Introduction:

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese philosophy that aims to create harmony and balance in living spaces. By incorporating Feng Shui principles into your living room design, you can enhance the flow of positive energy and create a serene and inviting atmosphere. Here are some essential tips to consider when arranging and decorating your living room. 

1. Clear the Clutter:

One of the fundamental principles of Feng Shui is maintaining a clutter-free environment. Clutter disrupts the flow of energy and creates stagnant areas in the living room. Ensure your living room is well-organized, with a designated place for every item. Consider implementing storage solutions such as hidden compartments, shelving, or stylish baskets to keep things tidy and create a sense of spaciousness.

Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? Simply because a messy home affects our mood and well-being. If you can’t find your wallet, and you are running late for an appointment, it’s going to affect your day. 

2. Balanced Furniture Placement:

 The placement of furniture is crucial in achieving balance and harmony in the living room. Arrange your furniture in a way that encourages a smooth and comfortable flow of energy. Avoid placing furniture in a haphazard manner that obstructs doorways or creates cramped spaces. Ideally, position the sofa against a solid wall and ensure there is ample space for movement around the room. Additionally, avoid sharp corners or edges that may create negative chi, balance these with rounded or curved furniture pieces.

Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? This is quite logical. In space planning, a well-designed home has belongings stowed away neatly, this makes finding and keeping stuffs a breeze, it also reduces any obstructions and hazards. Just imagine if there happens to be a fire, every second counts, the last thing you want to do is slip on your child’s fire truck or step on lego bricks.

3. Symmetry for Balance:

Sugar Bowl Residence by John Maniscalco Architecture (Image Source: Houzz ) 

Symmetry is an essential part of creating balance in Feng Shui design. Incorporate symmetrical elements within your living room to promote a sense of equilibrium. For example, place matching side tables and lamps on either side of the sofa or arrange pairs of chairs or décor items across from each other. This symmetrical layout helps create a calming and harmonious energy flow in the space.

Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? Nature uses symmetry to make things beautiful. When someone’s face is symmetrical and well proportioned, he or she looks pleasant and inviting. The same can be said about a space and whether it is designed in a balanced, proportionate and symmetrical manner. The mind somehow associates a well-balanced space as inviting and hospitable. 

4. Allow Natural Light and Fresh Air:

Natural light and fresh air are essential elements for promoting positive energy in your living room. Open the curtains or blinds during the day to let in sunlight, which is believed to bring in good energy. Ensure that windows are clean and unobstructed to allow for the smooth flow of natural light and fresh air. Consider adding indoor plants to enhance the connection with nature and improve air quality.

Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? In modern day living, we spend more time indoors then outdoors, this affects our health as well as studies have proven that the air indoors is more toxic than the air outside (except when there’s haze going on). We also use more artificial lighting to illuminate our spaces when we can make use of natural lighting to optimise our body’s circadian rhythm.

5. Colours and Elements:

 Colours play a significant role in Feng Shui. Choose a colour scheme that promotes a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Neutral tones like beige, cream, or pastels are generally recommended, but feel free to incorporate colours that resonate with you. Additionally, consider the five Feng Shui elements—wood, fire, earth, metal, and water—and find ways to incorporate them harmoniously into your living room through furniture, decor, or artwork.

Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? Imagine you have a hot tempered rebellious 15-year-old teenager staying at home. He/she gets irritated at the slightest. Would you paint his/her bedroom in bright orange/red? I rest my case.

6. Engage All Senses:

 Creating a harmonious living room involves engaging all senses. Consider incorporating elements that appeal to sight, sound, touch, smell, and even taste. Use soothing scents like lavender or citrus, play soft music or nature sounds, incorporate textured fabrics and materials, and display visually pleasing artwork or objects that bring joy. Creating a sensorial experience promotes relaxation and positive energy flow.

Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? In design, we call this “experiential design”, where the space engages the visitors beyond visual interest. Many high-end hotel lobbies, deploy design tactics like this to captivate the visitors, from the use of luxurious fabrics and stones to the unique smell of lobbies. Good design can entice sub consciously as well.

7. Art and Decor Placement:

 Art and decor play an essential role in Feng Shui. Choose artwork and decor items that uplift your spirit and resonate with positive energy. Display meaningful and inspiring pieces that evoke joy and a sense of tranquillity. Place them strategically in your living room, focusing on areas that need visual upliftment or balance. Avoid placing artwork depicting negative or intense emotions.

Pro Tip: Why is this science + Feng Shui? A good piece of art or decor usually tells a story. Psychologically speaking, it can also help open conversations amongst guests. It almost goes without saying that art can make your home more beautiful and inviting. A well-chosen piece of art can add a touch of gravitas, sophistication and style to any room. Just make sure that adequate lighting is positioned to bring out the beauty of the art or decor.

8. Still think it’s superstition?

Whether you think Feng Shui is real or some hogwash, there are some fundamental science and common sense that is tied to this ancient and cultural artform. You don’t have to associate it with religion in anyway. By incorporating Feng Shui principles into your living room design, you can create a harmonious and inviting space that promotes positivity. Clearing clutter, balancing furniture placement, incorporating symmetry, allowing natural light and fresh air, selecting appropriate colours and elements, engaging all senses, and strategically placing artwork and decor are all key scientific considerations. Embrace the philosophy of Feng Shui into your home design and transform your living space into a healthy, balanced and enjoyable home.

Posted on 14th November 2023

Written by Astley Ng – the designerd.

SIXIDES Editorial Team