Uses for decorative screens

Endless style from one element

One way an interior designer, or even the person who finds themselves savvy when it comes to putting together gorgeous interiors all on their own, makes a statement is by finding sometimes unusual or multiple uses for certain furniture or art pieces. Decorative screens have been around for years and have found their way into all walks of life in terms of room styles, colors and sizes.

There are many different options when it comes to your choice of screens. Depending on intended use, you can purchase varying heights and styles, such as a see-through or solid design. You can choose to hide it by blending it in or showcase it by using a dark screen against a lighter background or vice versa.

A more basic fabric screen can be personalized by creating your own design. Don't worry, it's relatively easy to do and a fun weekend project, even if you aren't particularly crafty! Try using tacks (they come in all colors and some have very decorative heads) to form patterns, or sewing on pretty ribbons and lace as great accents on a screen in a young girl's room. As she grows and changes, so can her decorative screen. Painting your screen is yet another way to let your inner artist out. You can create a free-form design with desired colors or use a template if you have a more specific design in mind. These are perfect for painting decorative borders on the screen as well. Check out a local craft store or the paint department of a big box store, where you can find metallic paints and fun stains, stick-on themed graphics such as Barbie and many other creative ways to jazz up your chosen screen.

Here are some other uses for decorative screens:

Headboard

A decorative screen can serve as a headboard and easily works as a showcase art piece if desired. Or, by choosing a screen the same color as your wall, it can practically disappear behind the bed and function to highlight colorful throw pillows. Styles in wood, glass or metal can strike a truly decorative pose in any bedroom and add character without breaking your budget.

Room divider

Sometimes small spaces need to be divided, but when walls are not an option, decorative screens are there to stylishly fill the need. Whether you are seeking to define an area or to create privacy or intimacy, the right decorative screen can make one big room feel more like many separate spaces. For some, having two lightweight screens that you can move easily helps create a fresh vibe every few months. You can also change up your screen by draping fabric or large scarves over it to get a new look that is as temporary or long-lasting as you want. It's an economical way to change up the space and bring joy to the eye.

Window dressing

Say you have a window that overlooks a parking lot, your neighbor's unmanicured backyard or, for city dwellers, a brick wall — a decorative screen can easily hide these visual nuisances while offering a scene you will long to look at. Choose a screen with soothing colors or perhaps an ocean or mountain scene to take you away from it all. You can even look into having a personal photo blown up and printed on your screen. Just place it in front of the window and be sure it's thin enough to still allow light to shine through.

The purchase of a decorative screen is one that will enhance your living space both now and later. With the choice of using it anywhere in your home and having options for recycling its colors or style over time, a decorative screen can bring you a lifetime of style satisfaction.

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