Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture, offers a comprehensive framework for designing living spaces that harmonize with natural energies. The principles emphasize that the layout, orientation, and placement of rooms within a home can significantly influence the well-being, prosperity, and overall contentment of its inhabitants. According to traditional wisdom, a house plan is not merely a structural blueprint but the first foundation of a home, requiring careful consideration of directional energies, spatial balance, and functional placement.
The core philosophy suggests that properties built according to Vastu principles are well-ventilated, well-placed, and create a healthier environment. This approach integrates ancient architectural guidelines with modern construction needs, ensuring that the home supports a positive flow of energy. The process begins with selecting an appropriate plot and continues through the precise placement of every room, from the main entrance to the kitchen, bedrooms, and bathrooms. By aligning the home with the cardinal directions—North, South, East, and West—and their associated attributes, one can create a space that attracts fortune, health, and harmony.
The Foundation: Site Selection and Orientation
The journey of creating a Vastu-compliant home begins with the selection of the plot. The location and shape of the land have a profound impact on the Vastu compliance of the eventual structure. Ideal plots are rectangular or square in shape, as these forms provide a stable and balanced foundation. The slope of the land is also significant; a gentle slope towards the North or East is considered auspicious, as it allows for the natural flow of positive energies. It is essential to ensure the plot is free from natural or man-made obstacles, such as large trees, poles, or high-tension wires, which can obstruct the flow of light and energy.
Orientation is the next critical factor. The direction in which the main entrance faces determines the nature of energy entering the home. According to the principles, houses facing East, North, or Northeast are the most auspicious. These directions are associated with prosperity, health, and positive vibrations. For instance, an East-facing house is believed to attract good fortune, while a North-facing house is particularly beneficial for those in business or financial fields, as the North is ruled by Kubera, the God of wealth. Conversely, a South-facing house is often considered the most challenging, requiring specific and careful placement of the main door on an auspicious pada to mitigate potential negative effects.
Direction-Specific House Plans and Room Placement
Creating a Vastu-compliant floor plan requires a systematic approach to room placement based on the facing of the house. The following guidelines outline the ideal directional placement for key areas of the home, ensuring that each space supports its intended function while contributing to the overall harmony of the household.
North-Facing House Plan
North-facing homes are highly popular and considered extremely auspicious. The main entrance should ideally be in the North direction, with the 5th pada (step) being the most favorable. The living room is best situated in the Northeast, fostering a welcoming and positive atmosphere. Bedrooms can be located in the Northwest or Northeast. The kitchen, however, should be avoided in the Northeast corner; the Northwest or Northeast are acceptable alternatives as per some guidelines. Bathrooms should be placed in the Northwest or West. It is crucial to avoid cluttering the North-East or North sides of the house, as this is believed to negatively impact financial status and the development of children. Toilets and bedrooms must not be positioned in the North-East direction.
East-Facing House Plan
An East-facing house is one where the main entrance opens towards the East. This orientation is considered lucky and is believed to attract greater fortune, especially if the house is spacious. The main door should be placed in the East or Northeast. The living room is ideally located in the East or Northeast to capture the morning sun. Bedrooms are suitable for the Southeast or Northeast. The kitchen should be in the Southeast or East, aligning with the element of fire. Bathrooms are appropriately placed in the Southeast or East. The design should ensure large windows on the West side to allow ample sunlight and fresh air.
South-Facing House Plan
Constructing a South-facing house requires particular attention to Vastu principles. The main door must be placed on an auspicious pada to ensure positive energy entry. Bedrooms are best positioned in the North West, South West, North, or West directions. The kitchen and living room are typically placed in the Southeast or South. The placement of the main door is the most critical aspect of a South-facing plan.
West-Facing House Plan
For a West-facing house, the main entrance is located on the West or Northwest. The living room is ideally in the Northwest or West. Bedrooms are suitable for the Southwest or Northwest. The kitchen and bathrooms are best placed in the Northwest or West.
Special Considerations for Other Directions
For houses facing Northeast or Southeast, specific guidelines exist. A Northeast-facing house has its entrance in the North or Northeast, with the living room and kitchen in the Northeast. Bedrooms are in the Northeast or North. A Southeast-facing house has its entrance in the Southeast or East, with the living room, bedrooms, kitchen, and bathrooms all ideally situated in the Southeast or East. Similarly, for Southwest and Northwest-facing houses, the entrance and key rooms are placed in the respective directional zones (Southwest or South for the former, Northwest or North for the latter).
Key Principles for Interior Layout
Beyond the external orientation, the internal arrangement of the home is governed by specific principles designed to balance the five elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space).
Kitchen (The Fire Element)
The kitchen represents the Fire element and is a critical area for health and prosperity. The ideal location is the Southeast corner of the house. If not possible, the Northwest is an alternative. The person cooking should face East. It is essential to avoid placing the kitchen in the North-East, as this can create elemental conflict.
Master Bedroom (The Earth Element)
The master bedroom, representing stability, should be located in the Southwest corner of the house. This placement is believed to provide the head of the household with control, authority, and good health. Other bedrooms can be in the West or Northwest.
Prayer Room (The Spiritual Center)
The prayer or meditation room is a space for spiritual connection and should be located in the Northeast corner of the house. This zone, known as the "Ishanya" corner, is associated with divine energies. When placing idols, ensure they are in a space that points towards the southeast direction, and avoid any storage above the idols.
Water Elements
Water is a vital component of Vastu, symbolizing flow and prosperity. A water source, such as a pond, fountain, or well, should ideally be located in the Northeast corner of the property. This placement is believed to enhance positive energy and attract prosperity.
Bathrooms and Toilets
Bathrooms represent the disposal of waste and should be placed in zones that are less auspicious for other activities. The Northwest corner is generally considered suitable. It is important to avoid placing bathrooms in the Northeast or Southwest corners of the house.
Living Room and Furniture Placement
The living room is the center of social activity and should be facing the North-East, East, or North. Alternatively, a North-West orientation is also acceptable. When arranging furniture, heavy furniture should be kept in the South-West or West direction to provide stability and grounding to the space.
Parking and Open Areas
When planning the house, it is important to consider open spaces like parking and lawns. A parking area should be designed with sufficient space, with a dimension of 15 ft x 14 ft being ideal for a standard vehicle. It should be planned to accommodate future upgrades. A lawn is best utilized at the property’s entrance, ensuring the open areas allow for enough lighting and fresh air circulation throughout the house.
Vastu Compliance Checklist and Considerations
To ensure a house plan is Vastu-compliant, one must check the placement of key elements against established principles. The following table summarizes the ideal directions for different rooms and features in a house based on its main facing.
| Feature | North-Facing | East-Facing | South-Facing | West-Facing | Northeast-Facing | Southeast-Facing | Southwest-Facing | Northwest-Facing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entrance | North or Northeast | East or Northeast | South or Southeast | West or Northwest | North or Northeast | Southeast or East | South or Southwest | North or Northwest |
| Living Room | Northeast | East or Northeast | Southeast or South | Northwest or West | Northeast | Southeast | Southwest | Northwest |
| Bedrooms | Northwest or Northeast | Southeast or Northeast | Southwest or South | Southwest or Northwest | Northeast or North | Southeast or East | South or Southwest | Southwest or Northwest |
| Kitchen | Northeast or Northwest | Southeast or East | Southeast or South | Northwest or West | Northeast | Southeast | Southwest | Northwest |
| Bathrooms | Northwest or West | Southeast or East | Southeast or South | Northwest or West | North or Northeast | Southeast or East | South or Southwest | Southeast or East |
Addressing Common Queries on Vastu for House Plans
Several common questions arise when considering Vastu for a new home. The answers provide clarity on the practical application of these ancient principles.
How can I plan my house as per Vastu? The living room must be facing North-East, East, or North. Another option is to design the house so the living room faces the North-West direction. It is crucial to keep heavy furniture in the South-West or West direction.
Is Vastu accurate? Vastu is the science of architecture. While not an essential part of living, it can be inculcated to make one’s life healthier and better. The energy generated around an individual will define the energy created in their mind. A Vastu map can help achieve that positive environment.
What are the benefits of a north-facing house? According to the Vastu Disha map, a north-facing house is beneficial for those who run their own business or are involved in a financial field. Since Kubera, the God of wealth, is the ruler of this direction, a north-facing house is believed to attract wealth.
Which is the best floor plan according to Vastu Shastra? As per the principles of the Vastu map for home, a North facing floor plan is the best direction. A South facing house is considered the most unfavorable direction as per the Vastu Shastra map.
The Role of Consultation and Expertise
Designing a Vastu-perfect home plan is a complex task that requires a deep understanding of both Vastu Vidya (the science of Vastu) and engineering geometry. While it is not mandatory to be an architect or civil engineer to make a Vastu house plan, adequate skills in these areas are necessary. Consulting with a Vastu expert is as important as consulting with a contractor or architect. An experienced Vastu consultant can help create a balanced and harmonious plan, ensuring that the home is built on a foundation of positive energy, health, and prosperity. By following these guidelines, one can create a living space that is not only structurally sound but also spiritually and energetically aligned.
Conclusion
The principles of Vastu Shastra for house plans offer a timeless guide to creating living spaces that nurture well-being and success. From the initial selection of the plot to the final placement of the main door, kitchen, and bedrooms, every decision contributes to the overall energy of the home. By adhering to the directional guidelines for North, East, South, and West-facing houses, and ensuring the proper placement of water elements and open spaces, one can design a home that is in harmony with nature. This ancient science provides a holistic framework for modern living, proving that a thoughtfully designed home is the first step toward a balanced, prosperous, and healthy life.