My living room has very high ceiling which is nice because the hot air stays up there. I do however block certain rooms. I use a spring/tension pole with a sheet hung over it, across the doorway of the bedroom. I only open the vent in there to let in the AC. Kitchen, bathroom (always closed door...well cracked open for kitty box access) and living room are hotter than heck but I spend my time in the bedroom watching TV or eating dinner or reading. Thank God for the huge trees that block me from direct sunlight (satelite TV too but you gotta pick you battles) I keep moist washclothes in the fridge to wipe my neck and forehead. I have longish hair so a hair clip to keep my hair off my neck is essential.
Claudia