Using Curtains as Room Dividers: A Stylish and Cost-Effective Way to Create Extra Space

Ever feel like your home is just one open space where everything blends together —your living room, office, and maybe even a playroom for the kids? Or perhaps you’re desperate for some privacy when guests crash at your place for the holidays? If you're nodding your head, it's time to think about curtains—not just for your windows, but as room dividers. Curtains are the perfect solution when you need to reimagine your space, without the hassle (or cost) of building walls or doing major renovations. Plus, they’re renter-friendly!

We saw this clever trick on The Block during office and rumpus week. House 3 used a gorgeous eucalyptus-coloured dimmout curtain to divide their rumpus from the games area, giving them a flexible space for entertainment and relaxation.

House 4, on the other hand, took things up a notch with large-scale black Satori sheer curtains to section off their mezzanine, ensuring privacy while maintaining a sense of openness. While the judges weren’t entirely on board with the overall room design, their use of curtains was a brilliant example of dividing spaces without breaking the bank—or building walls.

Why Curtains are the Answer to Your Space Struggles

Whether you’ve got an open-plan living area that needs some defined zones or you’re just craving a little privacy, curtains are your best friend.

They offer versatility that permanent structures simply can't. Want to close off your space when guests are over but keep it open and breezy the rest of the time? Curtains can do that. Need a quiet corner to work from home but don’t want to invest in a big remodel? Yep, curtains have got you covered.

Plus, they’re super renter-friendly. You won’t have to worry about making permanent changes to your space. Curtain rods or tracks can be easily installed and removed, so you can easily switch things up.

Style Meets Functionality

Curtains aren’t just about creating makeshift walls—they bring a soft, cosy vibe to any room. Available in various colours, textures, and styles, they can add personality to your space while also solving practical problems. Want something light and airy to create subtle divisions? Go for sheers. Need more privacy for a workspace or a temporary guest room? Opt for heavier lined or dimmout curtains.

House 3's use of a curved rail to perfectly meet the wall shows how you can customise your design to fit the space you're working with.

House 4’s mezzanine design showed how curtains can work in more modern spaces. By using two large sheer curtains, they created a private zone without sacrificing the airy, open feel of their home.

Easy to Install and Adapt

If you're the DIY type—or just don’t want the hassle of hiring professionals—curtains are for you. You can mount curtain tracks or rods in no time, and they’re incredibly adaptable. They’re handy if you’re looking for a quick fix to turn one large room into two.

And if your home is starting to feel more like a storage space than a living space, curtains can conceal messy areas in lofts or large rooms. A simple curtain divider can instantly tidy up your home, giving it a clean, organised look—no expensive storage units or custom cabinetry required.

Picking the Perfect Curtain

So, how do you choose the right curtain for your space? Think about what you need. If it is privacy or sound reduction, go for thicker fabrics like velvet or lined options. Need something more lightweight to keep the space feeling open? Sheer fabrics are your go-to.

As we saw on The Block with House 3’s stylish dimmout curtain and House 4’s mezzanine makeover, curtains are more than just functional—they’re a design statement. And the best part? They’re budget-friendly, easy to install, and can instantly transform your space into something beautiful and practical.