Open floor plans have received a lot of love in the last several years, but what’s one to do when the space is...too open?
If you’re a homeowner and game to take on quite a project, you might erect a wall or two, but for renters or those not looking to commit to such a permanent solution, there are other creative (less expensive 😬) ways to create separation.
Ahead, 7 ways to add dimension to your apartment, studio, or home without completely closing it off...or going broke.
Not sure if you have the tools you need to get started? Download Sparetoolz and get connected with local DIY-ers who have what you need!
The Bookworm
Avid reader? If you have a considerable collection of good reads, snag a modern bookshelf with openings on both sides to showcase them while filtering light through the room and creating a divider--without closing the room off completely. If you’re not super stocked up on books, use plants or other home decor to fill the cubbies.
Get Lifted
When we think about divvying up a space, we typically picture some sort of flat divider that takes one room and makes it two, but using levels is another way to break it up, visually. Perfect for lower-traffic areas, like bedrooms or offices, platform projects can create visual interest without minimizing available space! Need some inspiration? There are a loooot of ideas out there.
The Clothes Horse
Especially practical for those with more clothes than closet space, a tasteful, modern clothing rack (perhaps this one? Or this?) can double as a barrier in a large bedroom area or studio apartment. Like the rack idea but not sure about putting your clothes on display? Try hanging plants at varying levels instead!
Fold It Up
Decorative folding panels are such quintessential room dividers, we were hesitant to even mention them; BUT we’re all about the DIYs and we found some great ideas for building your own privacy screen. (Here’s a cool one!) We love these babies for their versatility. Want it in the bedroom one week and in the living area the next? Heck yeah. Want to do away with the division altogether? No problem. High impact, low-commitment solutions are life.
Curtain Call
Windows be damned! Curtains can be a quick, easy, and inexpensive way to create a divider in your space. Extend a curtain rod from one wall to another or suspend it from the ceiling, select your favorite curtains, and voila! Cozy privacy when you want it, open space when you want to turn some cartwheels! (Or...whatever it is you do in your house. Ahem.)
Play Gallery Owner
A chic and versatile (read: customizable) solution for partitioning a space is yet another ceiling-suspension project, and Hunker shows you how to do it right! All you need is a stud finder, fasteners (properly rated for the weight of your artwork, of course), single strand wire or cable, and some stellar art.
Rock What You've Got
If you’re looking for a quick fix or want to save money and time for other home projects, no worries! Use your furniture to section off your space. Whether it’s a desk positioned in the middle of the room or a sectional angled to close off the living area--with a little creativity, you can create dimension in your space by flaunting what you’ve already got.
Need the Tools?
Don’t forget to tap into the resources on Sparetoolz. There’s no project too big or too small for your community. Rent with ease, appreciate secure transactions, and connect with people in your area--all while completing those beautiful, satisfying DIYs.
