25 Transitional Kitchen Ideas You’ll Never Regret

Transitional kitchens are having a moment—a big moment, one that’s bound to stay in style for years (and years) to come.

It’s easy to see why the aesthetic is so popular. Transitional style sits between traditional and contemporary, making it a timeless aesthetic. The result is a fresh, but not too contemporary, feel. Kitchens in this style are often bright and open, with a practical layout packed with plenty of style.  

“Transitional design offers this warm aesthetic, with comfortable spaces that are both elegant in their classic features and functional in their approach to layout and everyday needs,” Alicia Hassen, the principal interior designer of Brooklinteriors in Austin, Texas, says. 

Ready to reno? Consider including these key transitional kitchen elements.

Key Elements of a Transitional Kitchen

A Warm, Neutral Color Palette

Soft whites and greiges feel right at home in a transitional kitchen. The simplicity of a transitional kitchen design’s color palette allows for a cohesive design, one that eliminates visually distracting elements.

In addition to neutral shades, you can’t go wrong with classic wood tones either. Wood can be used on the floor, ceiling, cabinetry, and even on the walls via paneling.

Modern Appliances

When it comes to a kitchen’s workhorses—a range and refrigerator, for starters—think contemporary. In transitional kitchens, appliances typically lean more modern in style, whether you choose sleek (and standout) stainless steel or custom cabinetry fronts that create a cohesive look. 

Clean-Lined Cabinetry

Cabinetry is imperative for transitional kitchens, as much of the space’s visual impact is thanks to the cabinets. Keep the lines clean and storage aplenty. Consider painted wood with recessed-panel doors, like Shaker cabinets.

An Emphasis on Natural Light

The more natural light, the better. Transitional kitchens accentuate all the natural light they can get, which is often enhanced with white elements. Light bounces off of white tiles and cabinets for an especially bright space.

Not Boring Flooring

Whatever flooring you choose, prioritize two traits: it should be both durable and enduring in style. Still, don’t be afraid to have fun with your flooring, says Hassen. 

Plank-style flooring, whether wood or a wood-lookalike, is common in transitional kitchens. As are forever-in-style patterns, like herringbone and checkerboard. 

Hassen recommends using hardwood (such as hickory, pine, or oak) or using a classic stone like tumbled limestone. For a touch of personal style, add a runner to your kitchen floor; that’ll also incorporate some warmth, color, and pattern. 

Traditional Countertops

In transitional kitchens, countertops tend to stick to a streamlined look. Opt for neutral tones, a thick profile, and a durable material.

Quartz and quartzite are low-maintenance countertop options, while Carrara or Calacatta marble offers a more traditional look. For a modern edge, consider waterfall countertops on an island; those are commonly used in transitional kitchens. 

Blended-Style Lighting

Lighting packs a punch of personality in any space, but especially in a transitional kitchen. Pendant lighting is a popular option, whether you opt for oversized and industrial or clean and contemporary. 

Hassen recommends blending more modern shades with brass or bronze pendant rods. That emphasizes the entire ethos of transitional design, blending old and new into a classic look.

Interesting Hardware

While transitional kitchens rely on classic yet cool big elements, don’t overlook the details. Hardware and plumbing fixtures are a less expensive place to pay homage to enduring design with unlacquered brass and other warm metals.

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25 Transitional Kitchen Ideas to Copy