Do you live in a studio apartment? Or do you have a big bedroom that you’d want to convert into two? Whatever the reason, there are multiple ways that you can divide a single room into two.
Maybe you’re looking to have a separate lounging area in your room. Or maybe your home has a limited number of bedrooms, and you want to make the most out of it. It is possible to make segregated spaces from within your current space.
In this article, we are going to list down different and creative ways that you can use for dividing a bedroom into two.
Determine the Purpose of the Separate Spaces
Before dividing your bedroom into two separate spaces, it’s essential to identify the purpose behind this change.
Here are some common reasons for creating separate spaces within a single room:
- Workspace: If you need a dedicated area for work or study, creating a separate workspace in your bedroom can help improve focus and productivity.
- Nursery: For growing families, dividing a bedroom to accommodate a nursery can be an effective solution without moving to a larger home.
- Separate sleeping areas: Couples, siblings, roommates or guests may desire their own space for sleeping, providing privacy and personal space.
When determining the purpose of the separate spaces, consider the functionality and furniture placement.
Each new area should be designed with specific functions in mind, ensuring that all needs are met.
To get started, follow these steps:
- Identify the functions: List all the activities you want to accommodate within the divided bedroom, such as sleeping, working, or relaxation. This will help you identify the type of furniture, storage solutions, and overall layout required.
- Consider furniture placement: Determine the ideal positioning for each piece of furniture. For instance, a desk should be placed near a window for natural light, while a bed should be oriented away from the door for privacy.
- Allocate space strategically: Ensure each separate space has enough room for its intended function and consider the flow of movement. For example, placing a wardrobe between the sleeping and working areas creates a natural division that also increases functionality.
- Incorporate functional storage solutions: Don’t forget about storage needs, like shelves, drawers, or cabinets for both sleeping and workspace areas. This will help keep the room organized and clutter-free.
Once you establish the purpose of the separate spaces and consider the functionality and furniture placement, you can move forward to dividing the bedroom effectively and creating a comfortable, practical environment for all occupants.
Evaluating the Space and Room Layout
Before diving into the process of dividing your bedroom into two rooms, it’s crucial to evaluate the space and layout of the room.
This will help you determine the best possible solutions for creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing divided space.
Start by measuring the total square footage of your bedroom. Knowing the exact size will give you a better idea of whether the room is spacious enough to accommodate two separate areas comfortably.
It’s essential to ensure that both newly created spaces have adequate room for their intended purposes, whether it’s a sleeping area, a home office, or a dressing room.
Next, consider the existing layout and the placement of doors, windows, and electrical outlets. This information will help you to plan an efficient division of the space while maintaining accessibility and functionality.
Take note of any obstacles in the space, such as radiators, built-in wardrobes, or other permanent fixtures. These elements may affect the feasibility of certain bedroom layout ideas.
Now let’s learn more dividing methods in further detail below!
1. Divide the Room with Hanging Curtains
One of the easiest and creative ways of dividing a bedroom into two is by using hanging curtains as partitions.
If your room doesn’t allow space for the installation of doors or foldable partitions, then the best way to go about it is to use curtains.
Curtains don’t take up a lot of space and make your rooms feel wider. Using fabric as a partition allows a lot of room for creativity. You can find a variety of colors that go with your room décor or wall color. You can also use curtains with creative prints to make them look more aesthetic.
2. Install a Decorative Screen
If curtains aren’t your cup of tea, then you can invest in a light decorative screen. You can place the screen from where you want to separate the room into two.
Consider buying a screen with intricate carvings or other creative designs to add a touch of elegance.
Metal or other contemporary screen designs act as walls and convert your bedroom into two. Moreover, they add character to your room with their different designs.
Decorative screens allow privacy between the two rooms and make the spaces feel completely separated even without the presence of a permanent wall.
3. Use a Sliding Barn Door
If you’re feeling experimental, then you can even build your own sliding barn door. If you have time, then a DIY project for a barn door is possible.
Barn doors do not require a permit, and you don’t even need a contractor as they are very DIY-friendly.
Using a sliding barn door is an excellent way of dividing a bedroom into two rooms. The doors are moveable, so if you ever feel like merging the two rooms again, you can easily do it.
Barn doors are ideal as temporary partitions. They also offer privacy and complete separation between the two rooms.
4. Add a Metal Room Divider
We recommend using a metal divider in the center of your bedroom to divide it into two smaller rooms. Meta dividers separate the space into two while also giving it a modern and stylish edge.
This metal addition not only serves as a divider but also serves as a beautiful contemporary décor piece for both rooms.
Make sure that you select a thin screen of metal, so it doesn’t feel overwhelming or take up too much space.
You don’t necessarily have to pick a bold design; even something simple could do the job just fine.
5. Use a Shelving Unit
Investing in a basic shelving unit is another way of creating a partition that turns a single room into two separated spaces.
This method of partition is multifunctional; it not only divides your room but also offers space for the storage and display of your belongings.
You can get an open or closed shelf based on your preferences. An open shelf allows you to display décor and other showpieces on it. A closed shelf offers space for the storage of your essential and accessory items.
With a large shelving unit, you can maximize the use of your space while also creating two rooms from one. It allows you to create a separate and private unit within your bedroom.
6. Add Glass Partitions
If you want to create a partition without blocking access to good light and volume, then glass doors are ideal. They let you feel the same sense of space even when you have created a division.
You can install a sliding glass door that runs from the floor to the ceiling of your room.
This way, you will have a separation without compromising on your visuals. Sliding doors also give you the option to draw and remove the partition anytime you want.
If you need more privacy, you can hang curtains along with the door. Overall, sliding glass doors are a great of creating a getaway space within your bedroom.
7. Use a Sculptural Accent
If you are a fan of modern art and like your rooms to have an artistic touch, then installing a sculptural accent will do the trick.
You can use pretty much anything as a partition to form two rooms. However, it needs to be big enough to create a sense of separation and privacy.
When placed right, a sculptural accent not only divides a bedroom into two but also adds beauty and décor to each side. Make sure you choose a piece that reflects the character of the room and its occupants.
Choose something that’s multifunctional so you can use it for other purposes as well.
8. Divide the Room with a Bookshelf
Bookshelves are another great divider; you can place a large bookshelf in the middle of your bedroom to separate it into two individual spaces.
Bookshelves are large and provide a sense of privacy and segregation. Moreover, you can display your collection of favorite books on it.
Even if you’re not a bookworm, bookshelves add an aesthetic and vintage touch to your living space. They are a highly creative way of dividing a big bedroom.
9. Use furniture as a partition.
You can also use big furniture pieces in a way that creates a division in your bedroom. In most cases, you can use the furniture you already have and arrange it in a way that divides the room.
If you have folding barn doors or a large shelf, you can move them to the center of the room to create a division.
If you’re just looking for a subtle separation, you can even arrange couches or bar tables in a way that creates a sense of separation and privacy between the bed and the lounging space.
By placing rugs in different areas, you can zone the bedroom, indicating the purpose of each space.
10. Install hanging beads or other wall hangings
If your room already has separation but lacks a door, then you can simply install hanging beads to complete the division. You can also use curtains to cover the door.
If you have the budget for a DIY project, you can even install a sliding door at the doorway.
11. Use elevation
Another creative way of splitting a room is to use its elevation instead of space on the ground. You don’t always have to use dividers and partition screens to split rooms; you can also do it by making functional levels vertically.
If it’s a bedroom for kids, you can create their playing space by adding elevation above their beds.
However, make sure you only do this for kids who are old enough to safely climb up levels. You can use a bed hoisted onto an elevated surface. This way you’ll have an upper-level room and a lower level one.
12. Add an accordion door
Accordion doors are excellent at creating separations between spaces.
They are easily moveable, and you can undo the division any time you like.
Accordion doors also add an aesthetic touch to your rooms with their intricate and seamless design.
13. Install a temporary half wall
If you are feeling experimental and have the budget, then you can invest your time and resources into building a temporary half wall.
If you live in a rental apartment, then these walls are ideal because you can’t install a permanent separation without prior permission.
Design Considerations
When dividing a bedroom into two spaces, it is essential to consider aspects like paint, lighting, windows, and closets.
These elements play a crucial role in creating two distinct areas while maintaining a seamless flow throughout the room.
First, pay attention to your color palette. Using different paint colors or wallpaper designs can help emphasize the separation between the two spaces.
An accent wall is another excellent way to visually divide the room.
Next, think about lighting. Each area should have its own light source, depending on its function.
For instance, a workspace might benefit from a desk lamp, while a seating area needs cozy ambient lighting. Consider installing separate switches for each section’s lights.
Windows and bay windows also impact your room’s division. Curtains or blinds can be used to create a partition or highlight a particular space.
A window or bay window can be transformed into a seating area to provide a bonus nook within the bedroom.
Incorporate rugs and distinct flooring to further separate the two zones. Strategically placing rugs or using different flooring materials will visually define the individual areas.
This technique also allows you to experiment with different textures and styles.
Lastly, consider the role of closets. A built-in closet can act as a divider if positioned thoughtfully. Alternatively, freestanding wardrobes or shelving units can be placed back-to-back to create a separation.
Remember that while dividing a bedroom into two spaces, maintaining a cohesive design throughout the room is just as important.
Choose a color palette, lighting, and design elements that compliment each other, making sure the two sections still feel like part of a complete and thoughtfully designed room.
Storing and Organizing
Let’s discuss some furniture and storage options you can use to maximize your space.
Closets are fundamental for storing clothes and accessories. If your bedroom lacks a built-in closet, there are alternatives you can consider.
For instance, utilizing a makeshift closet or investing in a freestanding wardrobe can provide plenty of storage without taking up too much space.
Clothing racks are another excellent choice when you want to save space while still keeping your items accessible. You can find racks of different styles and sizes to match your room’s décor.
Consider placing the rack in a corner or against a wall to create a designated dressing area within one of the divided spaces.
Shelving units are versatile storage options that can fit in smaller rooms or be used as a room divider. You can store books, decorative items, or even desk accessories if one of the spaces functions as a workspace.
Look for multifunctional shelving units that serve double duty as a divider and storage solution.
Dressers come in various sizes and designs to accommodate your storage needs. Opt for a compact dresser if you have limited space or a larger one if you need additional storage.
When selecting furniture, consider multifunctional pieces like sofa beds or storage benches. These types of furniture not only provide additional storage but also save on valuable floor space.
By thoughtfully organizing your furniture, you can transform a single bedroom into two functional spaces tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I separate a room for siblings without walls?
You can easily separate a room for siblings without the need for construction or walls. One option is to use room dividers such as curtains, shelves, or folding screens.
Another idea is to arrange furniture strategically to create separate zones for each sibling. Using different rugs and colors can also help visually divide the space.
What are some effective ways to split a large bedroom?
Splitting a large bedroom can increase its functionality and make it serve multiple purposes. Some effective ways to do this include:
- Using color blocking on walls to visually divide the space
- Creating a niche bed area for added privacy
- Placing rugs strategically to zone the bedroom
- Incorporating a home library to separate a sleeping area from a living space
What furniture arrangements can help divide a room?
Furniture arrangement plays an essential role in dividing a room effectively. Here are some ideas that can help:
- Place a bookshelf or storage unit in the middle of the room
- Arrange beds or seating areas at opposite ends of the room
- Use a desk or long table to create separate workspaces
- Anchor each area with a rug to establish individual zones
How can I transform a living room into two separate areas?
You can transform a living room into two separate areas by:
- Using furniture, such as sofas, armchairs, or tables, to create physical barriers
- Defining separate zones with area rugs
- Incorporating different lighting options for each space
- Arranging furniture to face away from each other, promoting privacy and separation
What are some cost-effective methods to divide a bedroom?
Dividing a bedroom on a budget is possible with these cost-effective methods:
- Hang curtains or drapery from ceiling-mounted tracks
- Use a folding screen or an open bookshelf as a room divider
- Repurpose existing furniture, such as dressers or desks, to serve as a divider
- DIY a room divider using inexpensive materials like PVC pipes or wooden crates
What is the simplest way to create a room divider without construction?
The simplest way to create a room divider without construction is by using a freestanding divider, such as a folding screen, curtain on a track, or an open bookcase. These options provide flexibility and can be easily moved or removed, making them ideal for renters or temporary situations.
Final Thoughts
Not everyone can afford to live in big houses with several rooms, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have privacy.
By using these creative methods, you can divide a big bedroom into two smaller rooms easily.
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