Guide

Vastu Tips for a New Home: A Practical Checklist

Vastu Shastra is the traditional Indian system of home design. You do not have to rebuild for it: most of its advice concerns how you place and use rooms, light and objects. This checklist covers the essentials.

The entrance

The main door is where energy enters. North, east and north-east entrances are traditionally favoured. Keep the entrance bright, clean and clutter-free, use a sturdy door that opens clockwise, and add a nameplate. Avoid a dustbin or shoe rack right at the door.

Kitchen and dining

The south-east is the fire corner, so it is the classic place for the stove, and the cook traditionally faces east. Keep water (sink) and fire (stove) apart. Place the dining table in the west or east of the home and sit facing east or north.

Bedrooms

The master bedroom suits the south-west. Sleep with your head toward the south or east, avoid a mirror facing the bed and avoid electronics near your head. Keep the area under the bed free of clutter.

Puja room and living room

The north-east is the most sacred corner and suits the puja room. It should be clean and light, not under a staircase or next to a toilet. The living room does well in the north, east or north-east, with heavy furniture toward the south and west.

Simple remedies instead of rebuilding

Decluttering, opening windows for sunlight, using calm colours, placing plants in the north or east and keeping the north-east open are the easiest adjustments. Vastu is a cultural tradition, so treat it as a guide to a calm, orderly home.

Frequently asked questions

Astrology, tarot, numerology and related practices are offered for reflection and entertainment and are not medical, legal or financial advice.