How modern house design blocks positive energy - Balance between Yin and Yang
The houses we live in have a huge impact on our wellbeing, as do the times we are living in. I enjoy observing different houses in various areas and the visible changes that occur over time. Regardless of personal taste in architectural style, the homes people live in should be built to receive and hold vital, beneficial energy for their occupants. They should support inhabitants in thriving and living happy, healthy lives.
Why the energy does not know where to enter
Lately, I have noticed several extravagant new villas that were built and then stood empty or were resold just two to three years later. This villa is one of them (see pictures).
This house is overly Yang and extreme in form. It is composed almost entirely of square shapes, hard angles, and sharp corners. The use of colour is primarily restricted to black and white, with clashing fiery accents. As a result, the character of the rooms feels strict, rigid, and even extreme. The front façade, for example, does not have a single window.
Modern architecture often emphasises strong contrasts to highlight clean, block-like forms. In this case, the ground floor façade is dark, using rough stone masonry. The front door is black and visually disappears into the dark-coloured plinth. As a result, the energy does not know where to enter. The upper volume of the house, in contrast, is white.
To compensate for the closed front façade, the rear of the house is almost entirely open, with large, minimally framed glass panels that present the garden like a postcard view. This effect is further reinforced by the swimming pool, which is visually aligned with the living space.
To introduce warmth into the otherwise cold materials, an artificial, striking red light has been added. The pool and terrace also follow rigid, linear forms. The pool is too close to the house and is located in the south of the plot, which is not an ideal placement in the current time cycle. Incorrect placement of water in the garden can have a negative impact on the health of the occupants.
Creating energy imbalance
Inside, the staircase cuts through the living space, dividing it in two and creating an unsettling effect when sitting at the dining table or relaxing in the lounge area. There is not even a wall separating the garage from the kitchen. On the bright side, it might save time— one could grab a coffee and step straight into the car. However, I doubt that the smell of a car adds much to the flavour of the food prepared in the kitchen.
What we need instead
The time cycle we are currently living in is highly Yang and fast-paced. Change is constant and often overwhelming. This makes it even more important to create space for rest, stillness, and recovery—both within ourselves and in our environment. Extreme colours and overly rigid design do not support this need. What is required is balance between Yin and Yang. In these times, it is advisable to use softer colours and forms that help us relax and restore equilibrium in our homes.
In Chue Style Feng Shui, we understand the principles of subtle energy and their relationship to shape and form. A qualified Feng Shui consultant can help you create a more balanced and supportive environment.