How to Divide a Long Wall

Painting

• 1

  Mark the wall with painter's tape where you want the division lines positioned. Keep the décor uniform by selecting paint colors for each section which coordinate with the colors already present. For instance, if the wall runs from the living room to the dining room and the primary colors for the rooms are blue, brown and gold, then the paint colors may include shades of brown for one section and shades of gold for the other.

• 2

  Cover the work area with newspapers or a dropcloth. Tape off the molding or other features to protect them from paint drops. Use the brush to cut in around outlets and molding. Paint one section with the paint roller and allow it to dry completely.

• 3

  Remove the tape that marks the dividing line between the wall sections. Apply a second tape line that marks the next section so there is a clean line between the paint colors when you are done with the project.

• 4

  Paint the next section in the same manner. Allow the paint to dry and remove the painter's tape from the wall.

Decorative Divisions

• 5

  Install a swing-arm curtain rod where you want the wall divided. Choose a rod that matches the curtain rods already present. Hang the rod at the same height as the other curtain rods.

• 6

  Get a curtain or fabric that matches the décor or the other curtains in the room. Make certain the curtain flows from the floor to the same height as the other curtains.

• 7

  Hang the decorative curtain perpendicular to the wall. Use a tieback to hold the curtain in place and allow the curtain to swing out toward the room.

Furniture Placement

• 8

  Divide the long wall into sections with strategic furniture placement. For instance, if the wall runs from open room to room, place a sofa or love seat perpendicular to the wall.

• 9

  Create seating areas along the wall with chairs or other furniture. Give the illusion of a separate living area by hanging décor groupings on the wall in a color that matches the furniture. As an example, place a dinette table against the wall and hang framed herbal prints or other dinner-related art.

• 10

  Use a folding decorative screen, if the room is wide enough to support the visual impact. A short bookcase, placed perpendicular to the wall, also divides the space. The low height of the bookcase allows you to look into the entire area but still keeps the wall sectioned.