40 Clever Room Divider Ideas

These room dividers not only maximize space but also double as works of art. We've put together 40 different ways to divvy up a room using bookshelves, curtains, metal and more.

Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these affiliate links.

September 12, 2021

By: Maggie Miller and Colleen Sullivan

Related To:

Shop This Look

Photo By: Bri Moysa

Photo By: Courtesy of IKEA

Photo By: Nick Sheerly,NAS Films

Photo By: Cassidy Garcia Photography

Photo By: David Land

Photo By: Robert Peterson, Rustic White Photography

Photo By: Tomas Espinoza Photography

Photo By: Jeff Herr

Photo By: Courtesy of IKEA

Photo By: RoomDividersNow

Photo By: Deasy Penner Podley, a member of Luxury Portfolio International

Photo By: Unique Estates, a member of Luxury Portfolio International

Photo By: Philip Castleton

Photo By: Doug Young

Photo By: Axis Mundi Design

Photo By: Blackstone Edge

Photo By: Emily Jones

Photo By: Susan Hayek

Photo By: SIMON BURN

Photo By: Mike Sinclair

Photo By: Mike Sinclair ©Mike Sinclair

Photo By: Marcia Prentice

Photo By: Craig Smith

Dividers for Every Place and Space

Dividers have a lot to offer a space. These partitions bring beauty and privacy to dorm rooms, shared bedrooms, open-plan living rooms, studio apartments and anywhere else that could use a quick floor plan fix. We've rounded up a list of gorgeous inspirational and DIY options to fit any space, indoors and out. First up: This sleek shelving unit offers instant privacy and much-needed storage in a dorm room. Available from IKEA, the spacious cubes are ideal for creating a little bit of separation without walling your space off entirely.

BUY IT: Cube Shelving Unit from Ikea, $89.99

Make a Message Board

This partition wall was added to the main suite of this small condo to give each child their own area. Designers decided to get a little fun and funky and went with chalkboard paint for the surface of the wall. The dark accent color works well in the otherwise neutral palette and gives each of the room’s residents an opportunity to add their own flair.

SEE MORE: 35 Shared Kids' Room Design Ideas

From: Bri Moysa

Use a Divider as a Quick Fix

Managing editor Shannon Petrie uses this cute divider for hiding the water heater in her laundry room. Lightweight screens like this one from Urban Outfitters are a super quick solution for concealing household eyesores. This particular model pairs an understated white with intricately carved details, ideal for adding a subtle, decorative touch to any space. Follow the link below to buy, then check out more products HGTV editors use to hide the ugly stuff in their homes.

BUY IT: Urban Outfitters, $249

Separate Outdoor Spaces

Living rooms and office spaces aren’t the only places that benefit from a separation of space. Dividers are a great option for creating transitions and privacy in your outdoor living areas as well. This beautiful herringbone screen creates a cozy sitting area on this petite porch. Make your own using basic supplies from the hardware store and our step-by-step tutorial linked below.

GET THE HOW-TO: How to Build a Herringbone Privacy Screen

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Customizable, Multi-Use Divider

This personalized partition wall helps maintain privacy in a small, shared space. Painted in the room's blush and gold scheme, it runs perpendicular to each child’s area, separating without completely closing off. The divider features customized shelving and storage for both girls, saving on space and helping them stay organized. To see the full room makeover, follow the link below.

SEE MORE: Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, All in the Mosley Family

Be Bold With Your Room Divider

The azure walls in this vibrant studio apartment are accentuated by a fun four-panel divider. Tying in with some quirky throw pillows, the folding screen acts as a boundary between the sofa and sleeping area. Choosing dividers with bold graphics might feel intimidating, but paired with analogous colors and similar accent pieces, they can really energize a space.

SEE MORE: 30 Design Ideas for Your Studio Apartment

Use a Bookshelf as a Room Divider

With the openness of a studio apartment, sometimes it’s hard to establish a defined floor plan. A great way to do this is to carve out an area with a large piece of furniture like a bookshelf. Plus, who doesn't love some extra storage? Grab more studio apartment design ideas at the link, below.

SEE MORE: 30 Design Ideas for Your Studio Apartment

From: Anthology Interiors

Elevate the Space With a Vintage Divider

The classical swirls that crown this vintage screen soften the angles of this modern bedroom. Continuing with the pastel theme, its muted pink panels add to the soothing atmosphere of the room. The divider’s mirrored panels reflect adjacent windows, making the room feel much more spacious.

Design a Dual-Use Divider

Double up on functionality with this DIY divider/clothing rack. This stylish piece is a perfect solution for spaces with minuscule closets and can create a natural boundary between different areas of the bedroom. The open construction keeps it from feeling too bulky, while the gorgeous modern design introduces an air of boutique charm. Get the full tutorial at the link below.

GET THE HOW-TO: How to Make a Chic Copper Garment Rack

Carve Out Space With Curtains

Curtains are a budget-friendly way to add privacy and a sense of separation to an area without totally closing it off. With curtains, even studio apartment dwellers can have that cozy bedroom feeling they miss without forfeiting their damage deposit or breaking their lease. Installed on a tension curtain rod, this sheer divider is easily pulled back when you want to open up the space.

SEE MORE: 30 Design Ideas for Your Studio Apartment

An Open Divider Equals an Open Space

Despite being located directly next to a stairwell, this dining room maintains an intimate ambiance thanks to a sleek wooden screen. The slatted design of the divider allows natural light to stream in from adjacent rooms, opening up the small area. Inspired by Scandinavian design, the screen fits seamlessly in with the space’s limited color palette, natural textures and clean lines.

SEE MORE: Dining Room Pictures From HGTV Urban Oasis 2019

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Easily Separate a Shared Dorm Room

Even the best roomies need a place to go to enjoy some alone time. If your living situation doesn’t offer separate areas to work or study, try creating your own divider. A curtain panel or tapestry hung on a DIY galvanized pipe frame produces an instant free-standing screen. For more ideas on no-fuss shared living, follow the link below.

SEE MORE: No-Fuss Dorm Room Decor for Dudes

Upcycled Divider

License plates make a cool collectible but can also commandeer a ton of wall space when on display. Put those plates to use and create your own funky room divider. Great for establishing an outdoor eating area or cordoning off a creative space, this hanging screen is an instant conversation starter. Follow the link below for the full how-to.

GET THE HOW-TO: License Plate Room Divider

Use a Divider Between Furniture

It can be hard to organize furniture in an open floor plan. Here, designer Ashley Gilbreath has solved this planning puzzle by placing a set of rustic green shutters between two sitting areas. The subtle approach seamlessly delineates both living spaces without feeling forced or overcrowded.

From: Ashley Gilbreath

Hide Unsightly Appliances

In small living spaces, it can feel like everything is on display, including your appliances. Chances are, even if your washing machine is state-of-the-art, you don’t want it to be the focal point of your living room. A neutral, understated divider can provide a quick and cost-effective fix, efficiently screening bulky amenities. For more tips on laying out small living spaces, follow the link below.

Screen Off a Secret Space

Studio apartments often mean an open concept floorplan. While this design is ideal for avoiding a claustrophobic space, it can present a challenge when trying to define areas of your home. One option for separating spaces is to use a large piece of furniture, like this bookshelf from IKEA, to block off an area. Here, the tall understated shelving unit completely screens a small office nook without over-cluttering the space. Get more studio apartment design tips at the link below.

SEE MORE: 30 Design Ideas for Your Studio Apartment

Make an Instant Divider

While these tall, concrete ceilings create a magnificently spacious atmosphere, the industrial design spells trouble for any kind of space delineation. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution for this floor planning dilemma. A tension rod paired with a tall curtain provides an instant and tasteful divider that can be installed in a matter of minutes. Easy to set up or break down, this versatile approach to separation can be put to use in any space.

Choose a Divider That Reflects Decor

This architectural divider feels like an extension of the space and acts as a point of separation between the entry, dining and living areas. Graceful iron vines contrast against a solid geometric frame, establishing an eye-catching centerpiece for each area. The choice to repeat materials and colors from the surrounding rooms creates a sense of cohesion within the Mediterranean-inspired decor.

From: Deasy Penner Podley and Luxury Portfolio International®

Dividers Make an Entrance

This multifunctional divider and bookcase by Erica Islas is the perfect solution for creating an entryway to this small apartment. The floor-to-ceiling design clearly demarcates the area, while open shelving keeps it from feeling claustrophobic. A tidy assortment of accent pieces organized on the shelves adds a welcoming touch, perfect for a tiny foyer.

If a Door Won't Do, Try a Divider

A built-in room divider featuring illustrations by artist Keith Haring complements the modern aesthetic of this Bulgarian home. Spanning a space much too broad for a standard door, this screen was a sophisticated solution for closing off the office when visitors come to call. The playful drawings set against a rather austere black and white palette communicate a sense of levity and energy. To see more from this minimalist masterpiece, follow the link below.

SEE MORE: Minimalist Masterpiece in Bulgaria

From: Unique Estates and Luxury Portfolio International®

DIY a Hanging Screen

Each year, Easter promises a bounty of candy and colorful plastic eggs. As the stockpile of bright baubles grows, it can be tempting to trash them. This year, try repurposing the spheres into an easy room divider. Simply drill a hole in each half, string them onto yarn, and add accents with sequins, beads, or any other pretty crafting supplies on hand! For more ideas on how to repurpose plastic Easter Eggs, follow the link below.

Go for a Partial Partition

Your divider doesn’t have to fully bisect a room to be effective. Nestled into a partition wall, this Venetian gray fireplace establishes an effortless transition between the two areas. Designed to be viewed from either side, the partial wall delivers a charming centerpiece to both sections without stifling the space.

From: Patty Malone

Create a Multi-Use Divider

This room divider not only separates the master bedroom and sitting area from the bathroom, it also doubles as a headboard. "By adding a cantilevered shelf to the other side of the headboard, I was able to create a makeup vanity in the bathroom area," says Kimberley Selden, designer and owner of Kimberly Selden Design Group.

Put Your Divider on Track

Designer Betty Wasserman needed to create a transition between the office and lounge area in this NYC apartment but didn't want to shut off the space with a traditional wall and door. Her solution? Wide wood barn doors allow for both privacy and openness — oh, and they're stylish too.

Add a Sculptural Element

This gorgeous patterned divider of metal and glass bricks separates this large space without smothering it. The openings between the textured glass allow light to filter through and continue the uncluttered aesthetic of the room. The modern sculptural design complements the artistic decor of the space without distracting from other pieces.

From: Axis Mundi

Custom Upholstered Room Divider

Delineate a work area from a sleep or living space by customizing inexpensive, bi-fold doors to create a one-of-a-kind room divider. Get step-by-step instructions from designer Brian Patrick Flynn, below.

GET THE HOW-TO: Custom Upholstered Room Divider

Light Up Your Divider

These spalted maple cutouts provide privacy between the dining and living room areas while adding a bit of architecture and proportion to the room. They’re wired with incandescent bulbs set on dimmers to create the perfect ambiance for dining. Design by Betty Wasserman Art and Interiors, New York City.

Divide a Room With Furniture

This floating bookshelf defines the entryway so you don't walk right into the living room and kitchen area. It's also an ideal spot for picture frames, books and plants. Design by Garrison Hullinger, owner and principal designer of Garrison Hullinger Interior Design, Portland.

Try Out a Patterned Divider

This home’s open layout is effectively separated into sitting and bedroom spaces by a brightly patterned divider. The hot pink design balances the simplicity of the accompanying furnishings, establishing a cosmopolitan approach to the space. On the opposite side, the screen acts as an engaging accent wall against which the headboard of the bed comfortably rests.

From: Hyde Evans Design

Control Drafts

"I found an old paned window at a salvage yard and cut it down to fit the opening between the entry and dining room. It not only looks cool, but it cuts down on drafts," says Emily Jones, graphic designer and owner of Jones Design Company, Seattle.

Double Up on Dividers

"We utilized two dividers in this room: The screen with its starburst pattern provides privacy and a beautiful look-through to a small garden, while the fireplace gives shape and structure to an otherwise open space," say designers Guy and Karen Vidal, owners of Design Vidal, Silver Lake, California.

Define a Foyer

"Without this divider, the front door would open directly into the living area and you'd see the lake view as soon as you entered the house. I created this diamond peek-a-boo wall to give visitors a glimpse of the water without giving everything away, " says Kimberley Selden, designer and owner of Kimberly Selden Designs, Toronto.

Enhance Your Foyer

A steel rod screen greets guests as soon as they walk in the door of this midcentury modern house. Softer than a solid wall, the rods allow light to carry through beyond the foyer. An inset box shelf holds keys and mail while the two detached ottomans provide a place to take off your shoes. Design by Matthew Hufft, creative director of Hufft Projects, Kansas City, Missouri.

Build a Study Area

There are only three rooms in this home: a bedroom, bathroom and open living space that includes the kitchen. These hardware-free walnut storage cabinets divide the living area and bedroom and include shelving, hanging rods and drawers. A space-saving cutout is a perfect spot for a desk. Design by Matthew Hufft, creative director of Hufft Projects, Kansas City, Missouri.

Add Art With A Folding Screen

The first portable room dividers were created in China, during the 3rd century Han Dynasty. They were designed to function not only as furniture but also decor, often featuring breathtaking designs and intricate motifs. This stunning screen recalls that history with hand-painted silk scenes on a wooden frame. A guaranteed point of visual intrigue, this lightweight, versatile piece can be easily displayed in any area of the home.

BUY IT: Wayfair, $233.00

Keep the (Barn) Door Open

A sliding barn door references the surrounding buildings on this farm. Made of reclaimed wood, it separates the bedroom from the bath, embracing the traditional farmhouse in a modern way. Design by Matthew Hufft, creative director of Hufft Projects, Kansas City, Missouri.

Add Some Personality

"The idea was to conceal an ugly kitchen vent and create a focal point above the banquette, so I designed a modern version of a shoji screen. To make it more personal, I took words from an Arabic prayer the homeowner learned as a child and stenciled them on the Plexiglas using silver paint," says Betty Wasserman, owner and designer, Betty Wasserman Art and Interiors, Ltd., New York City.

Add Height to a Room

"We love how this wood divider draws the eye up, giving the illusion of height in this longish room. It also echoes the shapes in the art nearby, making it feel like a continuation of the painting," say Guy and Karen Vidal, owners of Design Vidal, Silver Lake, California.

Dress It Up With a Divider

"Screens create the perfect finishing touch to a blah corner, plus a tall divider adds height to a room that may need it. This one has a distinctive '70s flair but the bold squares make it modern," says designer Jonathan Adler.

Try a Semi-Transparent Metal

"I created this three-panel screen out of a fine chain-link stainless steel mesh, then mounted it on a traversing track. It acts as a backdrop to the dining and living room area while still permitting light to filter through," says Maia Winter, owner of Wintercreative Interior Design, Scottsdale.

40 Clever Room Divider Ideas

Related To:

Shop This Look

Dividers for Every Place and Space

Make a Message Board

Use a Divider as a Quick Fix

Separate Outdoor Spaces

Customizable, Multi-Use Divider

Be Bold With Your Room Divider

Use a Bookshelf as a Room Divider

Elevate the Space With a Vintage Divider

Design a Dual-Use Divider

Carve Out Space With Curtains

An Open Divider Equals an Open Space

Easily Separate a Shared Dorm Room

Upcycled Divider

Use a Divider Between Furniture

Hide Unsightly Appliances

Screen Off a Secret Space

Make an Instant Divider

Choose a Divider That Reflects Decor

Dividers Make an Entrance

If a Door Won't Do, Try a Divider

DIY a Hanging Screen

Go for a Partial Partition

Create a Multi-Use Divider

Put Your Divider on Track

Add a Sculptural Element

Custom Upholstered Room Divider

Light Up Your Divider

Divide a Room With Furniture

Try Out a Patterned Divider

Control Drafts

Double Up on Dividers

Define a Foyer

Enhance Your Foyer

Build a Study Area

Add Art With A Folding Screen

Keep the (Barn) Door Open

Add Some Personality

Add Height to a Room

Dress It Up With a Divider

Try a Semi-Transparent Metal

40 Clever Ways to Clean Up and Organize Your Laundry Room 40 Photos

20 Fresh Ways to Use Teal in Your Living Room 20 Photos

20 Living Room Wall Decor Ideas That Are Anything But Boring 20 Photos

10 Best Stuffed Animal Storage Solutions

How to Make a Multipurpose Room Divider

The Best Outdoor Privacy Screen Ideas for Every Space

Related Pages