How does
Feng Shui work?
Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese design theory that helps to inform interior (and exterior) design decisions so that they holistically benefit everyone who lives in the space. The theory is based in the subconscious effects your environment has on your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health and well-being regardless of whether or not you are aware of them.
These theories can be seamlessly integrated into any space and nearly any design style. Despite being intentional, they do not feel forced or superimposed. The integrations simply fit in as character, interest, and decor to improve the overall mood, harmony, and impact of the space. It elevates you subconsciously to a better place that will help you live your best life and show up in the world as your best self.
A bronze Buddha statue at the Abbie Aldrich Rockefeller Garden in Northeast Harbor, Maine. Chinese culture and philosophy were a large influence for many Rusticators that visited Maine in the 19th and 20th century, and even to this day. This garden is a spectacular example of this influence and interest.
How do you integrate
Feng Shui?
I can integrate my knowledge of Feng Shui in one of two ways:
1) General Considerations - I can just focus more on what not to do to make sure your space has optimal flow and balance and doesn’t break any major rules, but without putting too much emphasis on the theory’s nuances if it will compromise your vision or you just prefer something else.
2) Overall Considerations - I can let Feng Shui heavily inform the overall design and mood of the space rather than purely being an accent or factor. This is ideal if you are really looking to make a major difference in your life, rather than just having a beautiful space that represents you and your lifestyle.
One example of a consideration I might make is the direction or area of the space and its associated elements, themes, and/or colors according to Feng Shui theory, like placing gold in the wealth area to help you attract an ever-increasing and abundant flow of prosperity or a painting of two pink flowers in your love area to promote a happy, healthy love life.
Feng Shui Areas
-
Wealth & Prosperity
Direction: Southeast (Rear Left)
Element: Wood
Color: Purple, Blue, Red, Gold
-
Fame & Reputation
Direction: South (Rear Middle)
Element: Fire
Color: Red, Orange, Gold, Yellow
-
Love & Relationships
Direction: Southwest (Rear Right)
Element: Earth
Color: Pink, Red, White, Peach, Tan
-
Family & Beginnings
Direction: East (Middle Left)
Element: Wood
Color: Green, Brown
-
Health & Well-Being
Direction: Center
Element: Earth
Color: Yellow, Orange, Brown, Green (esp. for healing)
-
Children & Creativity
Direction: West (Middle Right)
Element: Metal
Color: White, Silver, Gray, Gold, Copper, Black, Peach
-
Wisdom & Introspection
Direction: Northeast (Front Left)
Element: Earth
Color: Blue, Green, Black
-
Career & Life Journey
Direction: North (Center Front)
Element: Water
Color: Black, Gold, Blue
-
Travel & Helpful People
Direction: Northwest (Front Right)
Element: Metal
Color: Black, White, Gray, Silver