Cloisons

Cloisons are interior partitions used in buildings to divide spaces without bearing structural loads. They create rooms, define circulation, and influence light, acoustics, and privacy. Cloisons are typically non-structural; the building’s main frame carries the loads, while the partitions rely on their own framing or surrounding elements for stability.

Common materials include gypsum board (drywall), plaster, brick, concrete, glass, and wood. They are usually framed with metal studs or timber, and finished with plaster, plasterboard, glazing, or other surface coverings. Cloisons can be designed to provide varying levels of acoustic and fire resistance, depending on thickness, material, and construction details.

Types of cloisons include fixed partitions integrated into the interior envelope, and movable or modular partitions that can be rearranged to reconfigure spaces. Glass or translucent cloisons are used to preserve light and visibility while maintaining separation. Some cloisons are designed as fire-rated or sound-insulating assemblies to meet local building codes and performance requirements.

In architecture and interior design, cloisons enable flexible space planning in offices, residences, and public buildings. They can be unobtrusive, blending with finishes, or act as prominent design elements with integrated storage, shelving, or decorative panels. Renovation projects often employ cloisons to modify layouts with minimal disruption to structure.

Historically, interior partitions have evolved from simple masonry walls to modern dry- and wet-process systems. The term is widely used in French-speaking construction documentation and has been adopted in English to describe interior walls that do not carry structural loads.