Transitional Style 101

Transitional lighting style is extremely versatile and widespread, yet you might not know what it even is or how to define it! That's alright because now you'll find out, so you will soon be an expert at finding transitional pieces that could be perfect for your home.

Transitional style is sometimes also known as classic with a contemporary twist, updated classic or new takes on old classics, though it usually goes by the easier-to-remember name of transitional.

Basically, it is the midway point between traditional and modern styles. Transitional pieces are less ornate than their traditional counterparts, but not as streamlined and out-of-the-box as modern fixtures. They combine the best of both worlds for a clean, comfortable, contemporary look.

Transitional fixtures are simple yet sophisticated, minimalist yet practical. Neutral colors are very commonly used, though wood (in light and dark washes) is also a hallmark of transitional design. Use a few different neutral tones together to craft a beautifully transitional room.

Fabric finishes, often used in many transitional applications such as lighting, will also bring a comfortable feel to your space. Straight lines and simpler curves define the design as well. For frames of reference, some known furnishing styles that fit the transitional label include Shaker, Mission and Asian.

"Transitional is a clean line that would blend with anything," says Michelle Plumley, director of training for Progressive Lighting in Atlanta. "[Transitional is for] those people who choose to streamline their furniture, or those who tend to be more eclectic and blend old with new. [They] tend to choose a fixture that would work with anything. That is transitional."

So if you don't feel like a good fit for ornate traditional pieces, but don't really like the way contemporary fixtures look either, you could find your perfect match under the transitional umbrella.

Top brands for transitional style lighting include Feiss, Quoizel, Kichler, Minka Lavery, Elk Lighting and Savoy House, though because of its versatility, you will see transitional looks across many brands.

Need a little more help with transitional lighting solutions? Contact us or call our trained lighting specialists at 1-866-688-3562. Sign up for our email newsletter today and score an additional discount!

Emma Harger-Young - Lights Online