We're all about making our space go further at Real Homes. In fact, helping you turn a rented humble abode into a nuanced, multi-faceted home is our very expertise. Our game is finding affordable but undeniably chic furnishings to break up and enliven any apartment. Enter: all of the folding room dividers we're currently loving. So, whether you want your bed and your desk to feel like they are in two separate rooms (and to switch up your Zoom background), or you're looking for something to split your studio apartment in half in style, I've got you covered.
While your standard room divider does the job, I'm in the market for something a little more refined, not to mention adjustable. Granted, there's plenty to be said about the different ways we can divide our rooms, but this foldable (and easy to stack and move) way definitely won't upset my roommates. Indeed, I rarely go a week without tinkering with the setup of my living room, so the packable, lightweight characteristic makes it vital for someone like me. I mean, sure: standalone bookcases are great for splitting things up, but they don't exactly travel well.
Working with a modest budget and room size, I've picked out a range of folding room dividers, from bright and airy solutions to let the light shine through your space to cooler finishes and more homey options. Scouring the likes of Wayfair, Amazon, Target, and more, you won't want to miss these. Plus, much like our ever-ingenious bedroom storage-saving ideas, they won't wind up your landlord!
9 chic folding room dividers you and your roomies will thank us for
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Our top room divider pick
Made from: Woven fiber
Size (in): H70.9 x W142.5 x D0.79
Coming first on my list, this adjustable design combines eight folding screens that are handmade in a tightly woven pattern. The result? A sturdy and stylish privacy screen that doubles up as an elegant piece of decor. Arriving fully assembled, it's uber-light, making it easy to trial in different positions, and should fit in neatly with a boho-luxe aesthetic. And yes, in case you hadn't heard: rattan is back in a big way.
Cheap and chic
Made from: Bamboo and pine wood
Size (inches): H72 x W70.8 X D3.1
If you're on a tight budget, this minimalist design more than delivers. Fitting seamlessly into almost any space, it looks especially stylish in its natural shade, helping create an easy, tranquil vibe. Plus, thanks to the classic rattan design, it feels cozy and snug, as well as on-trend. If you're using it for privacy reasons, it's as opaque as they come, but still super light for folding and storing away.
Quirky and quaint
Made from: Solid wood
Size (inches): H67 x W71 x D0.86
With elaborate carvings, this premium design brings an antique touch to your pad. Its pinewood construction offers a subtle and elegant grain, perfect for anyone trying out an earthier, country-house look in their home. Here, less really is more. Oh, and the lazier ones among us (guilty as charged) will appreciate the fact that no assembly is required. Simply open and go.
For the minimalist
Made from: Solid wood
Size (inches): H69.5 x W85 x D0.01
What IKEA doesn't know about simple and sleek design isn't worth knowing. True to its mantra, this fuss-free divider delivers on pared-back, Scandi style, while serving its function to break up your apartment. Whether it separates out an overnight bedroom for a friend who's crashing on the couch or carves a spot to hang out, its uses are endless. Plus, the mostly natural construction (renewable pine is always a winner) and quick-wipe surface ticks all the boxes. I'm here for it.
The light touch
Made from: Wood
Size (inches): H67 x W64 x D0.01
With an artsy design, this four-panel wonder combines poplar wood and an intricate diamond weave. It's left unpainted, which gives it a soft, natural feel, while the larger gaps allow for plenty of light to radiate through your home. I would mark this down as the go-to for anyone looking for an option that works for pocket-size apartments. As elegant as it is sturdy, the statement piece has stainless steel hinges, ensuring it stands strong in your home. Oh, and there's no setup. Dreamy.
A cappuccino cool divider
Made from: Wood
Size (inches): H70.25 x W52 x D0.75
While I'm a sucker for rattan, I do have a special place in my heart for bolder patterns. In this case, an impressive geometric design slots easily into an otherwise neutral and understated home. If you're working with anything like beige, ecru, and off-white walls, this is ideal. Completely opaque, it fits the brief for privacy, but as far as I'm concerned, the rich symmetrical aesthetic is reason enough to add it to my room.
Great for loft apartments
Made from: Wood
Size (inches): H48 x W48 x D0.75
Picture the scene: New York studio, fifth floor and light pooling through the windows. Yep, all you need now is the furnishings to match such a setting. This room divider, made with kiln-dried wood, is just the ticket, pairing perfectly with houseplants and every young professional's set-up. I can personally see this in your zen space — whether that's the bedroom or lounge — but there's also something to be said for its bathroom abilities. Boutique living at its finest.
The original-inspired room divider
Made from: Wood
Size (inches): H71 x W52 X D0.75
Much like the ancient screens used in Japan, this features authentic paper window panes that soften the sun's glare but allow just enough light in for a warm ambiance in your space. Arriving fully set up, it has a delicate appearance, but don't be fooled: This is built to last with a durable and lightweight frame constructed using hardwood. For me, it's the understated allure that does it here. It's easy to see why the design has lasted the test of time.
Rustic realness
Made from: Wood
Size (inches): H67 x W95 x D0.7
Your search for Venetian shutters meets room divider ends here. With open, solid wooden slats, this reclaimed vintage-inspired piece allows ample light to pass through and does a stellar job of hiding the messier parts of your home. All the while, it enriches your abode with added dimension. Six panels wide, it's a relatively sizeable choice, but don't fret: It's small-space friendly. Add to this the hardwood construction, and you have a classic.
How else can I divide a room?
Zoning an open-plan space is easier than you'd think. And while the folding room divider is a brilliant way to do this, some of us might prefer a lighter or more open method of doing so. Ultimately, it comes down to being resourceful, looking around for quick fixes you might already have at home, or some savvy investments. For example, a well-placed rug goes miles in elevating a small space. You might also want to try out some smart shelving ideas to break up sections of your home. Or, it could be even simpler. Try a DIY plant stand or add your hanging plants to a rail, and there you have it: an enriched space. As Holly put it in her tips for room dividing, "Any excuse to add to the plant babies' brood."