Transitional Interior Design Guide
Transitional interior design might not be as popular as traditional or modern, but our design team knows it inside and out. This decor is easy to describe: traditional elegance and contemporary simplicity. But how can you blend these two elements? By working with Julie Muscato Home & Gifts.
Traditional design brings warmth through classic furniture shapes, and contemporary influence is about simplicity, clean lines, and neutral palettes. We use a balanced approach, with furnishings and inspiration from the best of both worlds.
Neutral Foundations in Transitional Interior Design
Successful transitional spaces start with neutral backdrops. To start, use paint or
wallpaper in soft whites, warm beiges, gentle grays, or subtle taupes to spotlight your furnishings. Understated wall colors encourage a calming atmosphere and allow you the freedom to layer other design elements.
Neutrals needn't feel boring—different textures and subtle tonal shifts add interest. Suggestions include two-tone paint techniques and soft white wainscoting paired with warmer wall colors. We also like grasscloth wall coverings for transitional aesthetics.
Interior Decor for Transitional Design
Look for pieces that combine traditional shapes with contemporary simplicity; upholstered items should have clean lines without being rigid or fancy-schmancy. The best transitional furniture pieces are simplified versions of conventional shapes—cozy, moderately scaled pieces that avoid extremes. Limit ornamentation or carving to keep the look current, and select natural materials like wood, glass, lacquer, and metals that bridge traditional and modern styles. Can't find what you want in chain furniture stores? Go the custom route.
Window Treatments for Transitional Design
Window treatments in transitional spaces should complement the overall aesthetic without being focal points—simple, elegant solutions with clean lines work best. Roman shades with minimal patterns are perfect, and wooden blinds or woven shades also enhance transitional decor.
The key is selecting window treatments that feel neither overly traditional nor starkly modern. Avoid heavy swags, ornate valances, or minimalist solutions that lean too far in either direction. Add subtle hardware that doesn't overwhelm the window.
Transitional Interior Design Decorative Elements
Choose fewer, more impactful pieces rather than cluttering surfaces with too many small items. Avoid visual noise with simple glass vases or ceramic vessels in neutral tones; abstract or impressionist artwork perfectly bridges traditional and contemporary aesthetics. You can also add natural elements like driftwood or stone for organic texture; those complement woven wood shades.
Feel free to add silver, gold, or bronze for shimmer and elegance, but don't go too bright. Add textured throws and blankets in neutral shades and mirrors with simple frames. Lighting fixture recommendations include traditional forms with updated finishes, like drum pendants and understated chandeliers.
Consult WIth Our Traditional Interior Design Experts
Visit Julie Muscato Home & Gifts to browse through our carefully curated collection of transitional furniture, accessories, and decor. We can't wait to help you select the perfect pieces to create a balanced interior space that reflects your style. Contact us for service in Buffalo, Wilson, Lewiston, Youngstown, Grand Island, Wheatfield, Williamsville, Amherst, Clarence, Kenmore, Tonawanda, Orchard Park, East Aurora, and Medina, New York.
