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Besides Curtains & Room Dividers What Other Ways Can Be Used to Divide a Small Space?

Small rooms can present many decorating dilemmas, from the best way to fit all your pieces to the most functional arrangement for living. If you're outfitting a limited area for multiple purposes, this task can get even trickier. Arranging furniture to serve as dividers can help to clearly designate each part of the room for a distinct activity.
  1. Shelving

    • Shelves are key pieces in a small space as they provide ample storage as well as a decorative accent. Shelving that's open on both sides works well for a divider because the contents are accessible from either side while the pieces on the shelves form a kind of barrier. Shelves with a solid back can be arranged in two ways. The back of the shelves can serve as a solid wall to one part of the room, or a second set of shelves can be placed back to back with the first. When using this type of divider, know that shelves are good for more than just books. Plates and cups can be stored decoratively on open shelving in a kitchen or dining area. Colorful blankets, decorative storage baskets and scented candles will dress up a bedroom space.

    Wardrobe

    • If you're separating a bedroom from a living area in a space such as a studio apartment, a large wardrobe may be just the piece you need to set up a functional divider. Long, sturdy standalone clothing storage pieces will serve as a closet on one side and a wall on the other. If the back side of the wardrobe is less than attractive, hang wallpaper, a poster or a lightweight tapestry over the back.

    Headboard

    • A tall headboard makes a striking room divider in a small space. While your first instinct may be to set the head of the bed against the wall, arranging it in the center of the space may be more practical for dividing the room. Position a loveseat or chair with the back of the seating area against the backside of the headboard to encourage visitors to sit facing away from the separated area of the room, further distinguishing one space from the other.

    Mirrors

    • Mirrors are ideal pieces of decor for small spaces as their reflective surfaces typically make the space seem bigger. If possible, set the mirrors up to face a window so they will reflect and enhance the natural light. A divider made of three or four freestanding mirrors will be a striking addition to any small space. If the stability of the standing mirrors is a concern, arrange a large sturdy piece of furniture such as a worktable or couch on the opposite side of the wall of mirrors.