Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian architectural science, provides comprehensive guidelines for creating harmonious living spaces that foster positive energy, well-being, and prosperity. The drawing room, often considered the energy headquarters of a home, plays a pivotal role in shaping the atmosphere for family interactions and social engagements. When selecting scenery and decorative elements for this space, Vastu principles emphasize directional alignment, color harmony, and the integration of natural elements to enhance the flow of positive vibrations. This article explores Vastu-approved approaches to incorporating scenery, artwork, and decor in the drawing room, drawing exclusively from established guidelines to help homeowners create balanced and inviting environments.
The drawing room serves as a central hub where family members gather and guests are entertained, making its design essential for maintaining harmony. According to Vastu Shastra, the placement of decorative items such as paintings, photographs, and water features can significantly influence the energy dynamics of the space. By following directional attributes and material considerations, individuals can align their drawing rooms with cosmic principles that promote health, wealth, and positive social interactions. The guidelines focus on practical applications that blend tradition with modern living, ensuring that the room not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also supports holistic well-being.
Directional Principles for Scenery and Decor Placement
The orientation of the drawing room and the placement of decorative elements are fundamental to Vastu compliance. The best direction for constructing a drawing room varies based on the house's facing, ensuring optimal energy channeling. For a north-facing house, the drawing room can be located in the northeast; for an east-facing house, the northeast is also suitable. A west-facing house benefits from a northwest drawing room, while a south-facing house should position it in the southeast. Additionally, drawing rooms can be situated in central zones such as the central west, central east, central south, or central north of the house.
When selecting scenery for the drawing room, the direction of the artwork is crucial for attracting positive energy. Pictures depicting water bodies, water fountains, and aquariums are highly recommended and should be placed in the north to east area. This positioning aligns with the flow of prosperity and vitality. Decorative items such as flower vases, fish aquariums, and waterfall fountains are best situated in the north, northeast, or east directions. These placements bring peace and harmony to the household, as the gentle sounds and sights of water elements are known to induce relaxation and reduce stress.
For general artwork and paintings, the north and east directions remain optimal. The north is associated with health and wealth, making it an ideal spot for photographs of surviving older generations, which can honor family lineage and invite ancestral blessings. The east, linked to the rising sun and new beginnings, supports artwork that inspires positivity and growth. Avoid placing heavy or aggressive scenery in the south or southwest, as these zones are governed by elements that may amplify negativity if not balanced properly. Instead, focus on light, uplifting imagery in the favorable directions to maintain equilibrium.
Recommended Scenery Types and Their Benefits
Vastu Shastra categorizes scenery and decor based on their vibrational impact. Water-based scenery, such as paintings of rivers, oceans, or lakes, is particularly auspicious when oriented northward. These elements symbolize flow and abundance, enhancing financial stability and emotional calm. Aquariums with swimming fish are also favored; their movement creates dynamic energy that invigorates the space without overwhelming it. Water fountains, whether indoor or depicted in art, should feature gentle flows to avoid chaotic energy, and they are best placed in the northeast for maximum benefit.
Natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and gardens, are excellent choices for drawing room walls. Scenes of blooming flowers or lush greenery align with the east and north, promoting growth and renewal. Abstract art with soft, flowing lines and harmonious colors can also be used, provided it avoids sharp edges or disturbing motifs. Religious or spiritual imagery, if desired, should be placed in the northeast or east to foster a sacred atmosphere, but it must be chosen thoughtfully to avoid any connotations of conflict.
Incorporating small plants as part of the decor is another Vastu tip. Placing potted plants on side tables or in corners adds a touch of nature, improving air quality and energy flow. Opt for plants with round leaves, such as money plants, and position them in the east or north. Avoid thorny plants, which can introduce prickly energy into the social space.
Color Psychology in Scenery and Wall Decor
Colors play a significant role in Vastu for drawing rooms, influencing mood and energy levels. The walls should be painted in light shades such as white, green, yellow, or blue, as these colors brighten the space and spread warmth. Light tones are especially suitable for small drawing rooms, creating an illusion of spaciousness and positivity. For larger rooms, darker shades like blue, indigo, or violet can be used, particularly in summer, to cool the atmosphere.
When selecting scenery or artwork, the color palette should complement these wall colors. For instance, blue-toned paintings enhance calmness and are ideal for the north zone. Green hues in artwork align with the northeast and promote harmony and health. Yellow accents in scenery can be placed in the north to invoke Jupiter's energy for wisdom and prosperity. Avoid overly bright or red-dominated art in the drawing room, as red is a hot color best reserved for winter seasons or specific directional adjustments; it may disrupt the balanced energy if used excessively.
Curtains and rugs also contribute to the overall color scheme. Curtains in light, directional colors can frame scenery effectively. For carpets, Vastu provides planetary color associations: yellow for Jupiter in the north, green for Mercury in the northeast, and pastel blues for Mars in the south. These choices ensure that the floor decor supports the directional energy of the artwork above.
Furniture and Layout Considerations for Scenery Integration
The placement of furniture relative to scenery is essential for unobstructed energy flow. Furniture should be arranged in the southern and western corners of the drawing room, leaving the central and northern areas open for movement and decorative displays. This layout allows for clear sightlines to artwork placed on north or east walls, enhancing the room's vibrancy.
Showcases and almirahs, which can house smaller decorative items or framed scenery, are best positioned in the southwest corner. This placement stabilizes the energy and prevents clutter. Electrical appliances, such as televisions or sound systems, should be in the southeast, away from the primary viewing areas of scenery to avoid electromagnetic interference with positive vibrations.
For seating arrangements, ensure that guests face the north or east when seated, aligning with favorable directions for conversation and energy exchange. This orientation allows the scenery on adjacent walls to be appreciated without creating a sense of heaviness or blockage.
Everyday Maintenance and Holistic Energy Balancing
To sustain the positive influence of scenery and decor, regular maintenance is key. Decluttering the drawing room enhances energy flow, so artwork should be cleaned and arranged neatly. Incorporate natural elements like stones or crystals near scenery to amplify vibrational harmony, though specific types should be chosen based on verified Vastu texts.
Lighting is another critical factor. The drawing room should be well-lit with natural light during the day, which highlights the scenery and invigorates the space. In the evenings, ambient artificial lighting should be soft and warm, avoiding harsh glare on artwork. This balance supports both visual appeal and energetic clarity.
For those seeking deeper spiritual insights, integrating Vastu with other holistic practices can be beneficial. However, such combinations should be guided by professional consultation to ensure alignment with personal needs and traditional principles.
Common Constraints and Remedial Measures
Not all drawing rooms can adhere perfectly to Vastu ideals due to architectural limitations. If the room is in a less favorable direction, remedies such as placing mirrors on the north or east walls can redirect energy, though mirrors should never face the main door. For artwork in suboptimal zones, using light-colored frames or adding plants nearby can mitigate negative effects. Always prioritize verified guidelines over anecdotal suggestions to avoid unintended imbalances.
By thoughtfully selecting and placing scenery according to these Vastu principles, homeowners can transform their drawing rooms into sanctuaries of positivity. This approach not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also supports overall harmony, making the space conducive to relaxation, social bonding, and personal growth.
Conclusion
Incorporating Vastu-compliant scenery and decor in the drawing room is a practical way to harness positive energy for health, wealth, and harmonious living. Key takeaways include positioning water-based artwork in the north to east area, using light colors like white, green, yellow, and blue, and arranging furniture to support directional flow. Regular decluttering and proper lighting further amplify these benefits. While these guidelines offer a foundation, consulting a Vastu expert ensures personalized adjustments for optimal results, fostering a balanced and joyful home environment.