The ancient science of Vastu Shastra provides a framework for creating harmonious living and working environments by aligning spaces with natural energies. When considering residential or commercial plots, the presence of roads on multiple sides significantly influences the flow of positive energy and the potential for prosperity. Among various plot types, a three-side open plot is often regarded as particularly auspicious, offering enhanced opportunities for growth and well-being when designed according to traditional principles. This guide explores the specific attributes of three-side open plots, foundational Vastu guidelines for site selection, and the integration of directional energies into modern home design for contemporary lifestyles, such as those found in the United States.
The core of Vastu lies in balancing the five elements—Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space—with the eight directions. For a plot, the layout and orientation are the first steps in this balance. A plot with roads on three sides, often referred to as a three-side open plot, is considered highly favorable because it allows for greater circulation of energy and light. However, the specific advantages are determined by which directions are open. Among these, plots with roads on the north, east, and west sides are categorized as A-Grade plots, ideal for both residential and commercial purposes. This configuration is believed to attract prosperity and positive vibrations. For such plots, an entrance in the east direction is considered ideal, as the east is associated with the rising sun, vitality, and new beginnings.
Selecting the right plot involves more than just observing road access. The shape, terrain, and soil quality are fundamental considerations. Ideal plot shapes are square and rectangular, as these forms promote stability and balance. Triangular or other irregular shapes are generally avoided as they can create energetic imbalances. The quality of the soil is also paramount; the land should have firm, dense soil. Plots with rocky or uneven terrain are not recommended as they can hinder the stable foundation required for a harmonious structure. Once a plot is chosen, accurate measurements of its length, breadth, and diagonals are essential. These measurements are not merely for construction purposes but are also used for advanced Vastu calculations that ensure the dimensions are in harmony with cosmic energies.
Determining the precise direction of the plot is a cornerstone of Vastu planning. A magnetic compass is the tool for this task, but one must be cautious of interference from electric lines or metal objects, which can distort the reading. The orientation of the home—whether it faces north, east, south, or west—directly affects the flow of energy to its occupants. North and east-facing homes are considered highly auspicious as they welcome maximum sunlight and positive energy throughout the day. While south and west-facing homes are often viewed with caution, Vastu provides specific adjustments and design strategies to mitigate any potential challenges and attract positive energy.
The main entrance, or Dwar, acts as the gateway for energy to enter the home. According to Vastu, there are 32 possible main entrances, calculated by dividing each of the four cardinal directions into nine padas (sections). The placement of the entrance within these padas is critical for its auspiciousness. For instance, in a north-facing house, entrances in the Soma, Bhallat, and Mukhya pada are considered favorable. For an east-facing house, the Jayant and Mahendra pada are auspicious. South-facing houses can benefit from entrances in the Vitatha and Grihakhat pada, while west-facing houses find favor with the Pushadant and Varun pada. Identifying the correct pada for the main entrance ensures that the home receives beneficial energy from the moment one steps inside.
The entire layout of the house is structured around the Vastu Purusha Mandala, a sacred geometric grid that represents the cosmic energies and the energy fields of the home. This mandala is the blueprint for placing every room and element within the structure, ensuring that each area resonates with its inherent purpose and directional energy. By superimposing the Vastu Purusha Mandala onto the plot, one can determine the most auspicious zones for different activities.
Applying these principles to modern home design, especially in contexts like the United States, requires a blend of traditional wisdom and contemporary functionality. The placement of key rooms within the home follows specific directional guidelines to promote health, prosperity, and harmony.
- Kitchen: The kitchen is governed by the Fire element and is best placed in the South-East direction. For those unable to place it there, the North-West is a secondary option. The person cooking should face East for positive energy.
- Dining Area: The dining room is ideally located near the kitchen in the East or North. Having breakfast or meals in the East or North allows the morning light to set a positive tone for the day. A dining space in the South-West corner should be avoided.
- Primary Bedroom: For stability and restful sleep, the primary bedroom should be in the South-West corner of the house. The headboard should be placed against the South or West wall, and the sleeper’s head should ideally face East or South while sleeping. It is advisable to avoid placing mirrors directly facing the bed. If closets have mirrors, they should be kept behind doors or covered at night.
- Children’s and Guest Bedrooms: These rooms are well-suited for the West or North directions. For children, a study desk should face East or North to enhance concentration, and the North-East corner of the room should be kept clear for play and reading.
- Home Office or Study: For a productive workspace, the North direction is associated with finance and data, while the East is linked to communication and marketing. The desk should face East or North, and a solid wall should be behind the chair to provide support and stability. The South-West corner of the office should be avoided for the main desk, as it can feel heavy and closed-in; this zone is better suited for storage cabinets.
- Puja (Prayer) Niche: The North-East corner of the home or room is the most sacred and ideal location for a prayer space. If not possible, the East is the next best option. The area should be kept elevated, clean, and free from adjacent bathroom or laundry walls.
- Bathrooms: The ideal locations for bathrooms are the North-West or South-East zones. Proper maintenance is crucial: exhaust fans should be functional, sealants must be fresh, and any leaks should be fixed promptly. The toilet lid should always be kept down.
- Staircases: A clockwise rise is preferred for staircases. They are best placed in the South or West quadrants of the building.
Beyond room placement, the dimensions of the home also play a role in maintaining energetic balance. Vastu Shastra includes a system for calculating auspicious measurements based on nine factors: Aya, Var, Ansha, Dravya, Vyaya, Nakshatra, Tithi, Yog, and Aayu. These calculations help ensure that the home’s proportions are in harmony with natural laws. For practical application, standard room sizes can be used as a guideline. For example, a bedroom can range from 3000 mm x 3600 mm (10 ft x 12 ft) to 3600 mm x 4800 mm (14 ft x 16 ft). A kitchen is typically between 2100 mm x 3000 mm (7 ft x 10 ft) and 3000 mm x 3600 mm (10 ft x 12 ft). A toilet or bathroom has a minimum size of 1200 mm x 2100 mm (4 ft x 7 ft), while a living room can be designed from 3600 mm x 4200 mm (12 ft x 14 ft) to 4200 mm x 4800 mm (14 ft x 16 ft). A dining room requires a minimum space of 3000 mm x 2400 mm (10 ft x 8 ft).
By carefully considering the plot selection, orientation, entrance placement, and the strategic arrangement of rooms within the home, individuals can create spaces that support their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The principles of Vastu Shastra offer a time-tested guide to designing environments that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also deeply aligned with the natural flow of energy, fostering health, prosperity, and harmony for all occupants.