Ditch Open Concept: The '60s Space-Defining Trend That's Making A Comeback

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Open concepts are starting to fall out of style, but not in the way you might expect. Closed-off rooms aren't the only alternative to an open floor plan. Instead, consider a piece of retro furniture that can strike a balance between the two types of layouts. While the room divider is an age-old concept, the '60s reinterpreted this simple furniture piece with a funky twist. Crafted from solid wood with playful, geometric lines and patterns, these retro room dividers are both fun and functional.

These mid-century wood partitions are a part of the '60s design trend that's making a comeback in modern homes.TikTok is full of '60s room divider restorations and countless DIYs that try to capture this retro look characterized by clean lines and an emphasis on functionality. Architectural Digest recently highlighted a wooden, mid-century room divider by iconic designers Charles and Ray Eames, as well as a space age-style wood screen with geometric inlays. While there have been several stunning mid-century room dividers across the decades, the more maximalist '60s variations are ideal if you're looking for a funky, retro-futuristic piece to breathe life into an open concept space.

When you're looking for a '60s-style room divider, there are a few features to prioritize depending on your interior design goals. Several wooden room dividers of the era have built-in storage, which is ideal if you're looking for a piece that does double duty. They can also divide a large room into smaller spaces and increase shelving. These pieces often feature drawers or cabinets at the bottom of the piece, with two-sided, open shelving above.

For a sleeker option, go for single panel dividers with geometric designs. And if you want your room divider to be authentically '60s (and you're willing to spend a pretty penny), look for options like this Ludvik Volak room divider via secondhand furniture retailers like Selency or 1stDibs. This decorative room divider idea can separate your space in style without taking up precious space. You may even be able to find some genuine vintage dividers on sites like Etsy or eBay if you're lucky.

If an authentic 1960s wood divider is out of your budget, Amazon also has stylish versions of these dividers, like this Tribesigns wall room divider with shelves. You can even create your own with retro-inspired wood panels from a craft store or online, like these Ekena Millwork wood wall panels. Attach multiple panels together to form a screen. You can choose any wood you'd like, but mid-century modern furniture often used teak, rosewood, or oak, so these selections may read more realistically vintage. Whether your divider is authentic, a replica, or a DIY, separating your space with a '60s-style room divider can add retro charm to any home.