Vastu shastra
![]() |
Vastu Shastra (VS) is an ancient Hindu system of architecture and design that also embodies traditional Buddhist beliefs. It literally means the ‘science of dwelling’ and aims to achieve harmony and prosperous living by eliminating negative energies and enhancing the positive ones. Just like Feng Shui, it can be applied to buildings in the hope that they will become better places for the heart and soul.
Vastu Shastra is the written part of Vastu Vidya – the ancient wider theories of architecture and design from ancient India.
At the core of Vastu Shastra is the idea that energy is all around us, some of which has positive effects on humans and some negative. Eliminating the negative and enhancing the positive at any location will help building occupants – whether individuals, families or businesses – to become not only more prosperous and progressive but also to think and act positively. Such 'enhanced' places are claimed to be more in tune with ‘mother nature’, helping people to live balanced and happy lives.
According to proponents of Vastu Shastra, if a building is not constructed according to VS principles, the effect on those living or working there will be a lack of harmony and progression, leading to a reduction in wealth, illness and even the death of loved ones.
[edit] History
Ancient Vastu Shastra principles cover design, layout, measurements, ground preparation, spatial hierarchy and geometry. They aim to achieve an organic whole that is in harmony with nature. Geometric patterns, symmetry and directional alignments are used to integrate architecture and structure with the natural world.
There were numerous Vastu Shastras on architectural design in ancient India which were circulated up to the tenth century AD. They covered areas such as temple layout, design and construction (so that it becomes a holistic element in the community) and design principles for houses, villages and towns. There might also have been chapters on town planning and house construction, and how to integrate water bodies and gardens to achieve natural harmony.
The Mandala – a spiritual and ritual symbol representing the universe – forms a key component of VS design; it may occupy one square module or many, up to 196 (14 x 14 squares). A typical example of Vastu Shastra design is the symmetrical and concentric layout of Hindu temples where each concentric layer has spiritual and ritual significance (the Mandala).
[edit] Modern usage
The ancient body of Vastu Shastra knowledge is sometimes used as a guide by modern architects, but it is not adhered to as if it were a code. The square grid mandala may be used as a model of organisation but does not form a ground plan. According to Sachdev and Tillotson, employing the mandala concept of VS does not mean that every room has to be square. The basic theme is a core element of central space surrounded by peripheral zones, with direction imparted by spatial function and sunlight (Ref ‘The Making of an Indian City’, Sachdev and Tillotson, Reaktion Books).
Some modern architects such as RIBA gold medallist Charles Correa incorporate VS principles in their work, while Le Corbusier is thought to have used VS in his design for Chandigarh city, India.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Grenfell debarment investigations paused
By request of CPS to safeguard integrity of criminal proceedings. The community reacts.
Delivering for tenants; National Retrofit Hub
New report offers recommendations to strengthen energy efficiency standards to protect private renters.
Government consultations for the summer of 2025
A year of Labour, past and present consultations on the environment, the built environment, training and tax.
CMA competitiveness probe of major housing developers
100 million affordable housing contributions committed with further consultation published.
Homes England supports Greencore Homes
42 new build affordable sustainable homes in Oxfordshire.
Zero carbon social housing: unlocking brownfield potential
Seven ZEDpod strategies for brownfield housing success.
CIOB report; a blueprint for SDGs and the built environment
Pairing the Sustainable Development Goals with projects.
Types, tests, standards and fires relating to external cladding
Brief descriptions with an extensive list of fires for review.
Latest Build UK Building Safety Regime explainer published
Key elements in one short, now updated document.
UKGBC launch the UK Climate Resilience Roadmap
First guidance of its kind on direct climate impacts for the built environment and how it can adapt.
CLC Health, Safety and Wellbeing Strategy 2025
Launched by the Minister for Industry to look at fatalities on site, improving mental health and other issues.
One of the most impressive Victorian architects. Book review.
Common Assessment Standard now with building safety
New CAS update now includes mandatory building safety questions.
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.