Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture, provides comprehensive guidelines for designing and constructing buildings that foster health, prosperity, and well-being. While many principles focus on orientation and room placement, the fundamental shape and structure of a building are equally critical. The geometry of a home or office influences the flow of energy and can significantly impact the occupants. According to Vastu, irregular shapes or misaligned structures can disrupt this flow, leading to various challenges. However, the science also offers practical remedies to alleviate these effects. Understanding the classification of building shapes and the specific impacts associated with them is the first step toward creating a balanced living or working environment. This article explores the effects of building shapes according to Vastu, the classification of different layouts, and the principles for remedying non-compliant structures.
The Impact of Building Shape and Layout
The shape of a dwelling is a primary factor in determining how energy interacts with the space. Vastu Shastra emphasizes that the design should align with natural forces to promote positivity. When a building’s shape deviates from ideal geometric forms, it can create imbalances that affect the residents.
The Influence of Male Dominance in Constricted Structures
Specific architectural shapes can have pronounced effects on the gender dynamics within a household. For instance, in houses or bedrooms where the male portions of the structure are constricted in size, the energy may favor male dominance. Conversely, if the construction is such that these male-associated areas are severely limited, it is believed that there may not be any male folk in the household, or they could face adverse circumstances such as death. The presence of a main door on the constricted side can mitigate these effects, particularly if only one family resides in the property. In such a scenario, the adverse impacts are minimized. If the construction or bedroom is designed in a way that maximizes the influence of male folk, and the main door is located on the constricted side with a single family living there, the effects are similarly minimized.
General Effects of Irregular Shapes
Buildings that are misaligned with cardinal directions and fall outside the standard classifications can experience effects ranging from minimal to severe. The extent of the impact depends on the specific shape of the house, the roofline, and the directional orientation. This is a highly detailed subject with many possible permutations and combinations. Therefore, it is essential to consult an experienced Vastu consultant for a thorough analysis of the property. The nature of the building’s use also plays a role; for example, the analysis for an office building that is sparingly occupied will differ from that of a residence for a family.
Classifying Building Shapes: The Shaala System
Vastu Truth provides a classification system for building shapes, moving beyond the common assumption that a house must be square or rectangular to be compliant. This system helps in understanding the inherent energy of a structure and applying appropriate remedies.
EkaShaala: The Single-Unit Design
The most common type of house, particularly in the USA, is the "EkaShaala" or single-unit design. These are typically square or rectangular in shape. The rules often seen in general Vastu articles—such as having a higher roof on the South-West corner and a lower elevation in the North-East corner—primarily apply to EkaShaala homes. When implemented properly, this design allows for a clear application of directional principles.
DwiShaala: The Two-Sided Structure
A house that is "L" shaped is classified as "DwiShaala," meaning it has two sides or faces two directions. This shape introduces complexity as it combines two distinct directional energies.
ThriShaala: The Three-Sided Structure
Buildings shaped like "U" or "C" are referred to as "ThriShaala," indicating three sides. These structures require careful evaluation to balance the energy flow across the three exposed sections.
ChathurShaala: The Four-Sided Courtyard Design
A "ChathurShaala" or "Chatush Shala" is a building that has an open courtyard in the middle portion. This design is considered highly auspicious in Vastu, as the central open space allows for the circulation of positive energy and connects the inhabitants with nature.
Core Vastu Principles for Harmonious Design
Regardless of shape, certain foundational principles of Vastu Shastra must be observed to ensure the well-being of the occupants.
Orientation and the Sacred Northeast
The orientation of the house is a paramount principle. The northeast direction is considered the holiest, and the built area should ideally be designed in the southwest corner of the plot, leaving the northeast corner lighter and open. The main entrance should face North, East, or Northeast to invite good luck, prosperity, and peace. The northeast corner is also the most suitable location for a puja room (prayer room). It is advisable not to place anything above the prayer room, as this carries a negative connotation of people walking over the sacred space. Inside the puja room, the deities should face the West.
The Importance of the Brahmsthan
In Vastu Shastra for houses, the central square of the building grid is known as the Brahmsthan. This area must be kept empty and open to the sky. Designers often incorporate a central courtyard with plantations to fulfill this requirement, which helps circulate positivity throughout the house.
Plot Selection and Layout
The location and shape of the plot itself are crucial. The plot should be level and either rectangular or square. Irregular shapes or slopes can cause negative energy flow and disturb the balance of the house.
Remedial Measures for Non-Compliant Shapes
When a house shape is not a square or rectangle, it does not necessarily mean it is uninhabitable. An expert Vastu consultant can assist with practical Vastu shape remedies to alleviate the negative effects of a bad design or construction.
The Role of Expert Consultation
The missing piece in many online articles is the failure to properly classify a house shape before offering remedies. A professional consultant first classifies the building into its appropriate Shaala type (EkaShaala, DwiShaala, ThriShaala, or ChathurShaala). Based on this classification, along with the property's direction, topography, and the occupants' needs, a customized report is generated. This report explains what needs to be done to achieve the desired level of Vastu compliance. The cost of implementing these remedies is a tiny fraction of the property's value.
Practical Application of Remedies
If there is any doubt that something is not working right in a house, it is wise to seek professional help. Just as one would not call a doctor for a high fever and ask for medication over the phone, a Vastu issue requires a physical inspection. A right consultant would ask to visit the site for a proper checkup. If a consultant cannot provide satisfactory remedial results for a property, they may advise the client to look for another property. The goal is to provide practical solutions based on Vastu engineering principles, not to up-sell products. The focus is on making the right choices in valuable lifetime investments.
Conclusion
The shape and orientation of a building are foundational elements of Vastu Shastra that directly influence the lives of its occupants. From the single-unit EkaShaala to the more complex ThriShaala, each shape carries a unique energy signature that must be understood and balanced. By adhering to core principles such as orienting the entrance toward auspicious directions, keeping the Brahmsthan open, and selecting a regular plot, a harmonious environment can be created. For structures that deviate from ideal forms, the wisdom of Vastu offers practical, customized remedies. Ultimately, the goal is to create a space that supports health, prosperity, and spiritual well-being, and this is best achieved through the guidance of an experienced and knowledgeable Vastu consultant.