Understanding transitional kitchens
TRANSITIONAL is the most popular kitchen design. In fact, 65 percent of kitchens designed (in the US) in the 2019 were transitional, more than double the kitchens that were traditional, contemporary or farmhouse.
Why are transitional kitchens so popular? And, perhaps more importantly, would this style fit your design aesthetic?
These are some of the features that define a transitional kitchen:
Clean and relaxed
“Transitional design offers the best of both worlds, blending the textures of traditional with the sleekness of contemporary design,” says John Starck, CEO and owner of New York-based Showcase Kitchens.
“For kitchens, think geometric, clean and practical lines for the countertops, cabinetry, crown moulding and other crafted elements.”
It is believed that non-fussy is a key element of transitional kitchens.
Colours
Since transitional kitchens often open to the living area, designers are opting for smooth features that blend in.
What is more, they often aim to achieve a light and airy effect.
Designers usually use clean colours such as whites, grays, beiges, bones and blues.
Cabinets
In transitional kitchens, cabinets are usually a light or medium colour in painted wood, wood grain or mixed materials.
Designers often prefer integrated storage with recessed panels, and doors are not as prevalent as drawers.
Matte decorative hardware or integrated hardware are also traits of this design style.
Appliances
“White kitchens with stainless steel appliances are still king — with frequently contrasting island and perimeter cabinetry,”
explains Starck.
Also, expect to find fully-integrated French-door refrigerators in transitional kitchens.
They will either be an induction cooktop along with a wall oven and microwave, or a dual-fuel or gas range. Updraft hoods and standard-door dishwashers are other staples in this design.
Countertops and backsplashes
“Marble countertops and even marble backsplashes work beautifully for transitional kitchens,” Starck says. Other popular features that define transitional kitchens include quartz and quartzite.
“Subway tile for backsplashes is still a favourite, but mosaics and glass tile in a variety of sizes work great, too,” Starck explains.
Sinks and faucets
Popular sinks styles among designers include stainless steel single bowl or apron sinks.
Among faucets, brushed stainless steel finishes reign; matte, polished or satin finishes are also popular.
However, there is no preference regarding faucet functionality.
Designers are selecting faucets that are motion-controlled, touch or even manual.
Flooring and lighting
“The flooring can be either tile or wood, typically high gloss, but it doesn’t have to be,” says Starck. Designers are using both hardwood and engineered wood plank, continuing the debate on using hardwood floors in kitchens and bathrooms.
The various types of large-format tile used in transitional kitchens include ceramic, porcelain and stone.
Some designers are also using luxury vinyl.
Designers are incorporating a variety of lighting options in transitional kitchens.
This includes recessed lights and pendants and dimmer and traditional switches.
Undercabinet lighting and interior cabinet lighting are also features of this kitchen style. And designers are more frequently adding motion sensors and keypads.
Contemporary, mid-century modern, industrial, glam and even traditional elements can blend successfully into a transitional kitchen. — freshome