There are open shelving pieces that would work. Do you have some pictures of the space so we here can better help you?

I would not put tall bookcases standing that way with little kids around. Maybe something 30 inches tall or less.

You can get open units like these that are used for that purpose. Somthing like this:

markor

Where are you thinking of putting them in your room? Around the kid's play area where it is now?

I would be careful about doing too much to visually close off parts of the room - it will end up feeling more crowded and less open and light-filled.

I don't recall, tho I am sure you told us in another thread - what are the dimensions of the room?

Why don't you anchor something like columns that visually divides the spaces but are anchored such it poses no danger.

Hmmm...I was just having a few thoughts. Actually, rethinking my space I like the way it is set up now (I've tweaked it with the help your kindness!). I was previously upset by the openness of my kitchen/DR/LR and how I can see all the kid stuff when sitting at the dining table. HOWEVER, after talking to some other moms I realized that the play area is in ideal location- I can make sure my girls are playing safely while I work away in the kitchen. So, I'm leaving the area as is for now (safety first!).

I did have one thought that I could perhaps put two bookcases back to back to give more storage for the play area and someplace to put decorative stuff for the DR area. I think perhaps it is a bad idea. I think for now I'll look into getting storage units/bookcases that have doors on them. That way I can just stuff the clutter in there and shut the door.
Astrid

Here is a link that might be useful: to my previous thread