These bright, no-fuss transitional kitchen designs are the perfect mix of classic meets contemporary.
Transitional kitchens, which blend contemporary andtraditional styles, are bright, relaxed, and often loaded with storage.
“Transitional-style kitchens display an airy and casual elegance that draws you in,” saysAtlanta-based interior designerLoretta Willis.
Credit: Anthony Masterson
Another reason for its popularity?
According to the NKBA, white transitional kitchens are most popular, followed byneutral colors like graysand beiges.
Wood tones are a staple, too.
Credit: Caren Alpert
Looking for something a little more vibrant?
Blues are the most common non-neutral in transitional kitchens and one of themost popular colors in home design.
A thick countertop profile and waterfall countertops on an island are also commonly used.
Credit: Jay Wilde
Let the following transitional kitchens and elements inspire your own remodel.
Transitional Kitchen Lighting
Pendant lightingis the most noteworthy decor element in transitional kitchens.
The dark, slim lines of theopen shelvingmimic the delicate cages of the classic lantern pendants above the island.
Credit: Stacy Zarin Goldberg
Geometric Design
Geometric tiles are a contemporary idea that mimics the overall crisp lines of transitional style.
If used in small doses, dark grout lines add interest without becoming too busy.
Plank Flooring
Plank-style flooring is also common in transitional kitchens, specifically wood and wood-look flooring.
Credit: Jeff Herr
Dark or light, the rich hues bring traditional warmth to the space.
Wood flooring warms theearthy green cabinet color.
Willis suggests turning to transitional kitchen floors for a little touch of personal style.
Credit: Paul Dyer
Paneled appliances are integrated into the cabinetry for an uncluttered perimeter.
A colorfulpatterned backsplashworks because it’s limited to the range area.
Their deep black is balanced by dark cabinet hardware, windows, and wood ceiling beams.
Dramaticallythick marble countertopstie the room together.
Emphasize Natural Light
Commonly outfitted with neutral cabinetry, transitional kitchens capitalize on natural light.
This space takes it a step further by reflecting light withwhite ceramic tileson the walls and range hood.
Bringing the cabinetry and wall treatments up to the ceiling creates a crisp kitchen profile.
Transitional Details
Other prominent design features of transitional kitchens includeapron-front sinksand abundant cabinetry drawer storage.
Waterfall Countertops
Leaning contemporary,waterfall countertopsare an elegant feature often used in transitional kitchens.