How to Turn a Bedroom Into 2 Rooms

If you find yourself needing an extra bedroom for one reason or another, we’re about to share how you can effectively turn one bedroom into two. Whether you’ve got two growing kids who’ve decided they absolutely can’t share a room anymore, you're working from home and can’t take another Zoom call from your kitchen table, or you simply just want to make the most of your space, this article might just give you the inspiration you need to get things sorted.  

You might be surprised to hear that turning one bedroom into two is absolutely doable, whether it’s a permanent fix or temporary. It doesn’t always require a full-scale renovation either. With some creativity and DIY, you can create two functioning rooms out of one.  

1. First things first: measure up 

Before anything else it’s most important to measure everything up accurately, you’ll need to work out if the bedroom is actually going to be big enough to be split into two. 

A good rule of thumb is that each room should ideally be at least 6.5m² (around 70 square feet). That’s the minimum for a single bedroom according to UK housing standards (1). If it’s any smaller, it might not be considered a proper bedroom — and it could also affect your resale value later on. 

So, grab your tape measure. If the size of your current bedroom is around 3m x 4.5m or larger, you’ll likely be able to pull it off. 

2. Decide on the layout 

There are a few ways to divide the space, and how you’re able to do it also depends on the shape of the room, where the windows are, and what you actually need the space for. 

Option 1: Split down the middle 

In an ideal scenario where the bedroom has two windows, you can build a stud wall straight down the middle. Giving both of the new rooms natural light and privacy — win-win. 

Option 2: Divide with a corridor 

If there's only one window this is an option. You can split the room so that one part becomes a small internal bedroom or study, and the other gets the window. Adding a small hallway so each area has its own door. It is important to note that to legally be classed as a bedroom, there must be a window.  

Option 3: L-shape division 

For awkwardly shaped rooms, you might get away with creating an L-shaped division. One area could function as the sleeping space, and the other a compact home office or dressing room. 

3. Building a stud wall (minus the stress) 

Assuming you’re going the permanent route, the easiest and most common method is to build a stud wall. It’s effectively a proper wall, but lighter and a lot easier to install than a brick one. 

Thing you’ll need: 

• Timber frame (2x4s or similar) 
• Plasterboard 
• Screws and fixings 
• Insulation (for soundproofing) 
• A door frame and door 
• Possibly a plasterer or decorator to finish it nicely 

If you're not confident with DIY, this is where it’s probably necessary to get a professional in. It’s not a huge job for a builder – often done in a day or two. And paying someone qualified to do it might save you a lot of hassle in the long run. 

Don't forget to factor in things like lighting and plug sockets. You might need to hire an electrician to move or add a few, especially if you're sealing off parts of the room that now won’t have access to any ceiling lights. 

4. What if you can’t build a wall? 

Maybe you’re renting, or aren’t sure you want to commit to a full stud wall at this point in time. There are also plenty of non-permanent ways to divide up a room. 

Use a partition 

You can buy freestanding room dividers or sliding panels that act as temporary walls. Alternatively, a wardrobe makes an effective room divider too. 

Bookshelves or storage units 

A tall, open-backed bookshelf can work nicely as a divider and extra storage for both rooms. Double win. 

Curtains 

Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it — ceiling-mounted curtain rails are an effective and affordable way to divide space while keeping things flexible. Plus, it's simple to pull them back if you decide you want one big room again. 

5. Think about light and ventilation 

One of the biggest challenges of splitting a room is making sure that both new spaces still feel liveable without being too cramped. If you wall off the only window, you’re left with a box with no natural light which often isn’t ideal. 

Possible solutions 

• Use interior windows or glazed doors to share light from the next room. 
• Install ventilation grilles that will help with airflow. 
• Use light cohesive colours to keep the smaller spaces from feeling claustrophobic. 

6. Soundproofing is your friend 

If your new rooms are going to be bedrooms, or if one is a workspace, you will likely want to invest in some soundproofing. Stud walls can be stuffed with rockwool or acoustic insulation before plaster boarding. 

Think about things like: 

• Soft furnishings (curtains, rugs, cushions) to absorb sound 
• Door seals or acoustic doors if you’re going all out 

7. Add Finishing Touches 

Once the wall is up and painted, the fun bit begins: making it feel like two proper rooms. Some small ideas that make a big difference: 

• Fit separate light switches for each room 
• Add rugs to help define zones 
• Use different colours or styles in each half to make them feel distinct 
• Hang mirrors to bounce light around, really effective in small spaces 

8. The legal stuff 

Before you get carried away, remember — in the UK, building regulations might apply if you're making major structural changes. If you're just putting up a non-load-bearing wall inside one room, you're usually fine but it's always best to make sure before you start.  

Always check with your local council if: 

• You’re creating a new room that someone will sleep in 
• You’re altering fire safety exits 
• You’re adding or moving windows around 

If you're in a leasehold flat, check with your freeholder or management company before you start making any changes. If you're planning to sell your house or trying to increase its value, keep in mind that estate agents won’t necessarily count a boxy internal room as a "bedroom" unless it specifically meets the right size and light standards. 

Turning one bedroom into two: final thoughts 

Turning one bedroom into two can be an absolute game-changer for your home life – whether it’s giving your kids their own space, adding a much-needed home office, or creating a space to relax and unwind. 

It doesn’t have to cost a fortune and can usually be done quite quickly. With a bit of planning, some creative thinking, and maybe a builder for a day or two, you can make your space work better for you and your family without feeling the need to move house completely. 

Sources: 

1. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/technical-housing-standards-nationally-described-space-standard/technical-housing-standards-nationally-described-space-standard