Designing a garage that aligns with Vastu Shastra principles can significantly enhance the overall energy flow and functionality of a property. Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian architectural science, emphasizes the importance of harmonizing spaces with natural elements to promote well-being, prosperity, and longevity for the inhabitants. While often considered a utilitarian space, the garage serves as a critical starting point for all road journeys and commutes. A garage constructed in accordance with Vastu principles is believed to ensure long life and luckiness for its proprietors, while also maintaining the lifespan of vehicles. This article explores comprehensive guidelines for creating a Vastu-compliant garage, covering optimal location, design elements, parking directions, and common queries.
Optimal Location and Placement
The placement of a garage is a fundamental aspect of Vastu compliance. The energy of the plot and the main building must be considered to ensure that the garage does not disrupt the flow of positive energy.
According to Vastu principles, the ideal location for a garage is in the Northwest (NW) or Southeast (SE) corner of the property. The Northwest zone is associated with the air element and is considered highly favorable for housing vehicles. This direction supports movement and travel, making it suitable for a space dedicated to transportation. The Southeast corner is linked to the fire element and is also a viable option for a garage.
It is strictly advised to avoid placing the garage in the Northeast (NE) corner, as this area is sacred and reserved for positive energy flow; placing a garage here can disrupt this harmony. Additionally, other directions such as North, East, South, Southwest, and West are generally to be avoided for garage placement according to specific guidelines.
For properties where a standalone garage is not feasible, a basement garage is an alternative. However, even in a basement setting, parking vehicles in the Northeast area should be approached with caution, although it is deemed permissible if the garage itself is located in the basement.
The relationship between the garage and the compound wall is also significant. The parking area should not be touching the compound wall. If they are in contact, it may necessitate raising the wall for parking purposes, which could cut off the light source and restrict energy flow. Similarly, the garage must never touch the compound wall of the plot or the walls of the main building to maintain distinct energy fields.
Design Elements and Structural Considerations
Functional design combined with Vastu compliance ensures that the garage is both practical and energetically balanced.
Ventilation and Lighting: Proper ventilation and natural lighting are crucial elements. Installing windows or skylights allows sufficient sunlight and airflow, which prevents stagnation of energy and maintains a fresh environment.
Roof and Height: The garage roof should not touch the main building. Maintaining a separation ensures that the energy of the main residence remains undisturbed. Furthermore, regarding the height of structures, the South, Southwest, and West sides of the building (including the garage structure) should be higher than the North and East sides.
Portico and Pillars: If a portico is constructed, it should be 1 or 2 feet below the roof level and must not touch the compound wall. A specific structural guideline is to avoid constructing a pillar in the North-East to support the roof of the portico; instead, a cantilever roof (which is slightly lower than the building roof) should be used.
Floor Layout and Slope: The floor of the garage should have a clear and open plan, free from unnecessary obstructions to allow smooth movement. A specific requirement is that the floor level of the parking should be sloping towards the North or East region. This slope facilitates the drainage of water and negative energies, aligning with the flow of positive currents.
Garage Door Directions and Entry
The entry point into the garage acts as a gateway for energy. The direction and operation of the garage door are vital for ensuring smooth transitions.
Direction: The garage door should ideally open towards the North or East. This orientation allows for maximum sunlight and positive energy entry. Conversely, doors that open to the South or West are considered less favorable according to Vastu.
Size and Operation: The gate of the garage should be wide enough to encourage the smooth entry and exit of the vehicle. Interestingly, the garage door should be a tad smaller in size compared to the main entrance of the home. This distinction helps in adjusting the balance of good and bad energies, ensuring that the main entrance remains the primary channel for significant energy intake.
Smooth Functionality: The track of the garage door should be free, ensuring easy convenience for the vehicle's movement. The gate should open freely without making any noise and should not face any hindrance.
Parking Directions and Vehicle Placement
Once inside the garage, the direction in which the vehicle is parked or faces is highly significant. This positioning influences the frequency of travel, the maintenance requirements of the vehicle, and the safety of the occupants.
Recommended Parking Zones: - North-West or South-East: The vehicle should be stopped in the North-West heading or the South-East direction of the plot. Parking in the North-West direction is known to make one travel a lot and brings victory in life. - East or North: The vehicle should always face East or North while parked. This orientation is believed to be auspicious for the vehicle and its owner.
Zones to Avoid for Parking: - North-East (NE): Parking in the North-East direction is strictly prohibited as it prevents divine forces from entering the premises. (Exception: Permissible in a basement garage). - West in NW Garage: If the garage is positioned in the Northwest, do not park vehicles on the West side within that garage, as this is believed to result in excessive traveling. - South-West (SW): Parking in the Southwest corner indicates occasional usage of the vehicle and may lead to regular repairing and maintenance needs. - South or West: Parking in the South or West direction increases the chances that the vehicle might face heat hazards, which can degrade the vehicle's condition.
Color Schemes and Aesthetics
The colors used in the garage contribute to the atmosphere and energy vibration. Light and bright colors are recommended to promote positivity and a sense of spaciousness.
Favorable Colors: White, yellow, and other bright colors are considered favorable for the parking area. Light shades such as cream and beige also promote positivity.
Colors to Avoid: Dark and heavy colors like black and grey should be avoided as they may create an oppressive atmosphere and attract negative energy. The garage should be painted in white or any light color to maintain a clean and vibrant energy field.
Storage Solutions and Organization
An organized space is essential for the free flow of energy. Clutter can block positive currents and lead to stagnation.
Modular Storage: Implementing modular storage solutions helps keep the garage organized and clutter-free. Shelving units, wall-mounted racks, and cabinets allow for effective utilization of vertical space.
Cleanliness: A tidy and organized garage promotes positive energy. It is important not to store rubbish material or unnecessary waste in the garage, as this disrupts the harmony of the space.
Landscaping and External Environment
The area surrounding the garage also plays a role in Vastu compliance.
Maintenance: The landscaping around the garage should be well-maintained. Plants should be positioned to enhance the aesthetics and energy around the garage.
Ground Level: The ground level around the garage should ideally be lower in the North and East compared to the South and West, consistent with general Vastu plot guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garage Vastu
Addressing common queries helps clarify specific concerns regarding garage placement and usage.
Q: Where should the garage be located as per Vastu? Ans: The best direction for a garage is the Northwest zone. If that is not possible, it can be placed in the Southeast zone.
Q: What should be avoided as per Vastu for garage placement? Ans: One should avoid placing the garage in the North, Northeast, East, South, Southwest, and West directions.
Q: Is the garage considered part of the house in Vastu? Ans: Yes, the garage is considered part of the house.
Q: Which side of the building should be higher as per Vastu? Ans: The South, Southwest, and West sides should be higher than the North and East sides.
Q: What is a side entry garage? Ans: A side entry garage is when one enters the house directly through the garage. This is considered very wrong. One should always use the main door to enter the house.
Q: Can I park my vehicle in the West direction? Ans: Parking in the West direction increases the chances of heat hazards. Additionally, if the garage is in the Northwest, parking on the West side should be avoided to prevent excessive traveling.
Q: What is the impact of parking in the Southwest? Ans: Parking in the Southwest corner indicates occasional usage of the vehicle and may require regular repairs.
Conclusion
Adhering to Vastu Shastra principles for garage design and placement is a holistic approach to managing a property's energy. By focusing on the optimal location in the Northwest or Southeast, ensuring proper ventilation and lighting, utilizing favorable color schemes, and adhering to specific parking and door directions, homeowners can create a space that supports the longevity of their vehicles and the prosperity of the household. Avoiding prohibited zones such as the Northeast and maintaining structural separation from the main building and compound walls are critical steps in this process. Through these detailed guidelines, the garage transforms from a mere storage space into a component of the home that actively contributes to positive energy flow and functional harmony.