A north-facing house is considered highly auspicious in Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture and energy flow. Governed by Kuber, the deity of wealth, the north direction is believed to attract prosperity, health, and financial success when aligned correctly. However, the mere orientation of the house is not a guarantee of auspiciousness; the precise placement of rooms, entrances, and structural elements is paramount to harnessing positive energy. This comprehensive guide explores the significance of north-facing properties, ideal design plans, specific directional guidelines for residential and commercial spaces, and effective remedial measures for existing Vastu defects.
The Significance of North-Facing Properties in Vastu Shastra
In Vastu Shastra, directions are not merely geographical points but powerful conduits of cosmic energy. The north direction is specifically linked to the element of water and the planet Mercury, but its most prominent association is with Lord Kuber, the custodian of wealth.
- Wealth and Prosperity: The primary benefit of a north-facing house is its potential to attract financial stability and growth. The north is known as the "Kubera Zone," and maintaining this area in a state of harmony is believed to activate financial inflows.
- Career Growth: For business owners and professionals, a well-aligned north-facing property can support career advancement and commercial success.
- Health and Harmony: The flow of positive energy in the north direction also contributes to the physical and mental well-being of the residents, fostering a peaceful and supportive environment.
It is important to note that while north-facing homes are generally favorable, the actual outcome depends heavily on the internal layout. As per Vastu principles, the facing of a house alone does not guarantee auspicious results; the placement of the main door and the arrangement of the remaining rooms are critical factors.
Ideal Vastu Plan for a North-Facing House
To maximize the benefits of a north-facing orientation, specific zones of the house must be assigned to specific functions. The house is typically divided into a grid of padas (steps) to determine the exact placement of elements.
The Main Entrance
The main door acts as the gateway for energy. In a north-facing house, the entrance should ideally be located in the 3rd, 4th, or 8th padas from the northwest corner. * Placement: A door in these specific padas welcomes health, wealth, and positive vibes. * Avoidance: The center of the north wall (5th pada) should generally be avoided for the main entrance to prevent energy stagnation.
The Kitchen (Fire Element)
The kitchen represents the fire element, which should be balanced with the water element of the north. * Ideal Location: The Southeast (Agneya) corner is the most auspicious location for the kitchen. If not possible, the Northwest (Vayavya) corner is a secondary option. * Placement: The cook should face East while preparing meals to absorb positive solar energy.
Bedrooms
Proper bedroom placement ensures rest and relationship harmony. * Master Bedroom: Should be located in the Southwest corner of the house. This direction is governed by the element of earth and provides stability and strength. * Other Bedrooms: West, South, or Northwest corners are suitable for other family members or guests. * Children’s Bedroom: Ideally located in the West or Northwest zones.
Living Room
The living room is a hub for social interaction and energy circulation. * Ideal Location: The Northeast (Ishanya) corner or along the northern side of the house. This placement allows for maximum natural light and creates a welcoming atmosphere for positive energy.
Pooja Room (Prayer Area)
The spiritual center of the home requires a high-vibration zone. * Ideal Location: The Northeast corner is the most auspicious direction for a pooja room, as it enhances spiritual clarity and focus.
Staircase
The staircase represents upward movement and heavy energy. * Ideal Location: The Southwest, South, or West directions are recommended for staircases. This placement anchors the heavy energy without disturbing the flow of prosperity in the north. * Avoidance: The center of the house or the Brahmasthan should be kept free of heavy structures like staircases.
Vastu for North-Facing Commercial Spaces and Plots
The principles of Vastu extend beyond residential homes to commercial establishments, plots, and villas.
Commercial Success
For businesses, a north-facing entrance can be highly beneficial, particularly for those in finance, trading, water-related industries, or communication sectors. * Owner’s Cabin: The business owner or head of the organization should sit in the Southwest corner of the office, facing North or East. * Cashier/CAccounts: The cash section should be located in the North or East zone to encourage financial growth.
Plots and Villas
When assessing a plot or a villa, the surrounding environment is also considered. * Slope: A plot should ideally slope towards the North or East. * Water Bodies: Underground water tanks or borewells are best placed in the Northeast corner. * Gardens: Greenery and gardens are best suited for the North, East, and Northeast zones.
North-Facing Apartments
North-facing apartments in high-rise buildings are also considered good, provided the main door of the apartment aligns with the north direction and the internal layout follows Vastu principles. Focus is placed on the alignment of the main door relative to the building's cardinal directions.
Holistic Energy Harmonization: Colors and Elements
To enhance the positive energy of a north-facing home, specific colors and materials are recommended.
- Recommended Colors: Light, neutral hues are ideal for the north zone. These include cream, pale green, off-white, and light blue. These colors enhance the flow of positive energy and reflect the calmness of the water element.
- Elemental Balance: Since the north represents water, the presence of water elements (such as a small fountain or an image of water) in the North or Northeast zone is beneficial. However, heavy furniture should be avoided in these zones to prevent blocking energy flow.
Vastu Remedies for North-Facing Homes
If a property has existing Vastu defects (Vastu Dosha), such as a wrongly placed restroom or a main door in an incorrect pada, total demolition is rarely necessary. Practical, non-demolition remedies can be applied to restore balance.
Remedies for Wrongly Placed Restrooms
Restrooms are considered sources of negative energy. If a restroom is located in the North, Northeast, or East zones (which should be kept open and positive), the following remedies can be used: * Mirrors: Place mirrors on the restroom walls (preferably on the North or East walls) to reflect and neutralize negative energy. * Copper Elements: Using copper elements, such as a copper strip on the door or a copper vessel with water, can help purify the energy. * Painting: Paint the restroom in light colors such as light yellow or white to mitigate negative vibrations. * Keep Closed: Keep the restroom door closed and ensure the toilet lid is down when not in use.
Activating the Kuber Zone (North)
To specifically activate the north direction for wealth and prosperity: * Cleanliness: The north zone must be kept absolutely clean, clear, and clutter-free. Clutter in this area blocks financial growth. * Storage: Avoid heavy storage or furniture in the North zone. This area should feel open and expansive. * Water Features: If possible, place a small water fountain or an image of a flowing river in the North zone to activate wealth energy.
General Remedial Measures
- Lighting: Ensure the North and Northeast zones are well-lit. Brightness attracts positive energy.
- Crystals: Placing clear quartz crystals in the affected zone can help cleanse the energy.
- Plants: Healthy green plants in the North or East zones can boost positive vibrations, provided they are not thorny.
Vastu Consultation Services
For those seeking a detailed analysis of their north-facing property, professional consultation is available. Services are often tailored for the specific needs of the United States market, adapting ancient principles to modern construction styles.
Online Vastu Consultation
Online consultations are convenient for homeowners and business owners. The process typically involves: 1. Sharing floor plans, directions, and photographs via email or video. 2. A Vastu map review to check room placements and structural alignment. 3. A report on basic Vastu compliance and recommended adjustments.
On-Site Vastu Visits
For a more in-depth analysis, an on-site visit allows for energy scanning and subtle observation of the land and building. This is particularly useful for: * Identifying subtle energy disturbances. * Assessing multi-level circulation in villas. * Planning gardens and parking areas.
Energy Scanning
Energy scanning involves using specific tools and intuitive assessment to identify areas of energy imbalance. This helps in applying precise remedies without guesswork.
Conclusion
A north-facing house holds immense potential for attracting wealth, health, and prosperity, but this potential can only be realized through strict adherence to Vastu Shastra guidelines. The placement of the main door, kitchen, bedrooms, and other structural elements must be carefully planned. Even if defects exist, effective remedies such as the use of mirrors, copper elements, and specific colors can restore harmony. By aligning the living or working space with the natural flow of energy, individuals can create a supportive environment that fosters growth, peace, and success.