How to apply Vaastu Shastra to every room in your home

Do you want your living spaces to radiate with positive energy and harmony? The ancient Indian philosophy of Vaastu Shastra might hold the key. This revered design practice focuses on strategically arranging your space and furniture to create a balanced and harmonious environment. 

Arranging furniture according to Vaastu Shastra allows you to create open and welcoming spaces by positioning furniture and household items in tune with the cardinal directions. Similar to the practise of Feng Shui, these steps are believed to optimize the flow of cosmic energy, fostering a sense of wellbeing and peace in your home.

Whether you're interested in traditional design philosophies or simply looking for fresh home design ideas, these expert tips can help you craft a living space that’s both aesthetically pleasing and aligned with Vaastu principles.

How to apply Vaastu Shastra to every room in your home

Below, we've explained how to align your living spaces with these ancient guidelines to foster a sense of balance, tranquility, and prosperity in every corner of your home.

1. Entryways

'Ideally, the entryway should face a favorable direction,' says Shreya Patel, director of Travel Portal Solution. 'Either north, northeast, or east.' It is also advisable to follow these placement tips:

• Avoid placing obstacles or sharp objects near the entrance as it may obstruct the flow of energy.
• Keep heavy furniture, shoes, outerwear, or clutter away from blocking the entrance as they obstruct the positive energy entering the home. Instead, consider incorporating designated storage areas to keep this space organized. This Arturs Upholstered Storage Bench from Wayfair would work well.
• If you have mirrors in an entryway, Vaastu principles say you should hang them so that they do not directly face the entrance, as this may bounce back energy in a negative manner. This is similar to the principles of entryway Feng Shui.

2. Living room

'The living room should face the north, east, northeast, or northwest,' says Karina Newman, home expert and owner of iBuyers. 

'The furniture arrangement in living areas should foster positive interactions and conversations, with seating placed to provide a clear view of the entrance,' adds Georgina Ross, interior designer and founder of Simply Tablecloths. 'This aligns with Vaastu principles and also creates a welcoming atmosphere.' 

You may also wish to consider the following:

• Placing sofas and armchairs diagonally across from each other can encourage lively conversations while maintaining a balanced energy flow.
• Placing heavy furniture items in the west or southwest direction of the living room is considered auspicious. The sofa should be arranged against the north or the east wall if possible.
• The TV unit should be installed on the southeast side of the living room. 
• If connected to the living room, the dining area should be positioned to the east or southeast of the living room and close to the kitchen. 

3. Kitchen

• The southeast corner of a home is considered the ideal location for the kitchen. This is because it is associated with the cardinal element of fire (Agni).
• Additionally, Vaastu principles suggest that the cook should face east while cooking. This will dictate where you should place the oven and stove. You should also avoid placing the stove directly in line with the kitchen entrance.
• Avoid clutter in your kitchen. These items may prevent the flow of positive energy. 

4. Dining areas

If possible, the dining room should be separate from the kitchen,' says Shreya Patel. 'The dining table should ideally be positioned in the west or south to promote family bonding.'

'Ensure the dining table is rectangular or square in shape, as these forms align with Vaastu principles,' she continues. 'Also, avoid placing a mirror or television in the dining area, as they can distract from the act of enjoying meals and conversations.'

5. Bedrooms

Studies by the Journal of Environmental Psychology suggest that Vaastu-compliant homes have lower stress levels and improved sleep quality, making this a great design principle for your bedrooms. 

• According to Vaastu Shastra principles, the bed should be placed in the southwest corner of the room to enhance stability and a good night's sleep. Avoid positioning it under a beam or directly against a wall shared with a bathroom. These arrangements are believed to disrupt the harmonious flow of energy.
• 'Bedroom storage should be placed in the south-west direction of your room,' says Karina Newman. 
• 'The closets can be placed along the south or west walls, and their doors should open towards the east or north.' 
• The dressing table should be in the south or west, as this is believed to create a positive energy flow.
• The air conditioner, TV set, dehumidifiers, and other electrical gadgets can be placed southeast of the bedroom. However, it is interesting to note that Feng Shui bedroom principles discourage the use of electronics in bedrooms altogether. 
• Finally, according to Vaastu Shastra, placing mirrors in the bedroom is a mistake because they may disturb sleep patterns.

6. Home office

'If you have a home office, position the desk in the northern or eastern part of the room,' suggests Shreya Patel. 'This allows natural light to illuminate the workspace and fosters a productive environment.'

Place a study table in the northeast corner for improved concentration and focus, and try to avoid clutter on your desk, as it hampers clarity and creativity.

Remember, these Vaastu principles are only guidelines. It goes without saying that you can only align your furniture with the cardinal elements and directions if your space allows for these changes. However, simple acts like decluttering your dining room or deciding whether or not to have a TV in your bedroom can all have a positive impact on your living spaces.