CHI Good Questions: Temporary Walls?

Scott is looking for info: "My friends and I are looking to turn a three bedroom apartment were leasing near Chicago into a four bedroom one. I saw in the NY section that there are lots of options for leasing/buying temporary and pressure walls. I couldn't seem to find any companies that did this in the Chicago area. Does anybody know of any?"

(Note: Include a pic of your problem and your question gets posted first.
Email questions and pics with QUESTIONS in subject line to:
chicago(at)apartmenttherapy(dot)com)

The first option that came to mind was The Sliding Door Company. We knew that they made nice looking modern systems for dividing space - but we weren't sure if they would work for a rental. We made a quick call to Gina at the Chicago showroom and she told us the good news - the system requires no structural changes or modifications and is completely removable and reusable. Because it is modular allows it to be used in future homes - by adding or subtracting pieces it can conform to new dimensions and space requirements. The Sliding Door Company is located at 221 West Ohio and the number is 312.494.9494.

Any other sources or ideas for Scott?

Photos: Sliding Door Company

Comments (10)

Coming from someone who has lived in a converted space-- I would highly advise against converting a space into an extra bedroom unless this is to be used strictly for overnight guests and not a permanent roommate. The benefits of dividing the rent 4 times over 3 do not outweigh what you quality of life will be. Think of the added strain on communal spaces, kitchen facilities, bathroom(s), and most of all, noise!

I used to live in a loft but we needed a second bedroom. we tore out 2X4's from the walls of an abandoned factory and made real walls with insulation and everything. it turned out to be a really fun project and the landlord was overjoyed he could charge the next tenants after us more money for an apartment with more bedrooms.

I actually saw an ad for The Sliding Door Company this morning! I am considering using this option for a "convertible" studio apartment. If you choose to use this company, let me know. I'd love to hear a review. Has anyone else purchased from this company?

Cost-wise, you may be better off building a conventional wall with studs and drywall (and acoustic insulation!) in a careful manner, and tearing it out later when you want to convert it back to 3 bedrooms.

I had a temporary wall (by one of those NY companies that specialize in them) split my large bedroom into 2. It's worked out ok. If i had to do it over again I would definitely have them use acoustic insulation. The sliding door solution looks good but I'd be really concerned about sound proofing. I've had friends who've had contractors and handymen put up temporary walls and they've all had good results. The main difference is these temporary wall companies are 'renting' you the wall, and will come disassemble it and take it away at some point.

The sliding door company isn't cheap. I thought I would use them for a closet door in my loft. Three panels without installation of the simplest door they have...$2,500.
hang a curtain.

Another good source for room dividers would be a company called http://www.draksonline.co.uk, I have used these for many different houses and there quality is outstanding.

These offer some fantastic solutions and I also believe they have a partner within the usa which I will see if I can find some more information on.

Another good source for room dividers would be a company called http://www.draksonline.co.uk I have used these for many different houses and there quality is outstanding.

These offer some fantastic solutions and I also believe they have a partner within the usa which I will see if I can find some more information on.

(Sorry, I broke the link, please delete the one above)