this space. The blending of natural and man-made is the cornerstone of transitional design.

6. Neutral colors

Transitional style rarely has a bright, energetic interior color scheme. Instead, a layering of neutral clean and monochrome, but still warm, effects is used.

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