About Decorative Screens & Room Dividers
Faced with a large space that needs to work as a living room and a bedroom? Or maybe a space shared by two siblings that don't want to share? Not enough space to throw up a wall? There are times when delineating a space with a rug or furniture arrangement is enough to visually separate a room. But sometimes you need something different, something more intriguing to do the job. Add some history and allure by using a decorative screen as a room divider. Does this Spark an idea?
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History of Decorative Screens And Room Dividers
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Decorative screens originated in Asia. Chinese screens were usually heavy and ornate, which prevented them from being moved easily. These screens were not always the folding variety and generally were decorated with serious artworks. Japanese screens, however, were more portable and used for all kinds of purposes from tea ceremonies, to outdoor processions, to housing temporary religious events. Western use of the folding screen was introduced around the time of Marco Polo.
Western Decorative Room Dividers
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With the advent of European travelers in Asia and subsequent trading between East and West, the decorative folding screen began making appearances in the trading ports of the West. Europeans became quickly adept at making copies of the Asian imports, even to the point of recreating the elaborate process of lacquering wood that the Chinese favored. Each era of Western history has its own flavor of decorative folding screens and dividers. From simple, rustic wood panels, to painted leather, silk, mirrors and decoupage, the folding screen is always adaptable and open to new ideas.
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How To Use A Decorative Screen or Room Divider
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Folding screens are not necessarily room dividers. They can be used as visual interest along the back of a seating arrangement, across an expanse of open wall or to simply filter light from a window. When using a folding screen to divide a space, consider what aspects are being addressed in your arrangement. Are you providing privacy, separation, creating intimacy or making a visual statement?
Modern Room Dividers and Screens
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It is no surprise to find that 21st century designers and manufacturers have added modern materials to create the latest version of the decorative room divider. Using perforated materials, plastics and metals, room dividers have now taken on a whole new vocabulary of shape, color and texture. Products are being developed that resist graffiti and clean easily.
Basics for Choosing a Decorative Screen or Room Divider
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Here are a few basic tips to consider when deciding on the best decorative screen or room divider.
Scale and Proportion: What size screen works with the room?
Style and Construction: What is the theme in the room, the era being interpreted?
Purpose and Use: How will the screen be used?
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