What is a knee wall?

A knee wall is a short wall typically found in a half-story space, such as an attic or loft, where the ceiling is slanted. Knee walls are used to support the rafters and can help define the space and provide additional structural support.

Knee walls are often built into the angle of the roof and can be used for storage, as a partition between rooms, or to create a barrier for insulation purposes. They are typically around 3-4 feet in height and are often finished with drywall or paneling.

In older homes, knee walls were commonly used to create cozy alcoves or nooks in rooms with sloped ceilings. Nowadays, knee walls are still utilized for their practicality and can be a versatile design element in homes with attic or loft spaces.