Feng Shui, Vastu and other spatial philosophies: practices from China and India in modern interiors

Modern interiors are not only a matter of aesthetics, functionality or the latest design trends. Today, people increasingly strive to turn their homes and working environments into places of strength, harmony, and inspiration. This is why spatial philosophies such as the Chinese Feng Shui and the Indian Vastu are becoming ever more popular today.

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese art of organising space in such a way as to ensure the free flow of Qi energy. According to this philosophy, the correct placement of furniture, colours and decorative elements can significantly improve a person’s life, attracting luck and prosperity. Feng Shui has become popular in the modern world thanks to its simple and comprehensible principles. For example, avoiding sharp corners, using soft rounded shapes, thoughtful lighting, and selecting colours depending on the purpose of the room.

The Indian spatial philosophy of Vastu is less well known in the West, yet its principles are just as profound and effective. Vastu is based on the harmonious interaction of the five elements – fire, water, earth, air and ether – and the correct orientation of buildings with respect to the cardinal directions. Vastu teaches us to consider the placement of rooms, furniture and decor in relation to the north, east, south and west in order to maximise the potential of a home or workplace.

People who rely on Vastu actively apply its techniques in organising the interiors of their homes and working spaces.

For example, in the workplace, it is better to orient the desk so that a person faces north-east – this direction is considered the most favourable for intellectual work and creativity.

At home, it is worth considering Vastu principles when arranging furniture. It is auspicious when mirrors are placed on eastern walls (they must never be hung on western walls). The kitchen stove should be located in the south-east of your home. It is beneficial if the entrance to the flat is on the north or east. These directions are also ideal for window placement.

As for modern realities, the integration of spatial philosophies into interior design is becoming simpler and more accessible thanks to professionals who study and adapt ancient knowledge to contemporary living conditions. Feng Shui and Vastu complement each other perfectly, offering a flexible approach to spatial organisation that takes into account the individual characteristics of each person and their lifestyle.

Many well-known architects and designers today recognise the value of these philosophies and actively incorporate them into their projects. As a result, spaces designed according to Feng Shui and Vastu principles become not only visually appealing but also maximally comfortable for living, promoting both physical and emotional well-being.

Thus, Feng Shui and Vastu cease to be merely exotic concepts from Asia and become part of a global approach to creating harmonious, inspiring, and efficient environments. Practical experience and the results of applying these philosophies prove that attentiveness to the space around us is the key to a qualitatively new life.

Tatyana Bagrintseva, a resident of the Resource Centre for New Media and a member of the BRICS Bloggers Team project, provided the material.

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