Traditional to Transitional

Before Photo

My client's home has gorgeous millwork throughout. The fireplace wall, however, was one area where Mrs. Client felt it was a bit too ornate for her taste; it was something that had bothered her for years but she wasn't sure what exactly to do about it.

Before Photo

Mrs. Client's style had always been traditional, which was a natural fit for their colonial style home. Listening to her describe some of the things that she didn't love along with what she did love gave me a good idea of where to take the project. I took note of the fact that she is a southern belle and loves the beach. In addition I asked which pieces were sentimental to her and her family so that I could be sure to incorporate those into the design.

Before Photo

I created a design plan that moved the space from traditional to transitional. As an aside, transitional style is a marriage of traditional and contemporary. It infuses clean lines and finishes into the traditional style mix. Ding, ding, ding, we had a winner. Mrs. Client loved it and we were off to the races!

We modified the built-in cabinets by squaring off the ornamental cuts at the tops of the bookcases for a more clean, contemporary feel. We stripped the center portion completely with the exception of the mantel, which we kept intact, and added an additional piece to the bottom to make it more substantial. I designed corbels that would be attached underneath the mantel to add interest but still kept with the transitional design. We added a new firebox and applied natural Juneau Ledgestone. Next we gave the bookcases, mantel and corbels a fresh coat of paint in Sherwin Williams Snowbound and applied SW Black Bean on the back panels for depth and richness. Finally, I styled it out by using a mix of new and existing accessories.

The rest of the room got a makeover as well with new paint, furniture, area rug, lighting and accessories.

I have to say, I have had the privilege of working with some great people. Mrs. Client was awesome in so many ways, she was open to change, my ideas and trusted my vision but most of all she was so much fun to work with. We had some great conversations and tons of laughs. Thanks, Mrs. C!

Keep scrolling for after all the fun after photos :)