Interior Design 101: Breaking Down Three Prominent Design Styles

Let's go back to the basics with three of the most popular interior design styles. There are many styles to choose from when you remodel, and finding the one that truly represents you makes your house feel like home.

Here is a closer look at traditional, transitional and contemporary design to help you decide what you want for your next project.

Traditional Style

Traditional design uses simple, classic features to create a timeless look. It relies on neutral palettes and practical choices, with functionality, uniformity, comfort and warmth as its defining traits.

• Defined rooms: separate spaces for living, working and private life.
• Symmetry: evenly spaced windows, posts and doors give strong curb appeal.
• Rich materials: natural materials, dark wood, soft curves and raised panel cabinetry rooted in 18th and 19th century design make the home feel warm and inviting.

Transitional Style

Transitional design sits in the middle, bridging traditional and contemporary for a smooth blend. It pairs clean, timeless furnishings with a few unexpected accessories, and there is no strict formula.

• Modern light fixtures with traditional crown molding and cabinetry.
• Clean recessed cabinet doors with traditionally detailed handles and faucets.
• In a bathroom, natural wood cabinets with round mirrors and sleek faucets.

Larger windows, clean lines and easy-to-swap accessories and textures let a transitional home evolve over time. Modern lovers get contemporary touches without losing warmth, and traditionalists can enjoy cleaner lines and more open space.

Contemporary Style

Contemporary design breaks the mold. It embraces current trends while staying minimal and a little unexpected.

• Open, airy floor plans with large windows and metal accents.
• Mixed materials like concrete, steel, glass and wood under one roof.
• Focus on space rather than lots of furniture for a sleek, fresh feel.
• Connection to nature, sometimes with features like a living plant wall.

Find Your Style

Not sure which style is right for you? Avoid common pitfalls with these interior design mistakes to avoid, and see more in our project gallery. Then call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us online.