Kitchen & Bathroom Design Blog

One of the most popular styles for bathroom design today is the “transitional style”, and you will see it over and over again on any review of design trends or on popular design websites.  Most people are familiar with “traditional style”, “contemporary style”, or perhaps even a “rustic style” bathroom design, but what exactly is the “transitional style”?

Very simply the transitional bathroom design bridges the gap between traditional and contemporary styles, providing the homeowner with an option that draws the best elements of both the older traditional styles and newer contemporary styles.  Sitting somewhere in the middle, transitional bathroom design leaves out some of the more ornate aspects of the traditional but softens some of the harder lines of contemporary designs.  The result is a style that is timeless and clean and very much in line with today’s trend toward less cluttered and more classic and comfortable designs.

So when you remove the excessive ornamentation sometimes associated with more traditional designs and minimize the harder edges, chrome and glass associated with modern designs, what does that leave you?  You have the freedom to pick and choose those elements of both that will create a sophisticated but also soothing environment in your bathroom design.  You can focus on comfort and practicality, leaving you with a classic look that will be in style for a long time to come.

Here are a few of the key elements you might consider for your next bathroom renovation if you think the transitional style meets your needs:

Vanities and cabinetry:  transitional style vanities sit anywhere on the style spectrum between traditional and contemporary.  They combine classic styles with clean lines and simple door panels in the more traditional rich wood tones.  When complimented by simple, modern hardware the transitional vanity gives a sophisticated look with a more casual edge, as seen in this example below:

Color Schemes: think of a classic color palette if you are looking at a transitional style bathroom design.  Tan, beige, white and grey are all good choices, but other muted colors such as light blue can also be in line with this style and help to create a soothing atmosphere.  You might also consider adding a strong pop of color somewhere in the bathroom as a nod to the contemporary side of this design spectrum.

Tiles and countertops: tile flooring and countertops often follow the transitional style color schemes outlined above, and tend toward materials such as marble or natural stone to give a more classic look. 

Hardware: bathroom hardware echoes the simple lines of the transitional style, with soft curves combined with pleated edges to bring in the contemporary side.  The sleek lines of the hardware add to the soothing, comfortable atmosphere of your transitional style bathroom design, and the clean lines result in a no-fuss, easier to maintain bathroom.

Transitional style bathroom design could be the perfect fit for you if you find traditional styles too lavish and ornate, but think strict contemporary designs are too modern and cold.  Somewhere in between is the ideal design, drawing on your favorite elements from both styles.  Visit our design gallery here for more inspiration, or consult your design professional for more advice on how the transitional style might work for your next bathroom renovation.