October 4th, 2009
Room Divider Hider
Should a Room Divider be a focal point or something more discreet?
Of course this is a question of individual style and needs. A room divider can either be a very bold design element, or it can simply perform a needed task, say to cover up a messy desk, act as a window shade, or divide a large room into separate, defined spaces. So, what should you look for when you want your room divider to be noticeable? And what should you look for when you want your room divider to blend in? Here are some tips on choosing the right room divider for your style and needs.
First, a Room Divider as a Design Statement. There are many ways to go with this. Obviously color is a great place to start. But, you don’t have to choose a floor screen that is bright red, orange or blue all over (although those certainly have a place in the right decor, too). This cherry blossom shoji screen is really the best of both worlds. With four panels, it’s wide enough for even the largest hiding jobs, and most of the colors are plain, black and white. However, this screen has added a twist with beautiful bright pink cherry blossoms. This splash of color is sure to draw the eyes of guests when they arrive, a great way to add a touch of Asian themed decor to the home.
Second, a Discreet Room Divider. This is a little bit trickier, since a floor screen, by definition, is a large piece of home decor. If you want your room divider to blend in with your decor rather than stand out, I would stick with very muted, single palette color themes. A natural screen with white panels is a great idea – it is unlikely to draw attention to the area you wish to hide. Another option is a fully wooden screen, as long as the screen is all the same color, and the color is mellow (light and medium browns work very well). Enjoy!
