How to Separate Rooms Without Using a Solid Partition

A house is a place to rest and gather with family, usually containing rooms for each family member that are private or at least semi-private. The semi-private spaces are often the place communal activities take place, and a lot of time give guests the first impression of the home. 

These spaces include living rooms, dining rooms, family rooms, and can also include the pantry. They are often found in one area, separated by partitions to differentiate each space's unique function. This can become an issue, as solid partitions not only take up a lot of space, but they can also limit the view, making each room feel slightly cramped. A solution to this issue is using clear space transitions, or open-plan partitions instead of solid ones to open up the spaces, in turn making them feel more spacious and better connected.

TRANSPARENT PARTITION

There are several options when installing transparent partitions. One option is to use a two-sided bookshelf with a large gap between each shelf, similar to the photo above. Another option could be to use a glass partition to separate spaces without having to block the view from each room. You could also use wooden louvre partitions that still allow for visual connection between the two rooms. 

FLOOR LEVEL DIFFERENCE 

Changes in floor levels can be utilised to separate spaces without limiting the field of view. Adjacent rooms can remain connected whilst retaining their differing functions. This difference in floor level does not have to be extreme, a gap of 10 to 15cm is more than enough to separate two connecting rooms into clear territories. 

VARIED CEILING MATERIAL AND HEIGHT

Where rooms are on the same level, playing with ceiling material and height difference is another option to clearly separate two connecting rooms. Another bonus in having a room with a high ceiling is that it can give the impression of a larger, more open room, especially when a few people are occupying the space. 

DIFFERENT WALL AND FLOOR MATERIAL 

Rooms with differing functions may use different materials in their walls and floors to separate the spaces. This difference in material can set clear boundaries between the spaces. 

FRAMING THE ROOMS

By forming a frame in the wall surfaces, a space can be clearly separated from an adjoining room. This element creates the effect of a doorway without having to obstruct the open plan of the space. It can also pose as an interesting design feature of the room, making it more visually interesting to look at.