Vastu Shastra is a traditional Hindu system of design which literally translates into 'the science of architecture.' The system describes principles of spatial geometry based on structure, symmetry and directional alignments. When applied correctly, Vastu principles work to exude positive energy and radiance into your home.



Typically, for those who follow Vastu, incorporating the principles correctly into their homes and other spaces is extremely important. It's wise to enlist the help of a Vastu expert when doing up your home or office, as Vastu guidelines differ for areas; the entrance and hallway, for example, will have to be treated differently from the living room, bedroom and so on.



In a situation wherein making structural changes to a furnished rental home is not possible, you can instead create a Vastu-compliant environment by rearranging the decor and furniture. In an unfurnished rental, approaching space decor according to Vastu will help you tap into its power and bring energy and exuberance into your home.



In this piece, we focus on Vastu for city apartments as it is important for us, urban dwellers, to be familiar with some of the better-known and effective Vastu tips:

Place your furniture in the south or west side of the living room. Your sofa set should be rectangular or square-shaped, and should not touch the wall.

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Vastu suggests you have a square or rectangular-shaped dining table. Avoid an oval or round one.

Place your television on the south-east side of the living room.



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Paintings or poster art depicting violence, death, and birds such as the owl or the eagle are considered inauspicious. Instead, invest in art that evokes peaceful feelings.

Mirrors in the living room should face east or north, to eradicate negative energy.



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A mirror facing your bed is an absolute no-no. Place your dressing table along the same wall where your bed is.

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Do not place the bed in front of your bedroom door. Position it instead on the south or west side walls. Maintain a small distance from the wall. Sleep facing either the south, east or west, never towards the north. Avoid having a wrought iron bed; instead, sleep on a wooden one. Wood also adds a feeling of richness to your interiors.

It is good to have indoor plants as part of home decor, according to Vastu. Avoid cactus and bonsai plants, however.



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Never place statues with religious associations on the floor. In the absence of a dedicated puja room, place a small wooden temple in the north or east side of your home. Do not place the temple in your bedroom.