The use of wooden screens to separate spaces

When planning an interior design project, there are many variables to take into account. However, there is one basic one that consists of making good use of space. Sometimes, the square metres available allow us to build walls or create solid divisions.

But there is another interesting alternative when you want to enjoy an open-plan space. You can opt for the use of wooden screens to separate spaces. The result will be an adaptable, flexible and elegant space.

Once again, we have to look to the East to find the germ of this decorative resource. The first people to use wooden screens were the Chinese.

Their aim was as simple and straightforward as preventing people from being exposed to draughts and wind. To do this, they created a structure of hinged, extendable and folding panels that is still in use today.

Wooden screens began to be used in Japan shortly afterwards, due to their proximity. Over the centuries, they became more decorative and were fully integrated into the wabi-sabi decorative trend.

The truth is that today, designs inspired by the Far East are still produced, but they have also incorporated more modern and contemporary lines.

As with most decorative pieces that are to be placed in a home, integration must be sought. This means that the screen to be designed must adapt and fit in perfectly with the general decoration of the space.

Another very important issue is to make sure that the quality of the screen is optimal. It is true that you have to choose between manufacturing it with treated or untreated wood. Perhaps, the first option is the most recommendable. If the wood has been treated to protect it from humidity or parasites, the screen will remain in good condition for a longer period of time.

The interior designer will certainly opt for quality wood and pay attention to the fitting of sturdy hinges. These parts must guarantee complete opening and folding. They should also be well oiled to avoid rubbing and those annoying squeaks.

Finally, it is essential to ensure the complete stability of the structure. No wooden folding screens that are limp or fall down in a gust of wind.

The versatility of this accessory means that it can be used in many rooms. Of course, the use of wooden screens to separate spaces is usually the most common but not the only one.

At Molins Design we have installed screens in different places of the house and with different purposes. We must always bear in mind the great decorative quality of wood and all the possibilities it offers.

Entrance hall or vestibule. Starting a tour around the house, the first place where it is possible to place a wooden screen is at the entrance. In this way, we can create a small area where we can welcome possible visitors. On the other hand, it also avoids indiscreet glances towards the interior of the house.

Kitchen-dining room. The communication between kitchen and dining room can be solved with a wooden screen to divide the space. At Molins Design we took care of the design of the Rechson Penthouse where we placed a diagonal slatted screen. In this way, we separate the two environments but still facilitate visual contact.

Living room. We cannot forget the decorative use of wooden screens. For this reason, it is a good idea to use this structure to decorate, for example, a wall in the living room. Making a comparison with the use of wallpaper, it is possible to complete the colour tone of an area or highlight a specific corner. However, it is always advisable that the design and tones of the screen match the upholstery of sofas and armchairs.

Office. We are not discovering anything if we say that teleworking is fully integrated in the work activity. Therefore, having an office at home is becoming commonplace and almost necessary. In our Cervantes Apartment project, we placed a wooden screen that provided some privacy but also allowed communication.

Bedroom. The sleeping area is probably the best place to use wooden screens to separate spaces. It is usual to place them to give more intimacy to the possible adjacent dressing room. With a screen in between it is always more comfortable to change clothes. Another option that should not be ruled out is to use a screen as a bed headboard.

Terrace. We do not forget about outdoor areas because they are usually spaces where privacy is sought. Well, wooden screens can contribute to that privacy and provide a very successful aesthetic to the terrace. In addition, they are easy to move, so you can easily change their position.