Whether you live in a small studio apartment or a large home with an open-plan design, there will be times when you want some personal space.
Although the trend towards open-plan rooms is still strong, private areas are of great value and allow you to retreat from the world. Room dividers, styling and arrangement ideas are your best best. Below we’ve looked at a variety of different options to divide the spaces in your home, ensuring a balanced and harmonious effect is maintained and does not limit access.
Create serene seclusion and use your space more efficiently through division.
ROOM DIVIDER IDEAS: HOW TO STYLE YOUR HOME FOR MORE SPACE
1. Arrangement of furniture
In a large, open-plan living space, use the centre of the room, rather than arranging pieces along the perimeter, so it doesn’t feel empty.
Position large pieces of furniture wisely to divide evenly.
Don’t be afraid to put your buffet in the centre of the room to create two distinct areas on either side.
Choose large items in similar tones so they don’t overpower the space and use small, beautiful objects such as vases or bowls to break up the vastness.
Always leave plenty of space around larger pieces of furniture to avoid a sense of overcrowding.
A L-shape lounge is a simple way to create a living zone in both an open plan space and a compact apartment.
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2. Lights to separate spaces
Lighting is a subtle way to section a room. Lamps and candles provide soft, dim light, which illuminates only a small area, while downlights can be directed on particular focal points, such as a painting on the wall. Pendants or chandeliers are a feature in themselves, so be sure to position them for maximum effect.
A statement chandelier clearly defines the dining zone in this open plan living space.
(Photo: Sylvie Colless)3. Rugs as room dividers
For a subtle alternative, your choice of flooring is an effective way to define a space. By grouping your furniture on or near a rug, and by using rugs in varying shapes and sizes, you can demarcate a particular area of a room. Rugs are also a great way to soften hard, cold floors.
A rug placed in the centred of this curved living space helps to anchor the furniture.
(Photo: Maree Homer)4. Bookshelves to break up the space
While they’re a necessity, bookshelves can sometimes be a bit tricky to position in a room. All books are beautiful and should be made into a feature. A double-sided bookshelf is the perfect option in many ways – it provides two faces to line with books and can also become a temporary wall.
Make it a feature by grouping items in a similar colour or adding a ladder for a library feel.
You don’t have to use your bookshelf exclusively for books – mix beautiful objects and aesthetic mementos among your favourite tomes for an eclectic and artful display.
Or, make your bookshelf perform double duty by filling one side with books and the other with storage boxes.
A shelving unit strategically placed at the end of this hallway separates the living room room, creating more of a defined entryway.
(Photo: Alicia Taylor)5. Curtains as a room divider
First, decide on the most practical way to divide your room in terms of function. If you want to completely dissect a room and create two areas, consider hanging a curtain from the ceiling. By attaching a curtain track to the ceiling and hanging a beautiful piece of fabric fitted with curtain hooks, you can use the rest of the room for another purpose, such as a guest bedroom.
By hanging a curtain on a track you have the option to open and close it whenever you wish, and changing or cleaning the fabric will be easy.
For a less dramatic effect, make a curtain from sheer fabric. Although you will be able to see through to both areas, it will create an illusion of privacy, and allow light and air to pass freely.
Whether you have a large bedroom or you live in a studio apartment, hanging a curtain is a simple way to create a sense of privacy.
(Photo: Maree Homer)6. Screens to section your space
For a more flexible and movable option, a temporary partition, such as a screen or room divider, is a great idea. By making your own screen you will have the chance to create exactly what you desire, and you can change it whenever you like by adding a splash of paint or a roll of wallpaper.
This DIY wallpaper screen is both decorative and functional – the perfect solution for renters who can’t commit to wallpaper!
(Photo: Alicia Taylor)THE BEST ROOM DIVIDER IDEA PRODUCTS FOR YOUR HOME
Sanderson rug 160x230cm in Ivory Multi, $199 (usually $699), Myer
A neutral base and jewel-toned accents make this tufted wool rug a soft statement piece fit for any living space. Demarcate your separate spaces with warmth, luxury and comfortability underfoot.
French flax linen curtain set in Natural, $193.50 (usually $215), I Love Linen
Section out your different spaces for some privacy with these gorgeous linen curtains – a natural colour makes it perfect for any aesthetic, and their slight sheerness will make sure you’re not enveloped in darkness!
Kojo 3 panel rattan room divider, $299 (usually $130), Temple & Webster
When you think of room divider ideas, the trusty screen can do no wrong. This lovely piece from Maddison Lane is made of bamboo and rattan, with iron hinges to ensure ultimate privacy and durability.
Boston 5 tier oak shelving, $839 (usually $1199), Adairs
This funky shelving unit is the perfect piece to divide your rooms with elegance. Crafted from European oak and designed in Australia, stack with your favourite books, trinkets and knickknacks to give this gorgeous shelf some character.
Shoal terracotta wall sconce, $119, Temple & Webster
This unique sconce is the perfect lighting feature if you’re someone who likes changing up the division of your space. Rotate to whichever orientation suits, and enjoy its warm, rich ambience.
