How to Use Furniture to Divide a Room
Whether you have an open-concept layout or just need to divide your living space into distinct zones, it's easy to add visual boundaries using furniture. The key is to use pieces that offer both function and character. For example, decorative screens and tall cabinets double as dividers while providing storage and a place to style a display of decor. In addition, oversized furniture like sectionals and coffee tables can define separate areas.
Another option is to use a partition made of drapery. You can choose a contrasting fabric that complements the decor in each area. Velvet curtains offer drama while gauzy options generate a lighter ambiance. Another popular choice is a barn door, which offers a rustic look while functioning as a firmer barrier than curtains. In this living room, designer Alexandra Champalimaud hung curtains that resemble the Portuguese flag to add a personal touch to the design and mark a dividing line between seating and dining areas.
A large bookcase is another functional way to divide a room, especially when positioned perpendicularly and surrounded by a gallery wall. If you don't want to disrupt natural light, opt for a shelf with open cubby spaces instead of one with closed shelving. In an open-concept kitchen, this shelving creates a border between the eating and living areas without blocking views of the stove and other appliances.
You can also divide a room by using the frame of a staircase to create a cozy nook. For example, in this 1953 cottage, the space under the staircase was transformed into a multipurpose nook with the help of a built-in bench and a few wall sconces. Alternatively, a large sofa or armoire can serve as a natural boundary in an open-concept home. This option works best if the furnishings are upholstered in different fabrics or colors to show a clear separation of space.
Many homeowners turn to semi-permanent additions, such as a ceiling beam or half wall, to create rooms. This solution is a great option when changing the architecture of your home isn't feasible or practical, as it allows you to customize the layout and add functionality to an existing floor plan.
When a room needs a bit of privacy, half walls are a simple and cost-effective solution. The wooden slats in this project by DIY expert Liz Morrow offer an eye-catching alternative to traditional paneled walls while creating an airy, open feel.
If a full wall isn't an option, try a creative screen to provide visual separation while still allowing light and movement between areas. For example, this woven rattan partition by the pool offers an eye-catching alternative to a solid wall while still keeping out the elements.
In a smaller space, a folding screen offers more privacy than a door and can be easily stored when not in use. This versatile piece can be used in an entryway, bedroom or bath. rèm điều hoà phòng khách makes a fun focal point in the kitchen, as seen in this home.