What Is Vastu Shastra, What Is Its Purpose, And Why It's Important In Interior Design?
Key principles of Vastu Shastra to consider when designing the interior of a home
What is the relevance of directions and elements in Vastu Shastra and why is considered so crucial?
How to Apply Vastu Shastra in Modern Interior Design Projects?
Advanced Tips Related To Vastu Shastra That You Can Incorporate Into Interior Design
What Is Vastu Shastra, What Is Its Purpose, And Why It's Important In Interior Design?
Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian architectural science that plays a significant role in interior design. Derived from the Sanskrit words "Vastu" meaning 'dwelling or building' and "Shastra" meaning 'science or knowledge',
Vastu Shastra provides guidelines for creating harmonious and balanced living spaces. The purpose of Vastu Shastra is to create living and working spaces that are in harmony with cosmic energies and the natural world. It aims to enhance well-being, prosperity, and spiritual growth by arranging buildings and rooms according to specific principles that promote positive energy flow, health, success, and positive relationships.
The principles of Vastu Shastra are based on the concept of aligning the design and layout with the natural forces and elements of the universe. By combining Vastu principles with interior design, one can create an environment that promotes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, a sense of balance, harmony, and positivity.
Here are some key principles of Vastu Shastra to consider when designing the interior of a home
Entrance Vastu Shastra
The main entrance should ideally be in the north, east, or northeast direction, as these are considered auspicious. Try to avoid placing the entrance in the southwest direction.
Living Room Vastu Shastra
The living room is a gathering space and should ideally be located in the northeast or north direction. The furniture should be placed in a manner that allows for free movement and encourages interaction.
Bedrooms Vastu Shastra
The master bedroom is best located in the southwest direction, while other bedrooms can be in the northwest or southeast direction. The bed should be placed against a solid wall, and avoid placing it under a beam.
Kitchen Vastu Shastra
The kitchen is considered the source of nourishment, so it should be located in the southeast direction. The cook should face east while preparing food. It is advisable to try keeping the kitchen clean, clutter-free, and well-ventilated.
Dining Area Vastu Shastra
The dining area is best placed in the west or northwest direction. The dining table should be positioned in a way that allows people to face east or west while eating.
Bathroom Vastu Shastra
Bathrooms should ideally be located in the west or northwest direction. It is advisable to have proper ventilation, and to keep the bathroom clean and hygienic.
Study or Home Office Vastu Shastra
The study room or home office is best located in the northeast or north direction. Its best to place the desk in a way that allows you to face east or north while working.
Miscellaneous
This includes colors, lighting and clutter within your house. Try to choose colors that create a sense of harmony and that are soothing. Its good to let natural light to enter the home as much as possible to create a pleasant environment. Clutter can hinder the flow of positive energy, hence it is recommended to regularly declutter.
What is the relevance of directions and elements in Vastu Shastra and why is considered so crucial?
Here is an overview of how directions and elements are interconnected in Vastu Shastra:
North (N) as per Vastu Shastra
The north direction is associated with the water element. It symbolizes prosperity, abundance, and opportunities. Placing water-related elements such as water fountains or aquariums in the north direction can enhance the flow of positive energy and attract wealth.
Northeast (NE) as per Vastu Shastra
The northeast direction is associated with the element of water and is considered highly auspicious. It represents knowledge, spirituality, and enlightenment. Placing a puja (prayer) room, meditation space, or study area in the northeast corner can promote tranquility and wisdom.
East (E) as per Vastu Shastra
The east direction is associated with the element of air. It represents new beginnings, vitality, and growth. Placing windows or openings in the east direction allows the entry of fresh air and natural sunlight, creating a vibrant and energizing atmosphere.
Southeast (SE) as per Vastu Shastra
The southeast direction is associated with the element of fire. It symbolizes energy, passion, and transformation. Placing the kitchen in the southeast direction aligns with the fire element, as cooking involves the use of fire. A well-designed and organized kitchen in the southeast can enhance positive energy and nourishment.
South (S) as per Vastu Shastra
The south direction is associated with the element of fire. It represents fame, reputation, and strength. Placing the main entrance or living room in the south direction can evoke a sense of warmth and dynamism.
Southwest (SW) as per Vastu Shastra
The southwest direction is associated with the earth element. It symbolizes stability, strength, and support. Placing the master bedroom or heavy furniture in the southwest direction can promote a sense of security and grounding.
West (W) as per Vastu Shastra
The west direction is associated with the element of earth. It represents creativity, partnerships, and social connections. Placing the dining area or creative spaces like an art studio in the west direction can encourage a harmonious atmosphere and social interactions.
Northwest (NW) as per Vastu Shastra
The northwest direction is associated with the air element. It represents networking, helpfulness, and assistance. Placing the guest room or study area in the northwest direction can promote positive interactions and collaborative energies.
Vastu Shastra offers several benefits and advantages when applied to interior design. Here are some of the key advantages:
Positive Energy Flow
Harmony and Balance
Optimal Space Utilization
Health and Well-being
Improved Financial Prosperity
Enhanced Relationships
Spiritual Well-being
How to Apply Vastu Shastra in Modern Interior Design Projects
Open Floor Plans: The center of the house (the Brahmasthan) should be kept open and clutter-free. This aligns with modern open floor plan designs that promote seamless living spaces.
Minimalistic Design: Vastu encourages decluttering and avoiding unnecessary obstructions, which fits perfectly with the minimalist approach to interior design.
Natural Light and Airflow: In modern homes, large windows, skylights, and sliding glass doors can be placed in Vastu-recommended directions to allow maximum natural light and airflow.
Green Design: Vastu emphasizes the use of natural materials and promoting harmony with nature. This aligns with eco-friendly interior design principles, where materials like wood, stone, and plants are incorporated into the design.
Advanced Tips Related To Vastu Shastra That You Can Incorporate Into Interior Design
1. Mirrors and Reflection
Avoid mirrors in the bedroom: Mirrors should not be placed directly opposite the bed as it can cause disturbances in sleep and lead to negative energy.
Placement in the living room: Mirrors should ideally be placed in the north or east direction to reflect positive energy. Avoid south-facing mirrors, as it may lead to financial losses.
2. Colors According to Vastu
Bedroom colors: Soft, calming colors like pastel blue, light pink, or earthy tones should be used in the master bedroom to promote peace and restfulness.
Kitchen colors: Bright, warm colors like red, orange, and yellow are ideal for the kitchen, representing the fire element. Avoid black and dark shades.
Living room colors: Light tones like white, cream, light blue, or green can be used for the living room to create a welcoming and balanced environment.
3. Lighting Vastu Tips
Natural light: Allow as much natural light as possible, especially from the east. Windows in this direction can bring in early morning sunlight, which is considered highly beneficial.
Artificial lighting: In spaces like the living room and bedroom, soft, diffused lighting is preferred to create a soothing atmosphere. Avoid harsh or dim lighting as it can disturb energy flow.
Decorative lights: Placing decorative lighting like chandeliers in the center of the room is auspicious and promotes positive energy circulation.
4. Doors and Windows
Main door: The main entrance door should be the largest in the house, as it is considered the entry point for energy. It should open inwards and ideally be made of strong, durable wood.
Window placements: Windows should open outward and be placed in the east and north directions to allow fresh air and light to flow into the house. Avoid placing large windows in the southwest direction.
5. Furniture Arrangement
Living room: Heavy furniture like sofas should be placed in the southwest or west corner to provide stability, while lighter items can be placed in the northeast to maintain openness and flow.
Bedroom: The bed should be placed with the head towards the south or east, promoting better sleep quality and reducing stress. Avoid placing the bed directly under a beam.
6. Water Features
Aquariums and fountains: Water elements should be placed in the north or northeast direction to enhance prosperity and financial stability. Avoid placing them in the south or southwest as it may bring instability.
Indoor plants: Place indoor plants in the north or east to promote growth and positivity. Avoid thorny plants like cacti inside the house, as they are believed to attract negative energy.
7. Staircase Placement
Direction: Ideally, staircases should be located in the south, west, or southwest direction of the house. Avoid placing a staircase in the northeast corner, as this can block positive energy from entering the home.
Design: Staircases should move in a clockwise direction. Additionally, avoid placing a staircase directly in front of the main door, as it obstructs the flow of energy.
8. Storage Spaces
Southwest storage: The southwest corner is ideal for placing storage units, heavy cabinets, or safes, as it symbolizes strength and stability.
Avoid clutter: In line with Vastu, it’s important to avoid clutter in spaces like the northeast, as this can block the flow of positive energy. Declutter regularly to maintain balance and harmony.
9. Home Office or Study Room
Direction for success: The northeast or northwest is ideal for study rooms or home offices, as it promotes intellectual growth and career advancement. The person sitting at the desk should ideally face east or north for improved focus and productivity.
10. Temple or Prayer Room
Northeast direction: The prayer room or temple should be placed in the northeast corner of the house, which is considered the most auspicious. This direction is aligned with positive cosmic energy, encouraging peace and spirituality.
Materials and decor: Use natural materials like wood or marble for temple interiors, and keep the area well-lit and clutter-free.
Pro Tip: Incorporating these Vastu Shastra principles with modern design elements will help create aesthetically pleasing spaces that enhance energy flow and well-being. For custom Vastu-compliant interior designs, consult with Pescora Interior Design to ensure your space aligns with both style and ancient wisdom.
To learn more about Vastu Shastra and get help with your interior design, get in touch with us at Pescora Interior Design.
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