These DIY Room Dividers Will Help Break up Your Open Floor Plan.
If your open floor plan is too open or you want to dedicate a certain space for targeted use, you may benefit from room dividers. Since most types of room partitions are much simpler and less expensive to renovate, they are a good solution if you’re on a budget. In addition, partitions can often be versatile, making them convertible if you want to change the configuration. Here’s a handy guide to creating creative and practical room dividers that will help you design your space on a budget.
Use a foldable privacy screen
The classic type of partition that most people are familiar with is the folding partition . They are good for dividing small areas and are one of the most versatile options due to their portability, as well as being cost effective at around $100 (and up). The downside to the privacy screen is that it only covers about six feet of linear space.
Use shelving
Using a free-standing bookshelf as a room divider is a good alternative, especially for an office or library. The good thing about a bookshelf is that it comes in a variety of shapes and sizes to allow access to one or both sides, as well as varying heights and widths to suit your needs. When choosing bookshelves, keep in mind that you will need to find one that will stand without a wall behind it , one that can be attached to the ceiling , or two bookshelves that can be joined together to extend the base and hold them. from capsizing. Because there are so many types of shelves, prices vary greatly, but simple shelves will cost anywhere from $50 to $300 depending on size. You can choose different shelving configurations to suit your needs, but they are not always customizable, so they may not be suitable for oddly shaped spaces.
Use curtains
A curtain partition is a universal option that can be used in almost any space. Using a ceiling-mounted track , a hanging rod with brackets or a tension cable system, and a curtain tall enough for your space, you can create almost any shape for the room. Curtain hanging systems will cost between $35 and $100 depending on the type and size, and curtain panels will also vary greatly depending on the material and size. You can choose opaque curtains to achieve more privacy or less distraction.
Use Refurbished Windows
You can create a partition using recycled materials by hanging reclaimed windows. You will need to find a ceiling beam to attach hanging hardware to, and also use well-made hardware to hang the salvaged windows. The total cost of this project can vary widely, from about $20 for equipment and some free reclaimed windows to about $300 for reclaimed windows from a dealer. It’s important to check reclaimed windows for lead paint: chipped lead paint can be dangerous, especially to children or pets. These partitions have some space between the panels and are translucent, so they do not provide much privacy.
Use wire mesh
Using wire mesh panels suspended from the ceiling is a versatile way to create a room divider that can then be installed to store potted plants using wire hanging hooks , baskets , or to display artwork . Because the panels can be cut to size, they are a versatile option for creating a room divider. The panels cost between $75 and $100 per panel, so it’s an affordable DIY option if you don’t need to cover a huge number of linear feet. The downside to this partition is that it is not transparent, so if you need privacy, this will not be the best option for you.