As we move towards a new year, expect to see an unprecedented resurgence of partitioned spaces within homes. This design trend offers a satisfying blend of privacy and openness, creating distinct zones within a single room. But what are the best ways to divide rooms? And which room partition ideas are in style right now?
Why Partitioned Spaces Are Trending
Partitioned spaces are areas that are divided into smaller sections using partitions (room dividers, folding doors, wall panels or strategically placed furniture). Ideal for significantly improving productivity and relaxation.
Partitions help to create distinct environments for different purposes. Think: home offices, quiet reading nooks or laidback kitchen diners that lead out to a garden filled with twinkling lights and a fire pit.
In fact, a partitioned kitchen (as opposed to an open-plan kitchen) is set to become one of the top interior design trends for 2025.
Enhanced Functionality
Partitioned spaces allow for dedicated zones for activities, such as a cosy play area for little ones or a hidden spot to hunker down with feelgood movies and plentiful snacks.
Increased Privacy
By dividing a large, open space, you can establish more intimate and private areas, perfect for relaxed downtime, focused remote working or a study session.
Aesthetic Appeal
Partitions take the eyes on a journey by bringing depth to a room. They can be used to create unique architectural features and showcase personal style.
Open Plan Living vs. Partitioned Spaces
The reactivated appetite for partitioned spaces offers a refreshing alternative to the open-plan concept which has been the standard for almost two decades.
While open-plan layouts have been popular for their aspirational aesthetic and communal feel, partitioned spaces provide a balance between more extroverted pursuits and inner peacefulness.
By creating distinct zones within a room, partitioned rooms enhance usability, reduce noise distractions and offer more personalised spaces for work, relaxation or hobbies.
Airy open-plan layouts may be ideal for social gatherings or collaborative work environments, but it’s partitioned spaces which better cater to the growing need for quiet, focused tasks and the option to retreat into comfort.
How to Divide a Room into Two Spaces
To visually divide a room into two distinct spaces, consider investing in best value doors that can offer contrasting designs.
For example, pair a sleek, minimalist sliding door with a classic, panelled door. The sliding door forms an open feel, while hinged doors add a traditional touch. This combination not only separates the spaces but also adds visual interest.
Another option is to create a focal point with industrial style internal bifold doors. Pair with white internal doors that blend into white walls; making your property feel more airy and spacious. It’s this high contrast which is the key to a striking finish.
Alternatively, experiment with different materials, such as clear glass doors and rustic oak doors. Glass maintains an open, airy feel, while wood provides warmth and privacy. Remember to consider the overall style of your room and choose designs that complement your aesthetic.
Boost soundproofing and security with solid core doors which are an essential addition to any partitioned space.
How to Partition a Room without Building Walls
By combining techniques, it’s easy to effectively partition a room without resorting to permanent construction. A layered approach (while temporary) does provide maximum flexibility and easy restyling when you need it.
| DIY Room Dividers | Wicker screens and open shelving help to visually separate spaces. This allows for easy rearrangement and adaptability. |
| Furniture Placement | Strategically position furniture (sofas, console tables or large plants) to create distinct zones within the room. |
| Textiles | Use rugs of different sizes and patterns to define separate areas. Divide spaces using chic linen curtains in a versatile neutral shade for a fresh and breezy feel. |
| Lighting | Employ lighting to highlight specific zones. Dimmers and spotlights can create ambiance and focus attention on particular areas. Ideal for kitchen/diners. |
| Ceiling Treatments | Install a drop ceiling or use different ceiling materials to divide the room. Paint the ceiling in the same colour as your walls for a cocooning ‘colour drench’ effect. |
Modern Room Partition Ideas
For Living Rooms & Bedrooms
Wondering what is the cheapest way to partition a room? Make use of design elements already available to you; rearranging them to clearly set out each zone within a room.
Makeshift ‘room dividers’ can be fashioned from existing items within your home (such as screens, plants, bookshelves or curtains). This approach may not look as polished but offers flexibility and can be easily moved around to suit different needs.
Got a little extra budget? Custom-built shelving units or wooden screens can serve as both functional storage solutions and stylish, modern room dividers. Glass partitions can also provide a contemporary and clean look while maintaining visual openness. Perfect for creating separation without sacrificing natural light.
On-trend wall panels are also perfect for visually defining different areas within one larger space. Explore more wall panelling ideas within our guide and see which houseplants have the most health benefits.
Room Partition Ideas Using Doors
Your internal doors play an integral role in the layout of a room; ensuring a room partition that feels seamless and sturdy.
Because while screens and shelving serve a purpose, well-made internal doors truly stand the test of time. Fortunately, when it comes to door options for room partitions, there are an abundance of options that offer unique advantages.
Firstly, modern bifold doors and folding doors are ideal for smaller spaces as they fold neatly against the wall. Sliding doors glide smoothly along a track, maximising space efficiency for a minimalist-inspired look.
Popular pocket door systems disappear entirely into the wall, providing a clean, streamlined look. Sliding barn doors, with their rustic charm, add an element of authentic character and craftsmanship. Great for sparser new build properties.
Classically elegant French doors (as loved by our customer and Liverpool-based home influencer Lilly Moffatt) create an easy transition between rooms or from indoor to outdoor spaces.
Ultimately, deciding the best doors for a room partition depends on numerous factors such as the room’s size, style and desired level of privacy.
Discover how to choose the best bifold door system for your property and research more ways to add property value and revamp your space on a budget with our affordable renovation tips.
Room Divider Ideas: Styling tips & Suggestions
Plan the layout of your partitioned space carefully to ensure optimal functionality and aesthetics. Popular combinations are: kitchen and dining areas, living rooms and home offices and bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms or closets.
Choose the Right Materials
Select materials that complement your overall interior design. Will you opt for brightening white, warm wooden tones or dramatic industrial-style black?
Play with Light & Texture
Use lighting to highlight different zones and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Layer textiles and strike a consistent tone with a strict colour palette.
Add Personal Touches
Incorporate personal items, such as artwork, plants and accessories, to personalise your partitioned spaces. Opt for custom fire doors to create a unique end result.
Partitioned Spaces Made Simple
Room divider doors offer a versatile and chic solution to achieve a practical and pleasing finish within any home.
By cleverly partitioning your room, it’s never been easier to enhance privacy, reduce disruptions and optimise living spaces for real day to day living that works. Whether you choose sliding doors, pocket doors or bifold doors, our collection of innovative options provides flexibility and adaptability tailored to you.
Embrace the 2025 trend of partitioned spaces and transform your home into a harmonious blend of openness and seclusion from the outside world.
Browse trending designs and enquire about bespoke doors which can be made to measure. Rediscover our signature Roomfold Range and follow us on Instagram for even more home interiors inspiration.
