Understanding The Principles Of Vastu Shastra In Interior Design

By Author: Vogue Institute of Art and Design
Total Articles: 2
Comment this article

In today’s world of modern interiors and sleek aesthetics, the ancient Indian science of Vastu Shastra is making a strong comeback. Rooted in tradition and spiritual energy, Vastu Shastra is increasingly being embraced by architects and designers alike. For students pursuing interior design courses in India, understanding the principles of Vastu is no longer optional — it’s an essential skill to create holistic, harmonious spaces that balance both function and energy.

What is Vastu Shastra?
Vastu Shastra is a traditional Indian architectural system that blends science, art, astronomy, and astrology. The term “Vastu” means dwelling, and “Shastra” means science. Together, Vastu Shastra can be understood as the “science of architecture,” focusing on the layout, measurements, design, ground preparation, space arrangement, and spatial geometry to create balanced environments.

While Vastu was originally applied to temples and royal residences, today its principles are widely used in residential, commercial, and institutional design. Many interior design courses in India now incorporate Vastu ...
... Shastra fundamentals, recognizing its impact on wellness, positivity, and prosperity.

Core Principles of Vastu Shastra
1. The Five Elements (Pancha Bhootas)
Vastu Shastra is based on the belief that the universe is made up of five elements — Earth (Prithvi), Water (Jal), Fire (Agni), Air (Vayu), and Space (Akasha). These elements are interrelated and influence human lives. In interior design:

Earth (Prithvi): Represents stability. Heavy furniture and foundational elements are best placed in the southwest zone.
Water (Jal): Denotes flow and emotion. Ideal for bathrooms, water features, or aquariums in the northeast.
Fire (Agni): Symbolizes energy. Kitchens, stoves, and lighting are best placed in the southeast.
Air (Vayu): Associated with movement. Ventilation, windows, and plants thrive in the northwest.
Space (Akasha): Related to openness. Central spaces should remain uncluttered to allow energy flow.
Students of interior design courses in India are taught how to harmonize these elements in design for balanced energy.

2. The Directions and Energy Flow
In Vastu, directions are crucial. Each cardinal direction — North, South, East, and West — has a corresponding energy that affects the inhabitants of the space.

North (Kubera — Lord of Wealth): Favorable for financial growth; use lighter colors and open spaces.
East (Indra — Lord of Solar Energy): Symbolizes health and vitality; keep windows open to let sunlight in.
South (Yama — Lord of Death): Can be stabilizing when used correctly; use for storage or heavy elements.
West (Varuna — Lord of Water): Ideal for stability in business; suitable for children’s rooms or study spaces.
Applying these directional principles during space planning is a fundamental component in most interior design courses in India that explore sustainable and energy-conscious design.

Vastu Tips for Different Areas of the House
Living Room
Place the living room in the north or east direction.
Furniture should be placed in the southwest or west direction.
Avoid clutter and use soothing colors like cream, light blue, or soft green.
Bedroom
The master bedroom is ideally located in the southwest.
The bed should be placed in a way that the head faces south while sleeping.
Avoid placing mirrors directly opposite the bed to prevent negative energy reflection.
Kitchen
Southeast is the best zone for the kitchen as it represents the fire element.
Keep the stove in the southeast corner.
Avoid placing water and fire sources adjacent to each other.
Study Room
The northeast or east direction is ideal for concentration and mental growth.
Place study tables so students face east or north while studying.
Light shades of yellow or green promote learning.
Bathroom
Bathrooms should ideally be placed in the west or northwest zone.
Use light colors and ensure proper ventilation.
Always keep bathroom doors closed to avoid negative energy dispersion.
Understanding these room-specific Vastu tips equips students in interior design courses in India with a culturally relevant skill set that appeals to a wide client base.

Role of Colors in Vastu Interior Design
Colors have a direct impact on mood and energy. Vastu prescribes specific color schemes for different spaces:

North: Green and blue shades for growth and tranquility.
East: White, cream, or light blue to invite positivity.
South: Red or orange tones to harness fiery energy.
West: Grey, silver, or white for balance and creativity.
By learning about color psychology alongside Vastu principles, students in interior design courses in India gain an edge in creating mood-specific environments.

Furniture and Layout According to Vastu
Even furniture placement is influenced by Vastu Shastra:

Heavy furniture should be placed in the southwest or south direction.
Avoid placing mirrors in the north or east directly opposite doors.
Seating should allow occupants to face east or north.
Avoid irregularly shaped furniture to maintain spatial balance.
Incorporating this ancient wisdom into modern layouts is an essential part of project-based learning in advanced interior design courses in India.

Vastu and Lighting Design
Light symbolizes positivity, and good lighting is crucial to Vastu-compliant design.

Natural light is best; hence, large windows facing east are encouraged.
Artificial lighting should be warm and not harsh.
Candles, diyas, and diffused lighting can enhance the spiritual vibe of a space.
Lighting design, when guided by Vastu principles, is both aesthetic and energetic — an important module in most interior design courses in India.

Vastu Compliance in Modern Interior Design
Modern homes and apartments may not always allow for full Vastu compliance due to architectural constraints. However, minor adjustments can still harness its benefits:

Use Vastu pyramids, salt bowls, and crystals to correct energy imbalances.
Incorporate indoor plants in the north or northeast to purify energy.
Rearranging furniture based on Vastu directions can enhance harmony.
Students trained through reputed interior design courses in India are taught to apply these remedies creatively, even in high-rise urban settings.

Why Interior Designers Should Learn Vastu Shastra
Incorporating Vastu in interior design projects gives designers a competitive advantage. Many Indian clients prioritize Vastu compliance as part of their cultural and spiritual beliefs. Designers with Vastu knowledge:

Provide holistic design solutions
Improve client satisfaction
Offer energy-efficient and psychologically comforting spaces
Attract clientele looking for well-being-oriented designs
This is why many interior design courses in India are now integrating Vastu Shastra into their core or elective modules, offering students theoretical knowledge and practical workshops.

How Interior Design Courses in India Teach Vastu Shastra
Several prestigious design institutes offer specialized training in Vastu:

Theory Classes: Cover the history, philosophy, and science behind Vastu.
Studio Practice: Students apply Vastu in space planning, furniture layout, and design detailing.
Case Studies: Analyze real-life projects that blend Vastu with contemporary design.
Workshops and Expert Sessions: Conducted by Vastu consultants and architects.
Whether you study in Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, or Chennai, leading interior design courses in India ensure that graduates understand the cultural pulse and technical nuances of Vastu-integrated design.

Conclusion
Understanding the principles of Vastu Shastra in interior design is more than a traditional practice — it’s a method to align living spaces with the energies of the universe. As the demand for well-being-centric spaces rises, designers with knowledge of Vastu Shastra are well-positioned to deliver both aesthetic and energetic harmony.

For aspiring designers, enrolling in top-tier interior design courses in India that include Vastu training can be a transformational step. It not only elevates your skillset but also enhances your cultural competence and client appeal.