How to separate spaces with partition walls?

Creating separate areas in your home can be tricky, but partition walls can help. They add structure to open spaces and improve privacy and functionality. With many designs and materials to choose from, partition walls can fit perfectly with your decor while clearly defining different zones in your home. This article will show you the top 10 ways to use partition walls to transform your space.

See also: How to design your home office

 

Temporary and flexible partition walls

Freestanding screens

Freestanding screens are a flexible and stylish way to divide a room without the need for a permanent wall. They come in various materials, styles, and sizes, making them perfect for any interior design.

• Materials: You can find screens made from wood, metal, fabric, and even bamboo.
• Styles: Whether you prefer a classic, minimalist look or something more decorative, there’s a screen that will fit your taste. 
• Benefits: These screens are easy to move around, giving you the flexibility to change your space as needed.

Source: Pinterest

 

Curtains

Curtains are an affordable and stylish way to divide a room and create separate areas. They work great for defining spaces like a sleeping area in a studio apartment or a dining spot in an open-plan kitchen.

• Materials: You can choose from sheer, opaque, or blackout curtains, depending on how much privacy and light control you want.
• Hardware: Using floor-to-ceiling curtain rods adds a dramatic and modern touch.
• Benefits: Curtains are easy to install, budget-friendly, and can be easily swapped out to fit different decor styles.

Source: Pinterest

 

Bookshelves

Double-sided bookshelves are a great way to divide a room while also providing functional storage. They help create separate areas and display your book collection beautifully.

• Materials: Popular choices include wood, metal, and acrylic.
• Styles: You can find minimalist, industrial, or traditional designs to match your decor.
• Benefits: These bookshelves add storage space and serve as a stylish focal point in your room.

Source: Pinterest

 

Living wall of plants

A living wall made of plants is a beautiful and natural way to divide a room. It adds greenery to your space and creates a calming atmosphere.

• Plants: Use a mix of plants with different sizes and textures to make it visually interesting.
• Systems: There are many options for creating living walls, from DIY kits to professional installations.
• Benefits: Living walls improve air quality, bring a touch of nature indoors, and serve as a stunning focal point.

Source: Pinterest

 

Wooden panelling

Wooden panelling is a stylish and elegant way to divide a space, adding warmth and a touch of sophistication to your room.

• Materials: Common options include oak, pine, and cedar. 
• Styles: You can choose from various styles such as rustic, modern, or classic to match your decor. 
• Benefits: Wooden panelling provides a durable and attractive partition, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your space.

Source: Pinterest

 

Permanent solutions

Glass partitions

Glass partitions provide a modern and sleek way to divide a space while keeping an open feel. They let natural light flow through, making the area look larger and brighter.

• Types: Popular options include frameless, framed, and sliding glass partitions.
• Customisation: You can choose clear, frosted, tinted, or textured glass to meet different privacy needs and style preferences.
• Benefits: Glass partitions create a sense of openness, maximise natural light, and add a contemporary touch to your space.

Source: Pinterest

 

Sliding doors

Sliding doors are a flexible way to divide a room. They can be opened fully to make the space feel larger or closed for privacy.

• Styles: You can choose from barn doors, pocket doors, or bypass doors. 
• Materials: They come in wood, glass, or a mix of both. 
• Benefits: Sliding doors save space compared to traditional hinged doors and can add a stylish touch to your room.

Source: Pinterest

 

Half-height walls

Half-height walls are a great way to define a space without fully closing it off. They can be paired with glass panels or open shelving to create a unique and eye-catching look.

• Materials: Usually made from drywall or wood.
• Design: You can choose from straight, curved, or decorative designs.
• Benefits: These walls provide a mix of openness and privacy, visually separate areas, and can be customised to match various styles.

Source: Pinterest

 

Custom-built furniture

Custom-built furniture can act as both a practical storage solution and a room divider. Bookcases, cabinets, or entertainment centres can be designed to meet your specific needs and blend seamlessly with your space.

• Materials: Options include wood, metal, or acrylic.
• Design: You can customise the design to match your interior style.
• Benefits: It makes the most of your space, provides extra storage, and adds a stylish focal point to your room.

Source: Pinterest

 

Pony walls

Pony walls are low walls that gently separate areas without making them feel closed off. They’re perfect for defining spaces while keeping an open feel.

• Materials: Usually made from drywall or wood.
• Height: Typically around knee-height or waist-high.
• Benefits: They offer visual separation without blocking light or airflow, can be used with different flooring materials, and add a touch of architectural interest.

Source: Pinterest

 

FAQs

What is a partition wall?

A partition wall is a non-load-bearing wall used to divide a space within a building.

What are the different types of partition walls?

Partition walls can be permanent (drywall, glass, wood) or temporary (freestanding screens, curtains, room dividers).

What factors should I consider when choosing a partition wall?

Factors include budget, desired level of privacy, aesthetic preferences, and the purpose of the partition.

Can partition walls be load-bearing?

No, partition walls are not designed to support the weight of a building's structure.

Do partition walls require permits?

Depending on your location and the type of partition wall, permits may be required. Check with your local building department.

What are the advantages of temporary partition walls?

They are flexible, easy to install, and often more affordable than permanent options.

How effective are temporary partition walls at blocking noise?

Generally, temporary partition walls offer limited sound insulation.

What are the advantages of permanent partition walls?

They provide better sound insulation, durability, and can be customized to specific needs.

How much does it typically cost to install a permanent partition wall?

The cost varies depending on materials, labor, and the complexity of the installation.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com