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Roller shades as room divider?

last year
last modified: last year

Hi, I would like to divide my studio apartment so the alcove (10' wide, 8' high) is invisible from the living area. A simple solution seems to be a wide motorized roller shade that can be rolled up or down (like Starbucks window shades :-).

Is that a good idea, and can it look elegant?

Importantly, what is the smallest possible diameter of the rolled shades? It would be great if it were about 2.5" so it could fit within recessed-light false ceilings.

Product or installer recommendations would be appreciated as well.

Thank you!

Rough look of space:



Shade divider example (due to layout constraints, sliding panels shown here won't work, so I wonder about roll-down shades):



Comments (13)

  • last year
    last modified: last year

    Thanks for the question!


    I added two pictures to the original post to clarify the layout and what I am looking for.


    Thank you again!



  • PRO
    last year
    last modified: last year

    Hello,

    What are you thoughts on instead of roller shades, you have a internal steel sliding door?

    We would love to discuss more with you regarding your project.

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    Get in touch today: enquiries@herasteelsevenoaks.co.uk



    variouzz thanked User
  • last year

    What are you trying to achieve here - is this for privacy or do you want to divide the room?

    variouzz thanked siobhanmcgee90
  • last year
    last modified: last year

    Thank you both for the comments.

    I am trying to achieve privacy.

    The issue with sliding doors is their appearance when open. The layout precludes overlapping them with the side wall, so they will have to obstruct some of the opening, that is what I am trying to avoid.

    Thanks!

  • PRO
    last year

    Hi,


    I understand! Have you looked into an internal bi-folding system, when fully opened the doors are stacked for maximum opening.



    variouzz thanked User
  • last year

    As privacy is your aim, glass sliding doors are pretty pointless. I like Isla’s idea of curtains hung from a ceiling rail. A simple solution which will hide the bedroom area when required and create a cosy, enclosed space when you’re in bed.

    variouzz thanked Betty Boo
  • last year

    I’ve never seen blinds used as a room divider but looks good, if it can be done. I also like Isla’s idea of floaty curtains.

    variouzz thanked Sonia
  • last year

    Agree Isla’s idea is good. Have a look at the RIBA 2023 house of the year, Green House where they used curtains very successful to separate/open the open plan footprint downstairs. Ceiling rails are streamlined and nice simple linen curtains would work well to separate and provide privacy.

    variouzz thanked siobhanmcgee90
  • last year
    last modified: last year

    Thanks everyone for all the good advice!

    If anyone has thoughts or experience with roller shades as room dividers, or knows about low-diameter rollers, please also let me know.

    Thank you!

  • last year

    Hi there,


    Thanks for providing images of the space! Given your focus on privacy and avoiding obstructions when open, roller shades remain an excellent option. A motorized roller shade in an opaque or blackout material would provide the privacy you need while disappearing neatly when rolled up.


    To ensure the smallest roll diameter (2–2.5 inches), look for brands like Lutron or Somfy that specialize in compact, custom solutions. Recessing the shade into the ceiling would give it a seamless appearance and keep the area tidy.


    If you’re looking for alternatives, consider panel track blinds with stackable panels—they provide privacy and slide entirely out of the way without obstructing the opening.

    Let me know if you’d like more details or recommendations!


    Best wishes,
    The Oraanj Interior Design Team

  • PRO
    last year

    Hi there, we have provided roller blinds as a room divider. Please see example photos.


    We offer a FREE online video consultation where we can give you specific advice for what your are trying to achieve. We can call you via WhatsApp or FaceTime. To learn more or to book an appoinment click here.

  • PRO
    last year

    Love your idea—it’s smart, space-saving, and can be elegant with the right fabric choice. For a clean, modern look, go for a blackout fabric in a soft neutral or textured weave. There are ultra-slim roller systems available; some recess into as little as 2.5–3”, especially with custom motorized options (Lutron and Somfy both offer sleek systems worth exploring). I’ve helped clients achieve similar setups, happy to suggest layout tweaks or fabric ideas if you’d like