What is Vastu — and Why it Matters for your Home
Vastu Shastra is an ancient architectural and spatial design system that seeks to harmonise homes with natural energies. It proposes that every home carries an energy field, and that by arranging rooms, elements, entrances and furnishings according to certain directions and principles, a living space can support positivity, balance and well‑being.
At its core, Vastu is about aligning the five essential elements — earth, fire, water, air and space — so that energy flows freely, naturally and beneficially within a home.
Applying Vastu doesn’t necessarily mean building from scratch. Many principles can be adapted to existing homes through smart layout choices, lighting, furniture placement, and decluttering — making it relevant even in modern flats or suburban houses.
Basic Vastu Principles for Layout and Energy Flow
Entrance & Entryway: The main door is considered the gateway for energy entering the home. Ideally, it should face north, east or north‑east — directions believed to invite growth, prosperity and good energy. The entrance should be well-lit, welcoming and free from clutter.
Central Space (Brahmasthan): The centre of a home — often referred to as the Brahmasthan — should remain open and uncluttered. Avoid placing heavy furniture, appliances or structural obstructions in this zone to ensure energy flows smoothly through the house.
Room Placement According to Function:
- Kitchen → southeast (the fire zone) for healthy cooking and nourishment.
- Master bedroom → southwest — promoting stability, rest and emotional well‑being.
- Living or communal spaces → northeast or north for natural light, openness and ease of social flow.
Natural Light, Ventilation & Airflow: Maximum natural light and cross‑ventilation align with Vastu’s emphasis on healthy energy flow. Large windows, well-placed openings and uncluttered spaces encourage airflow, brightness and connection with the outdoors.
Soft Lines, Smooth Layouts: Avoid sharp corners or overcrowded layouts that disrupt energy flow. Instead, favour open, rectangular or square rooms, gentle lines, balanced proportions, and uncluttered central areas.
Bringing Vastu into South African Interiors
For South African homes — whether a Cape Town flat, a Pretoria townhouse or a Johannesburg villa — Vastu offers a thoughtful framework to blend practicality, wellness and style.
In a climate where sunlight and outdoor‑indoor flow matter, emphasising natural light, good ventilation and uncluttered central space dovetails beautifully with both Vastu wisdom and contemporary design.
Small adjustments — like repositioning a sofa to face north or east, keeping the centre of the living area open, orienting a bed south‑west for restful sleep, or locating kitchen appliances toward the southeast — can make an existing home feel more harmonious and grounded.
Even decor choices can follow Vastu guidance: choose natural materials — wood, plants, light fabrics — and avoid heavy clutter, sharp shapes or harsh contrasts that interrupt energy flow.
Well‑being, Flow and Intention
The benefit of designing with Vastu in mind goes beyond aesthetics. A Vastu‑aligned home can improve physical comfort, mental clarity and overall family harmony. Spacious, well-lit and balanced interiors support better sleep, healthier routines, smoother interactions and healthier energy — especially in busy modern lives.
By consciously designing with direction, light, ventilation and openness in mind, a home can become more than a shelter — it becomes a space that supports your rhythm, your mood and your deeper sense of balance.
Credits
Interior design: Vastu Interior Design, Instagram: @rina_vastu
Images: Vigo Jansons, Instagram: @vigojansons
Production by Karine Monié, Instagram: @karinemonie
