With a simple screen, shelf, or curtain, you can divide rooms into sections based on function or create privacy within an open floor plan. Room dividers allow you to carve out a bedroom in a studio apartment or create a separate home office in a large living room. And if you have kids or roommates, a room divider can provide a visual signal that you need some alone time, whether for work or stress relief. When the divider is up, your household knows that you’re not to be disturbed. In addition to offering privacy, room dividers create a distinction between work and the rest of your day. When the workday is over, you can take down the screen or push back the curtain to signal that it’s time to log out and focus on family, relaxation, or whatever your evening entails. Completing this physical action makes the transition feel more concrete. When shopping for a room divider, consider whether you need a semi-permanent solution, like for establishing a bedroom or dining area, or one you can easily set up and take down as needed. Many room dividers feature hinged panels that you can fold up for flat storage. If blocking views, light, or sound are your primary concerns, choose a solid divider rather than a see-through screen, or consider hanging floor-to-ceiling curtains that can more effectively close off the space. Check out these 8 room dividers to section off your space in style. Buy It: Ria Room Divider Screen ($305, Urban Outfitters) Buy It: Mistana Alex Shoji 6 Panel Room Divider ($264, Wayfair) Buy It: KALLAX Shelf Unit($200, IKEA) Buy It: Aiden Lane Merbrook Woven Room Divider ($410, Target)
