Are Vastu principles relevant in Sustainable Design?

The sustainability movement has emerged just a few decades ago, as a reaction to the harmful consequences caused by two centuries of industrialization. While the goals of sustainable design and construction are laudable and its development absolutely necessary, it is still grappling with finding a holistic basis for solving our pressing environmental problems.

The development of green building technologies is based on the process of observing what doesn’t work, searching for what could, and experimenting to find the best solutions. While there is much that is valuable in the sustainable architecture movement, much of it can be correlated to the ancient guiding principles of Vastu Shastra.

Let’s explore some pressing Sustainability concerns, and how Vastu Principles play a part in supporting their solution!

1. Natural Ventilation

Sustainability says: We need to optimize the movement of sun and wind in a structure, by logically placing our openings.  

Vastu principle: Vastu suggests the placement of large openings towards the north and east to ensure better-filtered light and wind.  

Source: happho.com

2. Shade and Shadow

Sustainability says: Structures can easily reduce their energy consumption with the help of maximum light exposure.  

Vastu principle: According to Vastu, it is recommended to build low-rise structures in the northeast and taller structures in the southwest.  

Source: www.mountainliving.com

3. Thermal Comfort

Sustainability says: Structures must aim for maximum thermal comfort with minimum artificial factors, thus helping with energy efficiency.  

Vastu principle: The cardinal directions and sun position help maintain the light and ventilation in any space, as a key element of Vastu.    

Source: www.yourhome.gov.au

4. Solar Radiation

Sustainability says: The aim is to design for the summer and winter solstice, to optimize for the ideal solar radiation consumption.  

Vastu principle: Vastu helps in designing for maximum exposure to solar radiation, contributing towards lower energy consumption.  

Source: First in Architecture

5. Water Bodies

Sustainability says: Water bodies near a structure help in maintaining microclimate, whether it is in an artificial or natural form.  

Vastu principle: As per Vastu Shastra, water bodies are suggested in the north, northeast, or eastern side for better growth.

Source: www.boeingconsult.com 

Are you an architect or interior designer who is skeptical but curious to understand the logic behind Vastu and learn about it in a more practical way? Join us for a one-day masterclass on the Practical Applications of Vastu Shashtra and upskill today!