Transitional Kitchen Design Blends the Old and the New

Transitional kitchen design blends modern innovation with traditional design. It’s the ideal solution for homeowners who like a mixture of styles and don’t want to be limited by one strictly defined design. This type of eclectic kitchen is inviting and understated, combining the warmth of the traditional kitchen with the sleek look of the contemporary kitchen, and can fit any style of home. You are completely free to choose from a wide variety of natural and man-made materials and decor. Learn more in this video:

Transitional kitchen design is characterized by an underlying crisp clean traditional style without busy patterns or ornate decoration that is combined with contemporary appliances, textures, colors and materials. You can break away from the rules and be innovative and even add some playfulness to your kitchen.

Flooring

Linoleum is an economical material made from natural products that comes in both individual tiles and sheets. An old favorite, it is perfect for a transitional kitchen. Today’s linoleum is more attractive and durable and comes in a wide variety of colors. Vinyl flooring is similar to linoleum but is manufactured from man-made materials. Vinyl tile can be mixed and matched to create designs or patterns. Ceramic tile is more expensive than linoleum or vinyl but tends to last much longer. Available in a wide variety of colors and styles, ceramic tile is waterproof and easy to clean. A newer option is decorative concrete which can be stained or engraved.

Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands are an increasingly popular component of transitional kitchens. For small kitchens, consider a rolling cart that can be moved against a wall or stored in the pantry or a drop-leaf island. You can choose stainless steel to blend in with your stainless steel appliances, or you may want unfinished wood for a rustic look or finished wood for a polished look. Islands with drawers, racks and adjustable shelves provide additional storage space for small appliances, utensils and dishware. If you don’t want your stored items on display, select an island with doors.

Kitchen Countertops

While you may be thinking about traditional solid granite countertops, tile can broaden your design possibilities and is an affordable alternative. You can choose quartz or granite tile. A great way to introduce color is to mix and match ceramic or mosaic tiles in unique patterns and textures. Decorative concrete is another option.

Design Ideas

Ideas for transitional kitchen design are virtually unlimited. Here is just a sampling:

• Use modern finishes or materials on old cabinetry, furniture or sinks
• Install concrete or granite countertops in nontraditional colors
• Combine cabinet doors, brackets, corbels, hardware moldings, legs and doors from different eras
• Add a concrete or combination glass and stone mosaic tile backsplash
• Use a simple black-and-white scheme and add color accents
• Install a stainless steel faucet and sink and upgrade to stainless steel appliances and cabinet pulls
• Create a hidden office by retrofitting an existing cabinet
• Add a kitchen peninsula or island with benches or bar stools in coordinating colors
• Use chalkboard panels for the backsplash or refrigerator door