This paper addresses the optimal design of dividing wall distillation column which is rapidly applied in a variety of chemical processes over recent several years because of its high energy saving efficiency. A general dividing wall column model which can cope with the heat transfer through the dividing wall is developed using rigorous computer simulation. Based on the simulation model, the effects of the internal recycle flow distribution around the dividing wall and the heat transfer across the dividing wall on overall system performance are investigated. An improved column design method is suggested to utilize the heat transfer through the wall. The suggested method is compared with the existing method via simulation study in which the proposed design shows improved energy saving result.