Interior Design Feng Shui

When it comes to interior design, feng shui is still quite a popular approach. Feng shui is the ancient Chinese art of design. It literally translates to "wind and water." Feng shui is all about chi, or your life energy, and having it flow continually throughout each room. If a room is disorganized, the chi cannot flow properly and therefore, you will have disorganization in your life as well. When we are rid of obstacles in our home, we promote a peaceful and calm life. Even if you don't believe in the essence of chi, it's still good interior design practice. Clutter never looks good.

The bedroom is one of the most important rooms in the house. It is where you rest and regain strength. This is your sanctuary, so it needs to be serene. A strong headboard will ensure that your chi is protected while you sleep. Never place a mirror across from the bed. Work and rest need to be separated, therefore, do not have any desks or computers in the bedroom. A nightstand on each side of the bed will promote stability. In terms of colors, choose soft and warm ones, especially pastels. Art and paintings that depict happiness will promote the same in your life.

Even more important than the bedroom is the kitchen. You don't need to worry about entire kitchen remodeling in order to have good feng shui. Your kitchen need not be crammed with too many appliances. Of course you need the refrigerator, stove, and microwave, but try to keep smaller gadgets out of sight. The stove should be placed where the chef can have full view of the kitchen. If this is not possible, don't start kitchen remodeling. You can fix this by putting a mirror above the stove so you can see the entire room. The kitchen needs excellent lighting and should be as spacious as possible. Sinks and refrigerators should be diagonal from the stove -fire and water do not mix. Microwaves should not be placed above a stove because it is considered a bad omen.

Next comes the interior design of your living room, a place for family and friends to gather and entertain. Any seating should be facing the door and never in front of windows, blocking chi. If the living room is also the family room, place any electronics in closed hutches to separate room functions. A fireplace should always be the focal point of the room. Dark corners need to be lit with floor and table lamps. When choosing colors and furniture, there should be a balance of the yin and yang. Have both soft and dark colors, high and low furniture, and horizontal and vertical items. When hanging mirrors, do not place them opposite the door and they should not reflect a bathroom, kitchen, or staircase.

When it comes to the art of feng shui, it may seem like there are many rules. But in reality, it comes down to balance and simplicity. When looking at furniture pictures in home interior magazines, it's always the simple pictures that look the best. Un-clutter your home and you can un-clutter your life.