One of the oldest tricks in the book of decorating is the use of the screen as a room divider. In studio apartments where privacy was an issue, or as a way to separate a kitchenette from the living space, this folding half wall was used in apartments liberally achieving both practical and decorative success. We often come across decorative screens at estate sales and flea markets–this one below was covered in an expensive Gracie wallpaper in a color scheme that might at first glance give off a “fuddy-duddy” vibe, but in the right interior could be more glamorous than granny. 
We’re obsessed with screens at the moment as a way to add another layer of interest into a room. We think the decorative screen trend is making a come back, only this time it’s making itself more than just useful, it’s actually contributing to the overall success of rooms. Whether pushed up against a wall for architectural interest and a pop of color, or behind an upholstered headboard in a luxurious bedroom, the decorative screen can wear many hats. It even looks great hung on a wall as our friend and interior designer Garrow Kedigian (bottom image) likes to do. Pulled from our inspiration folder, here are a few of our favorite interiors that use screens in innovative ways (rooms by designer from top: Suzanne Kassler, Miles Redd, Garrow Kedigian). 
Here’s another great screen we’ve come across recently. The shopkeeper actually found this screen at one of the fields at Brimfield.
Another vintage screen covered in a Gracie wallpaper that we found at the Antique and Artisan Center in Stamford, CT. Something this long would be gorgeous in a formal living room behind a large sofa, don’t you think?
Here’s a little detail of the paper.
More inspiring interiors featuring our favorite new trend…
The room above is from interior designer Miles Redd’s NYC apartment. If you’re a fan of Redd then you know that he uses screens quite liberally. When we get a free afternoon, we’re dying to cover one of these blank screens with a cool wallpaper or some fabric and nail heads.
From left to right (top to bottom): 1st Dibs, World Market, Pier 1, Bellacor Jardin en Fleur, Arteriors. Do you have any recommendations for great decorative screens that are available online? Please share!
