Partition without walls

Shristi Nangalia

Partitions can not only help you organise and double the functionality of any small space, but also segregate and give meaning to a large open-plan space. It can be functional — by providing storage — or could simply be decorative. Want to achieve that without inviting the hassle of structural construction? Here are creative solutions that serve the purpose and bring in oodles of style and personality to your interiors.

Take a screen shot

Folding screens have been used since old times to ward off closet spaces and privatise any area. However, both small and large format folding screens can be used in interiors to distinguish functions and make a solid statement as well. They are available in the market in myriad of material, colour and texture options. You can make a customised one (by introducing jaalis, lattice, carvings, etc.) as per the décor and dimensions of your space too. Since these are lightweight and mobile, one can move it around the house or shut it, along a wall when needed. 

The grace of glass 

For a more permanent and subtle setup, glass can be an undemanding and crisp solution. Glass can be installed using pivoting hardware in the floor and ceiling or can be integrated with metal or wooden frames like that of a window. Frames have a light impact, yet can help demarcate spaces. They can be fitted in a sliding, folding or hinged fashion according to the available space. The design and look of the glass can be accentuated with etching, tinting and staining. 

Use the wood 

Wood is a highly versatile and workable material. Hardwood and its derivatives (plywood, fibreboard, block boards, etc.) can be engineered to make slats, lattices, louvers, doors, etc. and tailored as room dividers. Decide on the height, width and thickness of the panels in accordance to your privacy, visual and auditory requirements. Similar to glass partitions, wood partitions can be made to slide, fold, swivel or pocket to one’s need. You can get creative and create interesting jaali patterns, 3D walls, Japanese-style shoji doors, and bamboo/ tree branches, too, to let you demarcate a space without compromising on style!

Over the counter 

If you wish to keep the sight lines unobstructed yet divide different spaces in a big space, bring in a half-height counter, console table, sideboard, shelf or bench. These make separate parts of an open-plan space visually connected and double as extra storage and platform space. To ward off an open-kitchen and living space, the island counter or bar counter can solve the purpose. A low-height shelf or sideboard can be used in living rooms and bedrooms to segregate different tasks and offer bonus storage space.

On open shelves

You can make most of partition by installing it as an open shelf. Open shelves can not only add to the functional aspect, but aesthetic appeal of the space also. These can be free-standing, floor-hinged, wall-hung or suspended from the ceiling, and can be designed to match the décor of the room it is to be installed in. If you need an instant fix, bookcases and curio shelves can come to the rescue. 

Raise the platform 

Elevating certain sections of any room can visually divide and delineate the spaces for different functions. For instance, in large living rooms, coffee sets or a swing placed on a raised platform can create a striking focal point while organising the open spaces more prominently.