The task of integrating feng shui principles and aesthetics may become arduous if you do not balance both with a sense of creativity and passion. Under the guidelines of feng shui charts and directions, we understand that certain areas within the home adopt favourable characteristics based on its “flying stars”, while the unfavourable sectors need “curing”. So when we identify an area that is deemed lucky, we should try to design the architecture around such stars to fully maximize the potential of that space. For example, you don’t locate your store or under-utilized rooms in areas where the flying stars are deemed auspicious; neither do you place main living areas in locations where unlucky star combinations exist.
While most charts only show a few favourable sectors for each house, it makes sense to really maximize the spaces you have which benefit from these lucky star combinations. One of the secrets is to understand the concept of the open space plan. To develop an open space plan, it isn’t just about using a single space for everything under the roof, but more to create a flow of energy within a single space that allows for individualized areas within that space.
They say a picture can paint a thousand words. In this example this issue, the key aspect of the space is its location. With the house in question facing East, it allows the auspicious flying star combinations of the double 8 and 1,6,8 stars to be located in the East and center of the house respectively. As a result, an open space plan was adopted to maximize the stars’ full potential. With the dining room located in the East to enjoy the energy of the double 8, it was crucial to create a vibrant feel to the space. Large portal doorways were used to create openings to allow the energy to flow throughout the house and on to adjacent sectors so each part of the home can enjoy the auspicious energies of the center grids. The use of high ceilings allows the sensation of space with the help of the large portals to maintain the right balance of proportion and scale.
Overlooking the dining table looms a unique chandelier that describes a modern yet simple touch that pulls everything together. The secret is not to clutter up the space by trying to overdo things, but to bring simple touches that allow the visual eye to be captivated. This single chandelier element plays a vital role as it not only centers the alignment of the room but creates that very important human scale to the dining room in this open plan concept. By doing so, it allows the space to shine yet allowing the family to enjoy the intimate act of dining.
OPEN PLAN LIVING
Adjacent to the dining is the main living area which enjoys the 1,6,8 star combination, otherwise known as the collection of all the white stars. Similar design techniques were adopted to enhance the feng shui of the space. The use of portals provides a visual connection that allows the energies within the center to resonate to the other parts of the home, thereby maximizing the full potential of the 1,6,8 star combinations.
Similar design techniques were integrated into the interior décor. The use of enlarged paintings brings a sense of proportion to the space while the single fan identifies the main living area as the heart within the open plan concept.
INTEGRATING THE 5 ELEMENTS INTO THE HOME DECO
Another key feature is how to use the 5 elements within the space. Introducing the 5 elements (Fire, Earth, Metal, Water and Wood) into a space doesn’t mean it can work; but introducing them in subtle elements enhances the space beyond wonder. In this case, the use of the Fire element is introduced through selected table lamps whose stands are designed in modernistic illustration of the triangular fire symbol. The element of Earth is placed at selected areas to give a touch of texture, for example in the back area and overlooking the swimming pool feature wall.
The Metal element can become overwhelming if overused due to its hard nature, so in this case, tiny hints of metal are introduced through interior finishes, such as equipment in the kitchen, the use of gold effect fabrics for the sofas and an overall play of white and grays in colours to suggest the element metal.
With the living room overlooking the swimming pool, a large body of water helps to complete this vital element for wealth generation. By designing a single sheet of water to act as a waterfall, it symbolizes an interrupted flow of wealth flowing towards the home. This represents the Water element.
And to pull everything together, the warm element of Wood is used as the main base flooring material. Wood plays such a vital role in the space as it is one of the only elements that can give a warm feel to a house, and soft enough that it doesn’t dominate the space and its unique elements within.
DETAILS BRING LIFE INTO THE HOME
It is the details that bring out the life in any home. Through these simple touches, you can create a story that interprets your taste and lifestyle. The painting overlooking the dining room exhibits two birds that symbolize love and romance, while balance with the two bowls tell the story of yin and yang. The empty bowl reminds us of emptiness and the past, while the plant annex to it reminds use of growth and the future.
At the heart of the home, the depiction of 9 carved Chinese pieces enhances the power of the 9 which is symbolic of the annual 9 star at the center grid this year. This plays a vital backdrop to a wooden sculpture that gives a subtle hint of the 3 mountains that symbolizes power. The large Wu Lou stands as a feature piece adding a touch of class and sophistication yet reminding us of the symbol of health and vitality. The final art piece is that of a horse, which sits in the South as a symbol of fame and opportunity.
The balance and design of spaces is a delicate aspect to the overall feel of the home. It encompasses the passion and sensitivity you bring to the table and displays your true aesthetic nature within you. So while feng shui plays an important role in determining the location of space, it is the design and details within such spaces that compliments it and brings life into the home.
