Vintage Room Divider

Paper room dividers are often called decorative screens or merely room dividers depending on the design. The earliest examples of folding screens are said to have originated in China and go back at least as far as the Han dynasty. Screens of the era were heavy structures made of wood and had hinges of cloth or leather. They were adorned with elaborate landscape paintings that were typically created on silk or paper canvases and applied directly to the screen’s panels afterward. Just as they had been in the 20th century and today, the folding screens then were recognized for both their practical and purely decorative properties. Japanese room-divider screens were also decorated with paintings but constructed to be lightweight and mobile. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of room dividers and decorative screens.

Chinese room dividers are also called pingfengs. The term pingfeng in traditional Chinese literally means “wind blocker” or “wind wall.” Some people also refer to these room dividers as folding screens because they consist of hinged panels that allow them to fold up when not in use. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of folding screens from some of the world's top dealers.

Yes, you can use curtains as a room divider. To do so, you will need to mount hanging hardware on the ceiling. One of the biggest benefits of using curtains to divide rooms is that they are easy to maneuver when you want to open up a space or close off an area. Shop a range of curtains on 1stDibs.

Yes, you can attach a room divider to a wall using nails or adhesive. However, making holes or using strong chemical glues may damage some room divider materials. If you do choose to anchor a divider, use care when removing it in the future. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of room dividers.

Whether room dividers fall easily depends on a few factors. Generally, the heavier the room divider is, the less likely it is to tip over. Dividers are also less likely to fall if they are properly adjusted. With an accordion-style divider, try bending the panels at a wider angle to create a more sturdy base. Some people choose to install stabilizing brackets on the floor to keep their room dividers upright. Depending on the style of your space, you may also be able to hang a divider from the ceiling or attach one end to a wall. Shop a variety of room dividers on 1stDibs.

Yes, room dividers are a good idea. The right room divider can make large spaces feel more intimate. Dividers can also make it easier for a space to serve two functions, such as a dining room and a living room. Room dividers can additionally help to ensure privacy when placed in offices, bathrooms and bedrooms. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of room dividers.

The Carlton room divider is a Memphis-style icon made of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and plastic laminate. A highly sculptural piece, it features a bookcase, drawers and shelves painted in lovely muted primary colors. Shop Carlton room dividers from top sellers on 1stDibs.

Ettore Sottsass did not design the Carlton room divider for a specific patron or client. He created the piece while working with the Memphis Group, an art collective that held joint shows from 1981 to 1987. Find a selection of Ettore Sottsass furniture on 1stDibs.