The ancient Chinese tradition of Feng Shui (or ‘wind-water’) is thought by practitioners to help bring people into harmony with their environment. In the world of modern interior design, the principles of Feng Shui are often drawn on to create a feeling of positivity and mental clarity.
In the kitchen, which is arguably the most important room in a modern home, there’s a special role for Feng Shui to play. Let’s take a look at how we might make use of it.
Balancing the elements
According to Feng Shui, there are five elements (wu xing). These are wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Keeping these five in balance, and not allowing any of them to dominate a space, will help us to feel as though our home is stable and safe – which in a luxury fitted kitchen is vital.
So, where might we include each of these elements? Wooden furniture, earthy tones in the walls and ceiling, and stainless steel, brass and chrome accents can all help. The fire and water are easily provided by a kitchen, especially if you have a gas hob.
Positioning
The arrangement of your kitchen arguably matters just as much as the things that go into it. The stove is, according to this tradition, a source of wealth and nourishment. It should be positioned such that it is visible from the entrance to the room – this places the cook in an advantageous position. Avoid cabinets whose corners point directly toward the stove, as this can disrupt the room’s positive energy, and create negative energy (or ‘Sha Chi’).
Declutter
The ancient Chinese were just as concerned with the elimination of clutter as we are today, and for much the same reason. Countertops should be kept clear, as should cabinets. This way, the space will not only look better; it will also help to keep the space much more organised and pleasant to use. Get into the habit of clearing everything away after you’re done cooking – once you’ve built it, you’ll find it much easier to stay on top of the clutter.
Natural light
When natural light is free to pour into the space, it will create a sense of openness and positivity. The same applies to ventilation: fresh air is vibrant and invigorating. It’s a good idea to favour thin blinds over curtains in the kitchen, as these will maximise the influx of sunlight. Indoor plants are also a Feng Shui boon, as they are associated with growth and prosperity.
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