N’ Style Designs on Transitional Design

Every designer has a particular “style” they resonate with… mine is Transitional with a Coastal flare.  In my designs I like to have a balance of casual and elegance. This tend to give it a more sophisticated look, which may be different than the usual “coastal design.”

TRANSITIONAL DESIGN

Let me explain my philosophy on how I design, because I think people tend to think of Coastal Design as being more of a shabby chic or coastal cottage. Transitional design is  about combining all different types of textures, elements and furniture. For example, combining traditional and contemporary furnishings create a more tailored, yet relaxed atmosphere. I love to bring natural elements into my designs through furniture, fabrics, lighting, architectural finishes and accessories. Some of these elements may include stone or wood finishes, textured and woven pieces, or simply coral and shells. My take on coastal is about enjoying the calmness and beauty of the water, beach and all of its natural scenery .  When all of these elements are put together, your home should feel warm and inviting, so you want to relax and unwind at the end of the day. I believe your home is not just a place, but a feeling.

To see more or to GET INSPIRED with more Transitional Design ideas on our Pinterest & Instagram

photo via National Builder Supply Company copyrightl

Transitional Style – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Transitional Style (also known as “updated classic”, “classic with a contemporary twist”, “new takes on old classics”) in interior design and furniture design refers to a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, midway between old world traditional and the world of chrome and glass contemporary; incorporating lines that are less ornate than traditional designs, but not as severely basic as contemporary lines. As a result transitional furniture designs are classic, timeless, and clean.

Curves combine with straight lines in a transitional style interior to deliver a look that balances both masculine and feminine attributes for a comfortable and relaxing, uncomplicated design. A lack of ornamentation and decoration with minimal accessories keeps the focus on the simplicity and sophistication of the design.[1] Color palettes are typically neutral and subtle and may be monochromatic, with color in art and accents, not upholstery and floors.[2]

Unlike contemporary furniture, transitional style focuses on comfort and practicality to meet the lifestyle of an active household. The scales of furniture pieces are ample but not overwhelming. Goose feather and down fill is typically used for upholstered furniture, wood species (maple, mahogany, walnut, etc.) and wood finishing is typically warm tones but can range from a natural finish to a high-gloss lacquer. Texture is important, and a multitude of fabric selections can vary from durable materials to sophisticated, plush fabrics, with tone-on-tone or small scale graphics. A balanced mix of several textures is often used.[3]

photo: NRice NYNOW/Emporiumhom

photo credit: lofthome.com

Below you can see some examples of my favorite transitional furniture and accessories. They show a great way to combine classic and contemporary pieces to create an ambiance of sophisticated casual elegance.  In essence it is the “best of both worlds” design strategy.  A tip is to start with a neutral color palette, then add trendy touches that will incorporate color, texture and pattern.  This subtle color combination merged with mixed finishes allows for a timeless design, because it blends both masculine and feminine details.  Transitional Coastal style design is a calm, serene and timeless way to decorate.



Nicole Rice