HOW TO BUILD A HOUSE AS PER VASTU SHASTRA

Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian science of architecture and design that aims to harmonize the built environment with natural forces. It combines principles of architecture, design, and astrology, focusing on directional alignments, spatial arrangements, and the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and space) to create balanced and prosperous living spaces.

Form: Vastu Purusha is often depicted as a human figure lying face down, with his limbs extended in different directions, symbolizing the various cardinal directions.
Directions: Each part of his body corresponds to specific directions:
Head: Northeast (Ishan)
Feet: Southwest (Nairutya)
Arms:
Southeast (Agni) – Right arm
Northwest (Vayavya) – Left arm
Torso: Center of the plot
Significance in Vastu Shastra
Spatial Arrangement: The layout of a building must respect the position of Vastu Purusha. For instance, the most auspicious activities (like prayer or meditation) should be in the northeast, while heavy structures (like storage or toilets) should be in the southwest.

Energy Flow: Vastu Purusha’s orientation influences the flow of energy within the space. Aligning structures according to his position helps in channeling positive energy and minimizing negativity.

Construction Guidelines: The placement of rooms, doors, windows, and other elements is dictated by Vastu Purusha’s directions. Ignoring these guidelines may lead to disharmony, affecting the inhabitants’ well-being.

Connection to Nature: Vastu Purusha emphasizes the importance of natural elements like air, light, and water. Ensuring that buildings are aligned with these elements enhances the overall energy of the space.

Key Directions and Their Significance

1. North (Uttar): Associated with wealth and prosperity (ruled by the deity Kuber).
2. South (Dakshin): Represents stability and support (ruled by Yama).
3. East (Purva): Associated with enlightenment and positivity (ruled by Indra).
4. West (Paschim): Represents strength and support (ruled by Varuna).
5. Northeast (Ishan): Considered the most auspicious direction, linked to spirituality and meditation.
6. Northwest (Vayavya): Related to air and change; good for guest rooms.
7. Southeast (Agni): Related to fire; ideal for kitchens.
8. Southwest (Nairutya): Represents stability; best for master bedrooms.

Ideal Location of Rooms According to Vastu

1. Living Room:
   • Direction: Northeast or North
   • Details: Should be airy and well-lit; comfortable seating arrangements.
2. Kitchen:
   • Direction: Southeast (Agni) or Northwest (for apartments)
   • Details: The cook should face East while cooking. Avoid placing the kitchen directly under the bedroom.
3. Bedroom:
   • Direction: Southwest for the master bedroom; Northwest for guest rooms.
   • Details: Beds should be placed in the southwest corner of the room. Avoid mirrors facing the bed.
4. Study Room:
   • Direction: Northeast or East
   • Details: A quiet and well-lit area, with the study desk facing East or North for better concentration.
5. Toilet/Bathroom:
   • Direction: Northwest or Southeast (not directly in the center).
   • Details: Avoid placing toilets in the Northeast and ensure they are well-ventilated.
6. Porch/Entrance:
   • Direction: East or North
   • Details: Should be spacious and welcoming, ideally with a threshold that is higher than the ground level.
7. Stairs:
   • Direction: Southwest or South (going clockwise).
   • Details: Avoid placing stairs in the Northeast, as it can lead to instability.
8. Office:
   • Direction: West or Southwest
   • Details: Ideally, the office desk should face East or North. This promotes better productivity.

Additional Tips

• Colors: Use soothing colors according to the purpose of the room. For example, light shades in bedrooms promote calmness.
• Ventilation and Light: Ensure all rooms are well-ventilated and receive natural light.
• Furniture Arrangement: This should promote a free flow of energy, avoiding clutter.
• Sacred Spaces: An altar or prayer room is best placed in the Northeast corner of the house.

Implementing Vastu principles can help create a harmonious environment that promotes health, wealth, and happiness. It’s essential to consider the specific layout and geographical context of the home while applying these guidelines. If you’re planning a new construction or renovation, consulting a Vastu expert can provide personalized insights based on your specific needs and local conditions.

Table of Do’s and Don’ts for Room Locations

Room	Do’s	Don’ts
Living Room	Place in Northeast or North	Avoid the South and Southwest corners
Kitchen	Locate in Southeast or Northwest	Avoid Northeast and directly above a bedroom
Bedroom	Master bedroom in Southwest	Avoid Northeast and facing the entrance
Study Room	Place in Northeast or East	Avoid South and West
Toilet	Locate in the Northwest or Southeast	Avoid the Northeast and center of the house
Porch	Position in East or North	Avoid South and Southwest entrances
Stairs	Place in Southwest or South (clockwise)	Avoid Northeast direction
Office	Locate in the West or Southwest	Avoid East or North-facing entrances
Pooja Room	Position in Northeast	Avoid South and West
Dining Room	Place in West or East	Avoid Southwest and Southeast
Balcony	Place in Northeast or East	Avoid South and Southwest
Water Tank	Position on the roof in the Southwest or West	Avoid Northeast and Southeast
Open-to-Sky Space	Best in the center or Northeast	Avoid South and Southwest
Taps (Water Sources)	Locate in the Northeast or East	Avoid South and West
Bed	Position in the Southwest	Avoid the Northeast and face the door
Office Chair	Desk/chair facing East or North	Avoid facing South

Additional Tips

• Natural Light: Ensure ample natural light in all rooms to enhance energy flow.
• Furniture Arrangement: Keep spaces uncluttered; arrange furniture to allow easy movement.
• Colors: Use colors that suit the room’s purpose; softer tones in bedrooms and vibrant colors in living areas.
• Sacred Spaces: Include a pooja room in the Northeast for spiritual activities.

Additional Guidelines

1. Living Room: Ensure it’s spacious and well-ventilated; natural light is crucial.
2. Kitchen: The cook should face East; ensure proper ventilation.
3. Bedroom: Headboard should be against a solid wall; avoid placing beds under beams.
4. Study Room: Quiet area with a clutter-free desk for concentration.
5. Toilet/Bathroom: Ensure privacy and good ventilation; avoid keeping it cluttered.
6. Pooja Room: Keep it clean and well-lit; include a small window for light.
7. Dining Room: Ensure it’s spacious for family gatherings; avoid dark corners.
8. Balcony: Use it as a relaxation space; avoid clutter.
9. Water Tank: Should be covered to prevent contamination; and maintain cleanliness.
10. Open-to-Sky Space: Good for plants; maintain cleanliness and avoid clutter.
11. Taps: Ensure easy access and proper drainage; avoid leaks.
12. Bed: Use a solid wooden bed; avoid placing it directly in line with the door.
13. Office Chair: Should be comfortable; position for optimal productivity.