Dividing a Studio Apartment
Studio-living is a unique experience. It offers the convenience of walking from one living space to another by simply moving around one or two rooms. Such easy access can, of course, be both a blessing and a headache. On one hand, tidying up and putting items away becomes a quick chore. And preparing a snack during your favorite television program is easily accomplished.
On the other hand, living out of one or two rooms can be mentally distracting. How common is it to experience the urge to check email while lying in bed, simply because the desk is in plain view? I’m sure it’s very common. Then there are disturbances, such as the pile of dirty dishes in the sink, that worm their way into your thought process while working on an important document, simple because the dishes are in plain sight (or smell).
These distractions are the bane of studio living (aside from the small space). But they can be minimized, and one of the best ways to do this is to seperate the spaces visually with room dividers.
We suggest starting off with the bedroom or the office, since these are two areas where mental distractions are the most unwanted.
The cheapest way to divide a room up is by arranging the furniture in a way that creates distinct spaces. Using rugs in addition to this helps create visual focal points.
If your studio is oddly shaped, and you are left with little choice in furniture placement, don’t worry. This is where room dividers come in. The three most common room dividers are:
- Curtains. You can buy curtain panels or a piece of cloth and clip-on curtain rings. Then hang the curtain from a rod that attaches to the ceiling. Sheer fabric is recommended for small spaces, since it will allow light to filter through. For your bed, you can even create a canopy.
- Bookcases. Backless, free-standing bookcase that look pleasing from both sides make excellent room dividers. And they have the added benefit of acting as storage. Place the bookcase between two of your living spaces and place objects that look please from both sides on the shelves.
- Folding screens. Folding Screens are a good choice, because they are flexible and versatile. You can easily move them around and play with the furniture arrangement. Plus they don’t take up much space.