4 TIPS FOR CARVING OUT PRIVATE SPACE AT HOME

If you ask families, roommates and couples if they would like a little privacy now, the answer is likely to be a resounding yes. With stay-at-home guidelines, household members are often working or doing school assignments in the same space where people normally relax, and that can put a strain on even the best relationships.

We asked interior designers for ideas on ways to carve out space to make it easier to handle the emotional stress of the pandemic:

1. Physical separation is key.

Most people don’t have extra rooms to designate for meditation or reading, but sometimes a little rearranging of furniture can help create the illusion of separation.

“A bookcase or shelving system on wheels can create a movable privacy option and can be a practical solution for storage,” wrote Gabriela Gargano of Grisoro Designs in New York in an email.

If you don’t own a system on wheels, you may want to temporarily move an existing bookcase or table to create a division of space, or use a folding screen.

Susan Jamieson, founder of Bridget Beari Designs, recommends expandable spring tension curtain rods for temporary privacy that can be ordered online.

“They come in a variety of sizes, are easy to install and won’t damage walls,” she wrote in an email. “Mount them in the doorway of your dining room and drape with sheets or fabric that you already have. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on interim solutions. When the fabric is pulled closed, it means private time is in session.”

2. Get creative.

Jamieson suggests turning a walk-in closet into a hidden haven.

“I have a small desk set up in mine that works as a quiet place to sketch, read and write,” she wrote.“If you don’t have a demure desk, look around your home and see what could (do) double-duty. Perhaps a folding game table or smaller console. Bring in a tiny table lamp and pull up a chair. What’s more, you may be inspired to declutter your closet.”

Sometimes a quiet space can be as simple as an extra table and chair in the garage or a chair in your living room or bedroom, Gargano says.

“The important part is to have the seating face away from the rest of the room,”she wrote.“This is a simple way for you to signal you’re taking some personal time.”

3. Move around if necessary.

Although a home office with a door is better than having to work with others nearby in the kitchen, designer Pamela Harvey suggests that switching work sites can be a way to find some privacy and a new perspective under any circumstances.

“Think about finding another spot or two to camp out for an hour or so,”wrote Harvey.“Moving around, especially if you can look outside during the sunnier days or even better, go out on a porch, might bring some energy to your day.”

4. Find a quiet spot.

A designated quiet zone for video calls is a necessity for many people working at home.

“The room should be welllit, decorated with a clean background and perhaps a few accents such as art or a plant, but be kept professional and very tidy,” wrote Gargano. “While the primary need is likely for video calls, it can also be used for those needing a quiet room to do homework, personal conversations, meditation or anything that requires true solitude. Adding a door tag or sign when in use is key to avoid interruptions.”