This Airy Loft’s Room Divider Is a Bar on One Side and a Desk on the Other

This article explores the inner-city loft apartment of Alex Eagle and her partner Mark Wadhwa, highlighting its eclectic style that blends theatrical flair with a relaxed, lived-in feel. The apartment, situated in a city, serves as both a home and a dynamic showroom for Alex's design, art, and fashion store. The couple moved into their home on Christmas Eve in 2013 and hosted Christmas lunch for 20 people the very next day, emphasizing the home's ability to accommodate social gatherings comfortably. The apartment's spacious layout and a large, extendable dining table, capable of seating up to 35 people, are central to this functionality. The article notes that many items sold in Alex's store often cycle through her home, creating an organic and ever-evolving display. The open-plan design of the loft provides a flexible canvas for the arrangement of art and furniture. Large-scale photographic artworks and colorful sculptures contribute to the visual interest, while vintage furniture and cozy textures ensure the space remains inviting and informal. A custom-built kitchen centrally anchors the open-plan area, defining separate zones for dining and lounging, and a more private section housing the bedroom, bathrooms, a formal sitting area, and Alex's home office. The office features ceiling-height bookshelves that span the entire wall. Alex's background, influenced by her art dealer father and 'serial decorator' mother, is cited as a source for her appreciation of art and design. Her childhood home, located in a leafy area, inspired the inclusion of large potted plants throughout the apartment, adding a touch of nature to the urban dwelling. The article describes the overall aesthetic as colorful and lively, reflecting Alex's inherent passion for design. #LoftApartment #EclecticStyle #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #OpenPlanLiving #VintageFurniture #ArtCollection #HomeOffice

Christine Espinal, a spatial designer for the home decor shop Lichen, relocated from Yonkers, New York, to a Brooklyn loft to shorten her commute. She found a rare New York City rental with a window and closet, signing the lease immediately. Initially, she occupied a lower-floor room in the duplex shared with two other creatives, but later moved into a highly sought-after, sun-filled loft space upstairs. Espinal appreciates the loft's low ceilings, measuring 6 feet 2 inches, which she finds creates a cozy atmosphere for meditation and reading, especially given her height just over 5 feet. While her primary work involves in-person tasks at Lichen's store, such as assisting customers and designing plywood mirrors, she uses a sectional sofa from her previous apartment as her preferred spot for after-hours email correspondence. This L-shaped sofa also serves to delineate her sleeping area from her workspace. Her desk, located at the opposite end of the room, is mainly used for displaying prototype trays and applying makeup, rather than for typical 9-to-5 work. When entertaining guests, Espinal's loft's open layout allows for easy interaction with those in the lower living space. For privacy at bedtime, she deploys a flexible and lightweight room divider, positioning it against the railing. On weekends, she keeps the divider rolled up to maximize natural light throughout the entire apartment. The abundant sunlight in the space prevents the low ceilings from feeling oppressive. She maintains white walls to help reflect and amplify the light, and foregoes curtains. A low platform bed frame is used to maintain appropriate proportions, avoiding the sensation of being in the upper bunk of a bunk bed. Espinal prioritizes mood lighting over overhead fixtures in both her personal space and the common living area. A chrome arched floor lamp serves multiple purposes, providing dining ambiance and a spotlight for TV viewing. Above her bed, a fabric Flos wall sconce acts as both a light source and a sculptural centerpiece, offering a soft glow for unwinding. A rounded paper lantern from Noguchi is situated above her desk. Instead of purchasing furniture from vintage markets or large retailers, Espinal designs and constructs her own pieces at Lichen's workshop. Examples include a curvy plywood bedside table and a cutout wine rack for the kitchen, both of which are planned for future retail availability at Lichen. The bedside table is designed for multi-functionality, doubling as a magazine rack when turned on its side. Her wine rack addresses the challenge of finding stylish bottle storage. As an employee of a vintage seller, Espinal also benefits from early access to new inventory, such as an orange storage system and a citrine floor lamp from Nmbello Studios in the living room. Following Lichen's temporary closure in February for production expansion, Espinal has transitioned from customer service to focusing on design and fabrication. She is currently working on refining her signature slatted storage designs. The article highlights Espinal's innovative approach to spatial design, creating a functional, private, and aesthetically pleasing living environment in a challenging urban space. #SpatialDesign #LoftLiving #RoomDivider #DIYFurniture #HomeDecor #BrooklynApartment #SmallSpaceSolutions #DesignerHome #Lichen

The increasing prevalence of hybrid working has led to a greater need for multifunctional living spaces. Homes now serve as integrated environments for work, dining, relaxation, recreation, and sleep. For individuals residing in smaller homes, this often means spending a significant amount of time within a single room. Room dividers offer a practical, stylish, and adaptable solution to this challenge by allowing for the effective partitioning of space. Room dividers can be utilized to establish distinct zones within a room. For example, they can create a serene sanctuary around a bed, define a separate dressing area, or carve out a dedicated workspace in a kitchen, minimizing distractions during important calls. The market offers a wide array of styles to accommodate diverse tastes and interior aesthetics, ranging from vintage-inspired and bohemian rattan designs to more minimalist and contemporary options. The article highlights nine specific room divider options available for purchase, each possessing unique design characteristics and functional benefits. These include a Maisons du Monde tropical print room divider, which uses a three-panel canvas with a print that creates a sense of depth and transports the viewer to a jungle setting. Another option is the Wayfair Alina three-panel room divider, characterized by simple white wooden struts that lend a timeless, summery aesthetic, reminiscent of a beach house. Ikea offers a white and black room divider with a wooden frame that is both practical and visually appealing, allowing for space division while still permitting light to pass through. For those who prefer natural materials, the Sklum bamboo screen provides an organic touch. Murando's decorative room divider features a painterly leaf print on canvas, offering an understated yet eye-catching design. An Etsy four-panel folding wooden room divider with a pegboard display stands out for its dual functionality, serving as a divider and a display unit for jewelry, accessories, and other small items. Ikea's handmade rattan room divider caters to the growing popularity of rattan interiors, exuding modern-retro charm. Sklum also offers a bamboo and canvas screen, providing a relaxed method for partitioning space. Finally, the Maisons du Monde openwork pine screen with a foliage motif features intricate openwork that can enhance even compact areas. These various options demonstrate how room dividers can effectively address the spatial challenges of smaller homes and hybrid work arrangements by creating functional and aesthetically pleasing divisions within a single room. #RoomDividers #SmallSpaces #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #HybridWorking #SpaceSolutions #HomeAccessories #DesignTrends #Furniture

The new Gearbox studio in Montreal, Canada, designed by Patriarche, showcases an innovative approach to office design within challenging architectural parameters. The primary challenge was the building's distinctively long and rectangular floor plan. Patriarche, an agency that practices "augmented architecture" by integrating technical, sociological, and scientific knowledge into its design process, tackled this by employing high color contrasts across walls, ceilings, and furnishings. This strategy serves a dual purpose: it injects energy into the various spaces and aids in wayfinding throughout the office, making it easier for employees and visitors to navigate the expansive layout. The collaboration between Gearbox and Patriarche was a continuation of a successful previous project that had received an award from the Grand Prix du Design, ensuring a high standard of both functionality and aesthetic appeal for the new workplace. The office provides a diverse range of workspaces designed to support different modes of work, accommodating the varied needs of a video game development team. It includes 208 open-space workstations for collaborative or individual tasks, 11 enclosed offices for more private work, 12 dedicated meeting rooms for team discussions and presentations, and 11 lounge areas for relaxation and informal interactions. This variety offers team members the flexibility to choose an environment best suited to their current tasks, promoting productivity and comfort throughout the day. The intentional division of space through color blocking not only creates visually stimulating zones but also subtly guides occupants, ensuring that despite the large and linear floor plan, different functions are clearly delineated and accessible. Beyond functionality, the design draws inspiration from Montreal's Old Port neighborhood, known for its urban and industrial character. Patriarche integrated elements of street art and 90s pop culture into the office environment, moving away from conventional neutral office aesthetics. This creative direction is evident in unexpected details such as stools shaped like tree trunks, a transparent yellow curtain repurposed from a welding workshop, and colored glass doors. These unconventional design choices deliberately reject the notion that office spaces must be bland or understated to foster creativity. Instead, they aim to create an inspiring and dynamic atmosphere that reflects the vibrant and innovative nature of the video game industry, encouraging a more playful and imaginative work environment. The comprehensive design ensures that the Montreal studio is not just a place to work, but a stimulating hub that supports collaboration, focused effort, and creative thinking. #CommercialDesign #OfficeDesign #ColorBlocking #Patriarche #GearboxMontreal #InteriorDesign #WorkplaceInnovation #MontrealArchitecture

Bronte Athearn, an interior stylist, and her partner, Jordan, moved into a 1,200-square-foot loft apartment in Los Angeles after spending six months living in a Ram Promaster van during the beginning of the pandemic. Athearn quickly realized the significant need for additional storage solutions in their new loft, as it only had one small closet and a tiny cubby. This personal experience highlighted the critical importance of efficient storage, whether in a compact mobile living space or a larger apartment. To address their storage needs and add a unique design element to their loft, Athearn conceived the idea of a 12-foot-tall, 8-foot-long bookshelf. This impressive structure was intended not only to store books but also to display various decorative objects that Athearn, whose job involves collecting numerous items for styling, had accumulated. She envisioned the bookshelf as a "showstopper" that would showcase the couple's cherished possessions and act as a central visual feature in their home. An additional benefit of the bookshelf was its ability to function as a room divider, creating a sense of separation between the living room and the bedroom area in their open-plan loft. Initially, the couple faced a substantial financial hurdle. Inquiring with friends in the construction business, they received estimates for a floor-to-ceiling shelving system ranging from $4,000 to $7,000. This high cost, largely due to increased lumber prices during the pandemic, nearly led them to abandon the project. However, Jordan's father, Mark, a seasoned contractor, was able to secure construction pine at a significantly reduced price of $9 per slab from a contact in San Diego. This fortunate connection brought their total budget for labor and materials down to just $500, making the ambitious project financially feasible. During the construction phase, Athearn designed the bookshelf to integrate seamlessly with the loft's existing architectural features, specifically the beams from the early 1900s. She planned the shelving to wrap around these beams, leaving a small walkway rather than extending it to the centermost pole. The wood pieces at the top were carefully cut to curve around the base of the ceiling beam, ensuring the structure appeared as an original part of the loft's design rather than a standalone piece of furniture. A challenge arose during installation when they discovered the old floors were slightly slanted. Mark meticulously cut each vertical piece to varying heights to compensate for this unevenness, ensuring the shelves appeared perfectly straight. Athearn opted not to paint the pine, preferring to let the raw material naturally patina and age over time. For styling, she designed each shelving nook to be 1 foot tall, allowing ample space for taller decorative items and trailing greenery, which she creatively used as a form of natural curtain. Her styling philosophy emphasized creating cohesion by grouping similar-colored objects while mixing shapes and sizes to add visual dimension. She also incorporated natural elements like rocks, branches, and leaves collected during their van travels, using them as reminders of their journey and adding a personal touch to the display. Athearn also ensured that the displayed items would look appealing from both sides of the divider. Ultimately, the 12-foot bookshelf successfully transformed their open loft into a space with a clear distinction between the living area and the bedroom, providing a much-desired sense of privacy. This division meant that while friends visiting could still crash on the couch, there was a psychological barrier preventing the bed from becoming a secondary seating area. The project not only solved their storage problem but also created a visually striking and functional element that enhanced the comfort and organization of their home, proving that thoughtful design and resourceful execution can achieve significant home improvements on a modest budget. #DIYProject #LoftLiving #BookshelfDesign #RoomDivider #HomeRenovation #InteriorStyling #BudgetFriendly #StorageSolutions #CreativeDesign

In Manhattan's dense urban landscape, the presence of expansive open spaces is often met with considerable enthusiasm. However, Manhattan-based designer Tamara Eaton highlights a common challenge associated with open floor plans: effectively managing the vastness to prevent it from resembling a disorganized collection of items. This issue arose when Eaton was commissioned to redesign a client's spacious loft. The initial state of the loft featured a massive open room with disparate seating arrangements, leaving large sections of the area underutilized. Eaton's primary objective was to infuse definition and purpose into this sprawling space while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. Her initial step involved a thorough consultation with the client to understand their daily activities and preferences, including reading, playing board games, children's playtime, and exercise. This assessment formed the foundation for developing furniture and space layouts that would cater to all the client's needs, transforming the previously underused area into functional and inviting zones. The redesign resulted in the creation of four distinct seating arrangements within the single large room. The first, and most prominent, is the formal living room, strategically positioned to capture immediate attention upon entering the loft. This area is anchored by a tufted love seat, two occasional chairs, and a daybed, all meticulously arranged around a central fireplace. To preserve the elevated ambiance of this space, the television was discreetly relocated to a corner, where a smaller-scale sectional sofa defines a cozy nook. Adjacent to the entrance, a sculptural wooden wingback chair demarcates a dedicated reading area. For dining, Eaton opted against a traditional formal setup, instead designing an upholstered banquette situated conveniently off the kitchen. This casual dining area, with its lounge-like feel, integrates seamlessly with the rest of the loft due to the consistent use of upholstery materials. To further ensure visual harmony across the different zones, Eaton adhered to a specific color palette comprising grays, greens, and lavenders throughout the entire space. Despite the overarching cohesion achieved through material and color consistency, each area retains its unique character and purpose. This distinction is primarily achieved through the selection of artful and sculptural furniture pieces, ensuring that each sitting area feels thoughtfully curated and distinct, thereby avoiding a monotonous aesthetic. #OpenSpaceDesign #FurnitureArrangement #LoftLiving #InteriorDesign #SpacePlanning #HomeDecor #ManhattanLoft #TamaraEatonDesign

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered the function of residential spaces, necessitating a heightened versatility from rooms. Living rooms frequently doubled as home offices, and home offices sometimes transformed into fitness studios or spaces for stress relief. This shift highlighted the utility of room dividers, which serve as a practical solution for redefining and segmenting these multi-functional areas within a home. Room dividers are presented as an effective tool for creating a distinct workspace, particularly in a home office setting. The act of visually separating oneself from the broader living space can enhance focus on daily tasks and provide a sense of privacy during virtual meetings or phone calls. Beyond their functional benefits, screens also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of a home. In open-plan designs, they can introduce a sense of rhythm, texture, warmth, and character. Aesthetically, these screens can also be used strategically to conceal less appealing features of a room, such as unsightly radiators, dark corners, or minor wall imperfections like peeling paint, offering a convenient and non-judgmental cover-up. The article then curates a selection of room dividers, categorized by their distinct styles and the ambiance they evoke. For enthusiasts of Georgian aesthetics, particularly those inspired by "Bridgerton," a Chinoiserie six-panel hand-decorated screen is suggested. This piece aims to infuse a vibrant, historical charm into a home. For followers of the "dark academia" trend, a mid-19th Century six-fold screen is recommended. This type of divider is envisioned as an ideal addition to a library or study, particularly one featuring oak paneling and extensive bookshelves, enhancing an intellectual and classic atmosphere. Those with an appreciation for antiques might consider an early 19th-century Dutch panel screen. This specific example, adorned with parrots and tropical birds on gilt-embossed tree boughs, is noted for its ability to add a dynamic and engaging visual element, making a home working environment more stimulating. Reflecting contemporary interior design trends, a "Japandi"-style screen is presented. This style, a fusion of Scandinavian and Japanese aesthetics, emphasizes soft minimalism. The Frama Room Divider, with its transluminescent quality, is highlighted for its ability to introduce a subtle and serene aesthetic into any room. For those drawn to Parisian elegance, a rattan screen, specifically Vivense London’s Sohomanje Natural Rattan Folding Room Divider, is suggested. Its gentle curves are noted for their capacity to bring a calming influence to a space, ideal for creating a modern salon-like atmosphere. To add a touch of glamour, the Lempicka Screen from Oka is featured. This divider is distinguished by its incorporation of small mirrors, which create a sparkling effect, making it particularly suitable for a bedroom setting where a luxurious touch is desired. For a more natural and artisanal look, especially for home office use, the Rattan Webbing Screen from Cox & Cox is recommended. Its earthy beige tones contribute to an organic aesthetic. Lastly, the Webbing Room Divider in Black from Idyll Home is presented as a versatile choice. The mesh design allows natural light to filter through while effectively minimizing distractions, offering both functionality and a contemporary visual appeal. #InteriorDesign #RoomDividers #HomeOffice #HomeDecor #InteriorInspiration #BridgertonStyle #DarkAcademia #Japandi #RattanFurniture

The increasing demand for flexible living spaces, where homes serve as centers for both work and leisure, highlights the need for innovative design solutions to create a sense of separation and balance within open-plan layouts. This article explores twelve effective strategies to zone open-plan spaces, drawing inspiration from leading interior designers. These methods range from subtle material contrasts to more pronounced structural elements, offering diverse approaches to define distinct areas without compromising the spacious feel of an open concept. One approach involves contrasting materials to delineate different zones. For instance, an apartment designed by Claude Cartier uses a combination of chequerboard and parquet flooring, along with zellige tiles and terracotta walls, to create a series of visual transitions between spaces, such as the dining area. Another flexible option is using curtains, which can either conceal or reveal areas as needed. Italian architect Cristina Celestino demonstrates this by using luxurious fabrics from Rubelli and Torri Lana to create a secluded seating zone within her studio, emphasizing both flexibility and flow. Color blocking is another powerful tool for defining boundaries and influencing mood. Paradowski Studio, for example, incorporated sheets of orange glass behind a bookshelf to create a clear separation between living areas in a Warsaw home. Beyond horizontal divisions, extending design elements upwards can also shape space. Studio Lawahl integrated a custom shelving unit into an island in a Stockholm apartment, providing a seamless extension of the kitchen while acting as a barrier between cooking and dining areas. Sliding or folding doors can introduce decorative drama while offering practical separation. Patricia Bustos's Madrid apartment features a striking stained-glass room divider as a central feature. Bookshelves, despite their modest footprint, can serve as impactful partitions when placed centrally, such as the 'Sailor' design by David Lopez Quincoces for Living Divani, which boasts a streamlined frame and flexible components for customization. Color can also frame sections of a space, as seen in an Italian studio Marcante Testa project where a custom lime plaster partition in pink defines a snug seating area, complementing a cobalt blue sofa. Furthermore, incorporating framed structures like the Crittall-style curved frame in a Stockholm home by Alexandra Ogonowski and Jesper Nybord creates a simple yet impactful threshold between areas. Oversized rugs, traditionally an afterthought, can now be central to defining zones, with designers like Stéphan Bidoux and Julien Villeneuve using them to amplify separation in home offices. Crafted details, such as the shoji sliding doors at Ace Hotel Kyoto designed by Commune Design with textile designer Akira Minagawa, offer aesthetic appeal while separating sleeping and living areas. Experimenting with structure is another method; Marcante Testa's Turin apartment uses a custom metal framework and colored glass panels to subtly section off a dining space and guide circulation. Finally, modular screens, like Patrick Norguet's 'Node' screen for Natuzzi, offer not only spatial division but also added functionalities such as soundproofing and shelving, addressing the modern need for versatile work zones. These diverse strategies collectively demonstrate how thoughtful design can enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal in open-plan living environments. #OpenPlanLiving #RoomDividers #InteriorDesign #SpaceZoning #HomeDecor #FlexibleSpaces #DesignSolutions #ArchitecturalFeatures #ResidentialDesign

The article details the creative and personalized apartment of Brooklyn-based photographer Sharon Radisch, focusing on how she transformed her 653-square-foot open studio into a dynamic and comfortable living space. Radisch's Saturday mornings involve tranquil reading sessions in her living room, where she moves between various spots to maximize natural light. Her rescue dog, Ray, named after Ray Eames, shares her calm demeanor, never causing spills on the miniature marble plinth serving as an unconventional coffee table. Radisch is a multidisciplinary artist whose creative pursuits extend beyond photography to include painting, furniture design, and exhibition installations. A significant selling point of her apartment, which she found in October 2020, was its full kitchen, a rarity in her New York living experience, alongside 39th-floor views stretching to the Verrazzano Bridge. After two years in the open studio layout, Radisch sought to introduce separation. She ingeniously crafted a room divider as a DIY project, foregoing costly contractors or furniture makers. Her process involved initially experimenting with fabric and tension poles before constructing a freestanding structure. She applied primer and two coats of 'Mediterranean Teal' paint to a sheet of lightweight corrugated PVC roofing, propping it up with stone lamp bases and poles. This specific shade of blue-green was chosen after 20 swatch tests to ensure a soothing effect. To maintain visual harmony and avoid a stark accent wall, Radisch extended this color into her bedroom nook and parts of the living room. Despite this bold color choice, she considers her style minimalist, aiming to avoid an entirely beige apartment. Radisch meticulously curated her artwork display to enhance the sense of flow within her apartment. Inspired by a Guggenheim exhibition, she strategically incorporated negative space between smaller artworks in her living room corner, even mounting one near the ceiling. This arrangement guides the eye organically upwards and around the room, counteracting a perceived horizontal line and opening up the space. Among her cherished possessions is an announcement card for Jean-Michel Basquiat’s second art show, acquired at auction, which she values deeply for its historical significance over monetary worth. Even her bedroom's plug-in pendant light is unconventionally hung with multiple cord holders, creating a zigzag pattern to add dynamism to a challenging corner, despite a minor injury during installation. Her approach to transforming an awkward space next to the kitchen, outside the bathroom and closets, exemplifies her artistic vision. She painted this area an inky black, embracing its lack of natural light, and displayed framed artworks to accentuate the contrast with white mats. A sculpture on a low side table further defines this gallery-like section. For her clinical-feeling bathroom, she introduced green paint and less precious artworks, arranged without strict symmetry, reflecting her belief that art should be ubiquitous. Throughout her apartment, Radisch demonstrates a thoughtful and creative approach to design, transforming a small open-plan space into a personalized and inspiring home filled with artistic expression and functional innovation. #InteriorDesign #StudioApartment #DIYHomeDecor #RoomDivider #SmallSpaceLiving #ArtisticHome #BrooklynApartment #ColorPalette #MinimalistStyle

This article explores a variety of room divider ideas, presenting them as a practical alternative to entirely open-plan living spaces. It emphasizes that room dividers offer numerous clever and inspiring ways to optimize a living area's functionality and aesthetic. The core concept revolves around creating a 'broken plan' layout, which represents a middle ground between completely open spaces and traditional, separated rooms. Room dividers can be implemented through various means, including screens, partitions, and the strategic placement of furniture or bookshelves. The article highlights that beyond their functional utility, room dividers can introduce elements like color, pattern, texture, and dimension into a room. They can be used purely for decorative purposes, to create an illusion of privacy, or to enhance the perception of space in smaller rooms. One suggestion is to design integrated partitions, as demonstrated by Simon Tcherniak of Neville Johnson. He advocates for utilizing unused vertical space with features like extra-tall bookcases, possibly with a ladder, or open/hidden shelves for display or storage. Another approach involves the use of classic steel frames, which offer a visually appealing way to connect rooms while maintaining a sense of separation. Chris Eaton from Stiff + Trevillion notes that glazing systems can bring natural light into areas lacking windows and can be designed with varying pane sizes and integrated doorways or casement windows. Movable screens are also discussed as a flexible option for creating cozy, confined spaces within larger rooms, as suggested by Paolo Moschino of Nicholas Haslam, who appreciates their ability to conceal and reveal spaces gradually. Decorative glazing is presented as a subtle way to zone off areas. Extending a glass partition just a short distance into a room can effectively break the open-plan flow. An example from Maddux Creative showcases a steel frame with geometric glazed panels, incorporating different types of glass (colored, fluted) and suggesting coordinating flooring to emphasize the divider's role. For brightening dim spaces, steel-framed doors are recommended, especially Crittall glazing, which allows light to flow while maintaining warmth and creating quiet zones. Investing in sliding panels offers versatility, enabling residents to close off areas when needed without compromising the room's appearance when open. The article features a London apartment with floor-to-ceiling sliding panels clad in parquet, which seamlessly integrate into the space. The panels can also conceal recessed pockets for displaying art. For larger rooms, integrating a glazed partition with a gap in the middle can effectively create two distinct zones while allowing free movement between them. An example illustrates using this for an entertainment center, complete with a blackout screen for cinematic experiences. Beyond structural elements, the article suggests using furniture to define zones, particularly in open-plan living rooms where permanent dividers may not be suitable. High-backed seating and ceiling-high bookcases are cited as effective tools for this. Lastly, hanging drapes or sheer curtains can divide a large bedroom, adding privacy, color, texture, and dimension without permanent structural changes. The article concludes by presenting central heating options, such as positioning a freestanding woodburning stove, as a way to connect different zones while adding warmth and a design feature. #RoomDividers #InteriorDesign #SpacePlanning #BrokenPlanLiving #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalFeatures #GlazingSystems #FurnitureArrangement

This article highlights six distinctive home bar designs created by local designers in New England, showcasing innovative solutions for incorporating stylish and functional bar areas into various home settings. Each design emphasizes both aesthetics and practicality, ranging from concealed units to open, statement-making installations. The first example, a Seaport penthouse by Planeta Design Group, features a bar area that is ingeniously hidden behind wall panels. These panels lift to reveal a bar equipped with an illuminated onyx slab and mirror-polished stainless steel, suitable for both cocktail and tea service. The space, which can be privatized by Shoji-inspired sliding doors, includes heated limestone floors, cove lights, and a cast-glass table, offering a warm and intimate contrast to the apartment's more open areas. Kelly McGuill Home transformed an unused storage space under the stairs of a 19th-century Portsmouth home into a modern bar. This renovation utilized low-maintenance quartz countertops designed to mimic Carrara marble and a white subway-tile backsplash with gray grout, complementing the home's bright interior and the countertop's veining. Koo de Kir Architectural Interiors designed a wet bar for a South End townhouse as part of a gut renovation. The key feature of this bar is its ability to be concealed when not in use, achieved through pocket doors. The design incorporates white-oak cabinetry for glassware storage and below-counter units for a refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, and additional storage. Nina Farmer Interiors introduced a wet bar into a renovated Colonial in Brookline, positioned off the dining room. The design team selected mocha-hued cabinets to harmonize with the striking Cipollino Fantastico marble countertop sourced from Cumar, creating a sophisticated and cohesive look. Andra Birkerts Design created a dazzling bar area off the living room in a Chestnut Hill home. To make the space a focal point and attract guests, the design incorporated gleaming, mirrored mosaic tiling and a collection of decorative Tom Dixon pendant lights, emphasizing a sense of specialness and allure. Lastly, Justine Sterling designed a compact bar within a deeply recessed niche in the dining room of a Queen Anne Victorian. This solution maximizes an otherwise unused space, featuring mounted cabinets with glass doors for barware, which also allows a glimpse of the Farrow & Ball wallcovering, adding depth. White cabinets beneath the counter offer additional storage and house a small refrigerator. Each project demonstrates a thoughtful approach to integrating home bar areas that cater to diverse aesthetic preferences and functional requirements, from concealed, intimate spaces to openly luxurious and inviting setups, enhancing the entertaining capabilities and overall design of the residences. #HomeBarDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #SpaceUtilization #ModernRenovation #HiddenBar #EntertainingSpaces #DesignInspiration

The article presents various innovative room divider ideas for studio apartments and open-plan homes, emphasizing the importance of creating private spaces without constructing permanent walls. It suggests both simple and more involved solutions, catering to different needs and skill levels. One featured idea is the Headboard-Slash-Closet Room Divider, demonstrated by Leanne Kilroy's London bedroom design. Kilroy integrated a freestanding wardrobe that serves as both a headboard and a pathway, allowing circular circulation. This design addresses the issue of gloomy corners and offers practical shortcuts for a busy parent, making the space feel more open and functional. Another approach involves using Multi-Room Dividers, as showcased in Grace Lee-Lim's L.A. living room. She successfully divided a large living space into three distinct zones—a formal seating area, a fireplace lounge, and a private office—using a cane screen and object-filled shelving units, without the need for drywall. The Bedroom Curtain Divider is highlighted as an easy way to transform a studio into a one-bedroom. Megan Grehl's design utilizes sheer linen curtains on a curved ceiling track to conceal the sleeping area, providing both privacy and an airy feel. Similarly, the Tented Room Divider, implemented by Sophie Rowell for an English treehouse, uses colorful patchwork drapes to create a dramatic and whimsical entry to the primary bedroom. For a more robust separation, the Glass Room Divider is presented, drawing inspiration from a Parisian-style loft. A 14-foot glass and steel partition divides the living and sleeping areas, maintaining an open atmosphere while semi-sheer curtains offer adjustable privacy. The Built-in-Bed Room Divider addresses space constraints in small studios, like Brett James's 442-square-foot apartment, where a built-in headboard creates a designated sleeping nook. The Fringe Curtain Room Divider, seen in a Kansas City rental, uses a ceiling-mounted bamboo curtain to separate the dining area and kitchen. This method offers a stylish alternative to traditional beaded curtains, preserving the open feel of the floor plan. The Lengthy Sofa Room Divider is a practical solution for studio apartments, where a large couch can effectively delineate living and sleeping zones. The "Frigloo" Room Divider is a creative solution for open-concept homes, where a custom-built arched structure houses a refrigerator while providing a decorative display space for a record collection on the opposite side. This design effectively breaks up the space and conceals appliances. The Perforated Screen Room Divider is ideal for small spaces, allowing natural light to filter through while separating areas like a breakfast nook from stair traffic. The Breeze Blocks Room Divider, made from stacked see-through cinder blocks, creates a visual separation between a living room and kitchen, casting geometric shadows and adding a stylish element. The Step Bookcase Room Divider doubles as storage and a subtle partition, disguising a bed area while maintaining an open feel. The TV Stand Room Divider, featuring a remote-controlled lift to conceal a flat-screen, cleverly separates living and dining areas when the TV is raised. For a more natural approach, the Large Leafy Plants Room Divider uses tall greenery and a butterfly chair to delineate sleeping spaces in a studio. The Built-In Shelves Room Divider offers a permanent, floor-to-ceiling partition for long-term residents. Lastly, the Café Curtains Room Divider provides a simple and effective way to separate a kitchen from other areas, blocking cooking smells while maintaining connection. Domino editors suggest bookshelves and lengthy sofas as favorite options for room division, and also discuss DIY possibilities like hanging textiles or creating movable walls. #RoomDividers #SmallSpaces #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #StudioApartment #OpenConcept #PrivacySolutions #DIYHome

Laurence Leenaert, the founder of the whimsical brand LRNCE, encountered a challenge in her new studio located in the Sidi Ghanem neighborhood of Marrakech. Despite its generous size and abundant natural light—a rarity in Moroccan architecture—the studio lacked sufficient wall space to properly display her handcrafted blankets and rugs. This presented a significant obstacle for an artist whose work involves textiles and a need for effective presentation. Instead of viewing this as a limitation, Leenaert conceived an innovative solution to both display her creations and maximize the utility of her open-plan workspace. Her ingenious approach involved installing metal hooks around the perimeter of the ceiling and extending into the central area of the studio. These custom-made, round black metal hooks were designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, allowing for the simple and clean showcasing of her tapestries. The use of textiles to fill the room also imparted a sense of warmth and coziness, enhancing the overall ambiance of the studio. This method not only addressed the display problem but also offered a flexible system, crucial for an artist who frequently transitions between different creative projects, such as clothing collections and ceramic painting. The system's flexibility is a key advantage. It enables Leenaert to easily move and rearrange her work, a necessary feature for photographing pieces before listing them on her website. For individuals residing in open-plan living spaces, this method offers a clever and practical alternative to conventional room dividers. Unlike solid partitions, a suspended divider keeps the floor clear, contributing to an impression of greater space and openness. It also serves as an opportunity for decorative expression, allowing occupants to showcase cherished fabrics, artwork, or even greenery, such as macramé planters, at varying heights. Leenaert's specific design involved running wood poles between the metal hooks. These poles provide a structure from which she can drape her woven items or hang an assortment of macramé planters. The custom nature of the black metal hooks ensures they integrate seamlessly with the studio's aesthetic, while the functionality they provide is paramount for her workflow. The concept can be easily adapted by others who wish to implement a similar display or room division strategy, requiring only a creative item to be showcased. This approach not only solves a practical problem but also adds a unique and personalized element to an interior space. #RoomDivider #CreativeSolutions #StudioDesign #TextileDisplay #OpenPlanLiving #InteriorDesign #DIYHomeDecor #MarrakechStudio

The increasing need for defining spaces, particularly in smaller residences or during periods requiring adaptable home environments like self-quarantine, has made room dividers an essential element in interior design. This article compiles insights from nine interior designers, offering a comprehensive guide to selecting room dividers that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The discussion highlights various categories of room dividers, including bookcases, screens, and curtains, along with creative furniture alternatives. Bookcases are presented as versatile room dividers that offer dual functionality by providing separation and additional storage. Designers like Challene Green of Decorist recommend étagère-style pieces for open-concept living rooms, emphasizing their ability to add depth and interest. Molly Kidd from Light and Dwell suggests modular shelving systems, such as the Menu Stick System, for their innovative and minimalist design, allowing for customization to fit specific spaces. Anna Tatsioni of Decorilla points out that visually engaging bookcases can serve as focal points without overtly signaling their divider purpose, citing the Crate & Barrel Austin Room Divider as an example. Other recommended bookshelves include the McGee & Co. Jude Bookshelf, noted for its industrial-traditional blend, the Tema Dublin High Bookcase praised by Kate Spiro for its adaptability across styles, the Casey Lurie Contemporary Shelving Room Divider for its high-end design, and the budget-friendly Ikea Kallax Shelf Unit. Screens are identified as a classic method for dividing rooms, with James Farmer appreciating their traditional charm seen in English interiors. Challene Green suggests linen upholstered accordion screens for discreetly sectioning off areas like kitchens or home offices. Megan Wright of Decorist highlights the Slatted Screen Room Divider for its artistic quality and ability to provide privacy while still allowing light flow. Christopher Stevens, an interior designer, advocates for vintage mashrabiya (latticework) screens, inspired by Middle Eastern architecture, for their privacy and light-filtering properties, also recommending a more affordable replica. Sasha Bikoff introduces the Prof Shade Screen With Mirror and Coat Hanger as a statement piece that evokes nostalgia and offers practical features for creating a dressing area. Curtains are also highly recommended for their flexibility and effectiveness in allocating space. James Farmer notes the long-standing use of drapery for this purpose. Challene Green recommends the RoomDividersNow Tension Rod Room Divider Kit for its ease of installation and range of options, while Molly Kidd suggests linen curtains for a lighter aesthetic, such as those from CB2. The article concludes by encouraging creative use of existing furniture for room division. Megan Wright proposes using a clothing rack to separate spaces, particularly between bedrooms and living areas, allowing for display of items. Kate Spiro recommends low benches for creating separate play areas for children, highlighting their ability to maintain clear sight lines for supervision and often offering integrated storage solutions. #InteriorDesign #RoomDividers #HomeDecor #SmallSpaceLiving #Furniture #HomeOffice #SpacePlanning #DesignTips

This article highlights the versatility and aesthetic appeal of room dividers as a practical solution for maximizing space and creating privacy in various living environments, particularly open-plan homes and studio apartments. It emphasizes that room dividers have evolved beyond mere functional items to become significant fashion statements in interior design. The discussion points out their utility in establishing a distinct living area where one might not inherently exist, and in filling large, empty spaces effectively. Beyond traditional panel designs, the article explores creative DIY options, such as using a large bookshelf as a divider, which serves the dual purpose of displaying books and segmenting a room. A key benefit mentioned is the ability to easily create a home office, a particularly relevant feature for individuals working remotely. The article then transitions into a curated list of 17 room dividers, categorizing them from traditional and practical to modern and Instagram-worthy. Each recommendation includes a brief description of its unique features and potential uses. For instance, the murando wood grid room divider is praised for its Scandi-style semi-sheer panels that provide coziness and serve as an ideal backdrop for video calls. The Maison Du Monde Black Metal and Corn Fibre Cut Out Room Divider is noted for its modern, industrial aesthetic, functioning more as a statement piece than a privacy screen. Further examples include the French Connection Longitude Panelled Screen, recognized for its timeless rustic appeal and practicality, capable of being stored flat and used as a sun shield. The Hartleys Japanese Style Folding Wooden Room Divider is highlighted for its authentic Shoji door inspiration, allowing light while ensuring privacy, and offering a unique lighting solution when wrapped around a floor lamp. The HOMIDEA VENUS Bookcase doubles as a quirky storage solution and room separator, adding a 70s vintage touch. The list continues with diverse options such as a handmade wicker room divider for a cottagecore aesthetic, the west elm Zane Wide Shelving Unit for industrial yet chic storage, and the Y-Step Wooden Hanging Room Divider Screen for larger spaces, designed to transform a room into a cozy hotel suite. Other creative suggestions include string curtains for a boho decorative touch and PONY DANCE Privacy Curtain Partitions, ideal for studio apartment dwellers seeking enhanced privacy. Unique and stylish choices like the Maisons Du Monde Black Metal and Mirror Room Divider are presented for their multi-purpose functionality and modern elegance. The eBay Black Chic 4 Panel Wooden Slat Room Divider Shelves offer both privacy and display space, while the IKEA Shelving Unit provides a clean, simple way to segment lounge areas for home offices. The eBay Photo Wall Room Divider allows for personalized decor, and natural willow or bamboo screens are suggested for adding textured, zen-like elements to minimal decor. Finally, the Maisons Du Monde Gold Metal Leaf Room Divider is recommended for adding a sophisticated statement to plain, beige rooms, blending traditional feel with an upscale look. The article concludes by presenting a comprehensive range of choices suitable for various aesthetic preferences and functional needs. #RoomDividers #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #SpaceMaximization #HomeOffice #PrivacySolutions #InteriorStyling #DIYHomeDecor #Furniture

Open-concept floor plans, while offering a sense of spaciousness and brightness, often present challenges related to privacy and defining distinct areas within a home. The article explores a variety of creative and practical room divider ideas, ranging from temporary solutions to permanent architectural features, to address these issues. These dividers can effectively transform an open space, creating the illusion of separate rooms and adding character. Various materials and designs are presented as potential room dividers. Wooden slats, for instance, can be installed vertically to create a subtle separation between spaces, such as a staircase and a living room. The spacing of these slats can be adjusted to control the degree of transparency. Glass partitions offer another elegant solution, providing a visual separation while maintaining a seamless flow and allowing natural light to pass through. These can be full-height or integrated into half-walls, offering both connection and division. Decorative glass partitions with geometric designs can also serve as an artistic element, as demonstrated in a modern interior separating a wet bar. For those seeking DIY options, the article suggests several ideas. Macramé dividers, crafted from cotton cord and wooden dowels, can partially enclose a home office, adding a playful and personalized touch. Similarly, plain rattan or bamboo screens can be customized by weaving colorful yarns through their slots, creating unique visual interest. Curtains can also be effectively used as a flexible and soft room divider, particularly in railroad-style apartments, to delineate a private sleeping area. Another DIY project involves building modern wood slats using 2' x 4' boards, with adjustable spacing to suit different needs. Beyond functional separation, room dividers can act as significant design statements. Antique screens, Japanese shoji screens, and artful glass partitions are examples of how dividers can elevate a room's aesthetic. Rattan screens can introduce warmth and texture, while black wood slats can create a striking contrast in a bright living room, and even conceal hidden doors. Tinted glass partitions, extending from floor to ceiling, can define hallways and prevent furniture from appearing to float in an undefined space. Freestanding, double-sided fireplaces offer a functional and visually appealing way to separate rooms while adding warmth and elegance. The article further highlights the versatility of room dividers by suggesting their use in specific contexts. A decorative screen can transform an empty bedroom corner into a private dressing area. A wood room divider placed behind a bed can serve as a sophisticated headboard, particularly useful in studio apartments where the bed needs to stand out. Artists can even deconstruct room dividers into panels to frame artwork, adding a postmodern vibe. Intricately carved folding screens can act as makeshift doors, imparting an elevated and bespoke feel to a living room. Other suggestions include using paper dividers for a boho aesthetic, integrating patterns and textures, and incorporating abstract elements inspired by surrealist art. Statement screens can also be used to blend different design influences, such as Danish Modern and traditional Southwestern styles in a California ranch home. Even a small wooden screen can make a significant impact in a tranquil sitting room, proving that effective room division doesn't always require large structures. Overall, the article emphasizes that strategic placement and creative design of room dividers can maximize space, enhance privacy, and introduce unique aesthetic elements, catering to various home styles and needs. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #RoomDividers #SpaceMaximization #DIYHomeDecor #OpenConceptLiving #DesignInspiration #ArchitecturalFeatures

This article details the challenges and solutions for decorating open-plan living spaces, particularly focusing on a loft apartment in the Bridge Square Lofts in Rochester's Cascade District. Alyssa Shumway, a 25-year-old resident who moved from the suburbs to embrace city life and loft living, shares her experience and decorating choices. She aimed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in her open-concept unit, despite the inherent starkness often associated with lofts due to high ceilings and large windows. Shumway opted for a transitional style, blending contemporary aesthetics with personal touches like candles and framed photos, rather than a strictly contemporary look. The article also features expert advice from interior designer Janis Reed, offering practical tips for furnishing and decorating open floor plans, which are becoming increasingly common in both new constructions and renovated suburban homes. Reed emphasizes the importance of considering the scale of the space, suggesting that large art pieces might be more suitable for rooms with high ceilings. For defining different living areas within an open plan, Reed recommends using area rugs and substantial furniture such as armoires or large sofas. She explains that rugs should be sufficiently sized to encompass the entire furniture grouping to clearly delineate a specific zone. Storage is often a concern in loft living, and Reed advises selecting multi-functional furniture, like ottomans with built-in storage or platform beds with drawers, to maximize space efficiency. To introduce coziness into expansive, open areas, Reed suggests incorporating warm colors, varied textures, and natural materials. Fluffy pillows and wall hangings can also contribute to a more inviting ambiance. She highlights the importance of layered lighting from multiple sources, such as floor lamps and suspended ceiling lights, to enhance warmth and depth. Shumway’s approach includes mixing vintage finds from thrift shops with new purchases, resulting in a rustic living room and a bedroom accented with ethnic-inspired pops of color. As a renter, she employs peel-off wall decals for decoration, such as an inspirational quote in her living room. Finally, Reed addresses the issue of clutter management in open spaces, advising residents to carefully curate their belongings and display only a few cherished items to maintain a clean and uncluttered look. Shumway echoes this sentiment, stressing the need for careful editing of possessions, especially given the compact size of her unit, to avoid an overwhelming appearance. #LoftDecorating #OpenFloorPlan #InteriorDesign #HomeDecorating #SpacePlanning #TransitionalStyle #SmallSpaceSolutions