In short, Transitional design is the mixing of Contemporary and Traditional styles. It is so popular, well-liked and versatile that it should be called "The New Traditional"...but it hasn't caught on yet- so for now, its called Transitional. (I am giong through this blog as of late 2011 and Im happy to report it is now called "New Traditional"! haha!).
"Contemporary" design (also mistakenly called Modern- but that's an issue for another week!) uses soft, neutral color palettes with lots of texture, simple decor and architectural character, clean lines, very light or very dark wood tones, metal accents, open plans and simplicity. Overall, the tone of Contemporary design is peaceful, calming and elegant in an unstuffy way.
Traditional "Traditional" design utilizes a richer color palette, medium to dark wood tones, a lot of architectural character (think mouldings, wainscoting, beadboard), quality woodworking and antiques, lots of detail in decorative accents, and a more compartmentalized plan (think different rooms for every activity). Overall, the tone of Traditional design is rich, warm and echoes history.
"Transitional" combines the best of both worlds- the calming and clean aspects of Contemporary with the warm and very tailored look of Traditional. When I design a Transitional interior, I like the bones of the space to be more traditional, and the decor and furnishings more Contemporary. Taking color and style direction into consideration, this is usually a good balance of the two. Mixing these two styles creates a backdrop that is both casual and formal. To me, Transitional design is a very American look. After all, the concept of casual elegance was, indeed, born by Americans.
Examples of Transitional interiors from my personal architectural photo library (note- the name of the designers for these rooms are unbeknownst to be, otherwise, their names would be credited!):
The paneling and wood plank floors are traditional. The soft color palette, uncluttered walls, and very dark wood tones juxtaposed with the glossy white paneling are Contemporary. To make this space even more Transitional, a pair of coordinating but non-matching side tables or lamps could be used.
The Kelley green and mouldings & picture rail in this dining room are Traditional. The shape of the furniture, simple drapery panels, and choice of lighting fixture (rather than a traditional crystal chandelier) are Contemporary. Also, the lines of the fireplace and the mirror and artwork leaning against the wall is also a contemporary decor element.
The symmetry and mouldings are Traditional. The lines of the furniture, the soothing color palette, straight drapery panels, simple mantle and the use of the stone (both in the quantity used and in the size of each piece) are Contemporary.
