Transitional style

Is also known as ‘updated classic’ or ‘classic with a contemporary twist’. It is a design aesthetic in interior and furniture design which finds a midway point between old traditional styles and super contemporary ‘chrome and glass’ styling. It tends to incorporate lines that are less ornate than the traditional but without the austerity of the contemporary. The overall effect produced is classic, timeless and clean.

The main theme is ‘balance’ and the style seeks to do this, not only through line and colours, which are taken from the neutral pallette, but also by ensuring that spaces are comfortable and functional and don’t put design before use. The style is not averse to using fabrics with bold designs and large textured prints, and can feature a range of surfaces from wood to high gloss plastics.

Well known 21st century transitional style furniture designers include Barbara Barry, Sally Sirkin Lewis, Nina Petronzio, Thomas Pheasant and Maxine Snider.