Articles » Design Secret to Add Punch to Any Room
Design Secret to Add Punch to Any Room
folding screen or room divider? Prices range from less than a hundred dollars to a few thousand, or you might consider making one yourself.
Folding screens come in all shapes, styles, sizes and finishes. They can be solid or have open designs in metal, bamboo, wood, fabric or fiber. From oriental designs, to mirrors and leather, there is something for every style and budget. They are also extremely versatile. If you get tired of the screen, it’s portable; move it to another room or store it away for another time.
Screens can create focal points or hide architectural or design flaws. Shorter screens can be used on top of a buffet to help divide a space or up against a wall to create textured interest. Also, many older homes have odd doors that are no longer in use. If you’re renting a place or don’t have the money to remove the door and drywall, then using a screen can hide the problem. Screens can also be used as wall art or headboards. Just lay the screen flat, secure with L-brackets if necessary and you’ve got a whole new look for your room.
Have a multi-purpose room and need some division? A folding screen to the rescue! Just make sure it’s a sturdy screen and you don’t place furniture too close. You don’t want it to topple onto your family members or guests. It’s also a great way to hide crafting or office clutter from the rest of the world, especially if you’re in the middle of a project and drop-in guests are on their way.
If you really want to get a custom look, consider making one yourself. Take a trip to a used building supply store and look at their selection of old doors or closet doors. Closet doors are a bit easier because they are already hinged, making your work a little easier. Regular doors will be a bit sturdier but you’ll need to find 2 or 3 of the same size and material if you’re not going to paint. You also need to invest in some hinges to be able to make them act as a screen. Look at the large exposed rustic iron hinges for a more decorative look.
Once you’ve selected your doors, you’ll want to decide how to treat them. If the doors are in good shape and the same material, you may be able to just clean them, cover scratches, hinge and you’re done. Most of the time, you’re not so lucky. If that’s the case, invest in a little paint and either do a flat finish or faux them to get a metallic, stone or leather look. You can also cover them with wallpaper or fabric or a combination of both paint and fabric. The addition of mirrors can give you a more contemporary look; just be careful with the mirrors, you don’t need seven years of bad luck.
No matter what you decide, purchase or create something you absolutely love. A folding screen is in every interior designer’s bag of tricks. It’s almost equivalent to a little black dress. I guarantee you’ll absolutely love having a folding screen. The hardest part will be deciding on only one!
Debra Howard is a former antique dealer, interior designer and home furnishings retailer who now helps small businesses get more exposure though her website www.tucsonhomeandgardenspot.com Tucson Home and Garden Spot is a division of her business www.creativeedgemarketingco.com. No part of this article may be reproduced or reprinted without permission. Copyright 2007.