Feng Shui: A New Design for a New Year

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Feng shui, which translates to “wind and water” is the artful design technique intended to bring positive energy and balance into your home. The technique incorporates elements of nature and aims to draw the flow of Chi, or positive energy, into and through your house.  The following are the three basic principles of feng sui and how to incorporate them into your home:

Principle 1: Life

The feng shui belief is that everything in a room is alive. Each detail is comprised of molecules and atoms, and those microscopic elements have an energy of their own that they contribute to the overall energy of the room they inhabit. Each item also carries the energy of our memories, experiences and emotions with it. This connotative energy influences the impression of a room. Therefore, things that you associate with pleasant memories and experiences will create a feeling of affection and comfort in a room, while items that do not have this can create a feeling of sadness and resentment. Decorate your room sparingly, so as to not clutter the space, and with objects that bring you joy and happiness.

This contemporary Washington, DC Bedroom has a simple design that is uncluttered, but still brings life and energy to the room.  The owners have chosen a light color pallete, artwork for a favorite artist and kept the room open to the rest of the home for the constant flow of energy.  The dark wood flooring is a nice contrast to the lighter walls and reflects the ying and yang.

Principle 2: Connection

Feng shui also asserts that everything in a room is connected. The pieces you place in a room reflect your culture, beliefs and desires, which are often shared by others. You are connected to the people around you, and you bring your feelings toward those people home with you. Those feelings can either be positive or negative; regardless, the residual effect will be present in your room. When choosing a theme for your decor, look to concepts that embody your own identity and culture to allow you and your guests to connect with the space.

This bedroom features well connected interior decor elements that calm the space, but also maintain the energy in the room with the light colored walls, white oak hardwood flooring, and greenery.

Principle 3: Change

Lastly, feng shui is founded on the belief that everything is always changing. It promotes acceptance of change and aims to focus your energy on creating positive change. One element that is indicative of change is the lighting of your room. Day changes to night and summer gives way to fall. Use the elemental changes in light to create an equilibrium in your bedroom.

Natural lighting can affect the overall look and feel of any room, so the kind of window treatment you choose for your bedroom should draw in Chi and reflect your personal style. Blinds and drapes yield different effects. For example, adjustable shades are perfect for bedrooms as you can allow light in and block out the dark as night approaches. When your windows become black and bare at night, the negative of the Yin can overcome your room, so drapes or blinds that close easily can help you hold onto the constructive power of the Yang that you absorbed all day. In the day time, tie these curtains back or open your blinds to allow maximum light into your bedroom.  You can also change the curtain colors or designs to match the current season for continuity and a balanced space.

This family home in Boulder, Colorado incorporate plenty of natural light throughout the common areas so the owners can enjoy all the elemental changes that come each day, and each season.  The Hickory hardwood flooring itself adds personality with it’s own contrast of light and dark, which reflects the natural growth of the timber from which it came.

It’s the little things that matter in developing a safe, positive and enjoyable home. Use the principles of feng shui to your advantage, remembering life, connection and change are very good things indeed.

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