16 inches is standard, and for a reason. 16 inches divides nicely into 48 and 96, and 48 and 96 inches is how wide and long most building materials come in, like drywall and panelling. If you make them "a little" further apart, the edges of the drywall or panelling will not end up on the studs. You could make them 2 feet apart, but why would you? You will not save much money, you won't save much time, and your wall material will not be supported properly. If someone leans on the wall, the drywall or panelling will bend.

I have a deck that some idiot built with 2 foot spacing on the floor joists. Saved himself about $20 and an hour or so at most, and the deck bows when you walk on it. No way would I have more than 6 people on it at one time and they'd better not be big people. Fixing it will take a third as long as building a whole new deck. If you're going to build, build the right way the first time

I think 16 inches center would be perfect then also you should to check it our with your local building codes. One more think you can do is to contact any local builder who can give you the exact idea according to your location. Try to contact any experienced & professional one to deal with this matter.

The normal stud spacing is not 16 inches apart, it is 16 inches center to center. Since this is not going to be a weight bearing wall but simply a divider, You could probably get by with 24 inch centers. Though it would be wise to check the local building codes first.

Go with the 16 inches center to center. This way 4 foot wide sheets of drywall or paneling will line up perfect. Your only other choice is to go to 24 inches, but that may be weak support.

You have to check your local building codes.

I'm building a room in my basement and need to know how far can the studs be a apart. The room is 26x17 with 8 foot ceilings. Is 16 inches standard or could I go a little farther apart and it still be done right. Thanks!