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Vastu for toilets is one of the most challenging concept to deal with, while designing homes. A toilet is considered the epicentre of negativity in any living space. In traditional Vedic architecture, the toilet was always designed as a small cabin away from the main structure. Since India was colonised, restrooms were integrated into our homes and keeping the cabin away from the main structure became difficult. In this week’s edit, Namrataa Kripallani, a Vastukar from Pune tells us how to deal with the conundrum of using a restroom, whilst living in a modern-day city apartment.
A project by architect Binesh Balagopal of Nvironment Planning
As per Vastu for toilets, the toilet should be at the south-of-southwest (SSW) of the home, as it is referred to as ‘the disposal corner.’ Other suitable directions include west-of-northwest (WNW) which is the ‘detox corner', or the east-of-southeast (ESE) which is the ‘anxiety corner'. Placing toilets in these directions is believed to minimise the negative impact on the overall Vastu energy of the house and aligns with the natural spatial energies of those specific zones.
It is absolutely essential to avoid constructing toilets in the northeast direction at all costs. The northeast corner, known as the ‘Ishaan Kon’, is considered sacred and represents the origin of spiritual flow. Installing a toilet in this area is believed to disrupt the flow of positivity, leading to various issues such as health problems and a disturbed mind.
Kripallani agrees that in an apartment setup, relocating a toilet is not always possible. In such a scenario, she advises tiling the room in hues of green, placing a bowl of salt in the toilet, and peppering the space with a few low-light plants. “Also call a Vastukar to hang a metal plate called an energy grid, in space,” she says.
Also read: 7 dramatic bathroom design ideas for a chic black look
A project by Interiors by Mili
Dark colours like black, dark blue and red should be avoided in toilets. “Neutral tones like off-white or beige are ideal for water closets,” Kripallni says. If you still wish to use colours, use light colours according to the direction of the toilet: shades of blues in the north, green in the east, pinks and peaches in the south, and white in the west direction.
It is recommended that individuals avoid facing east or west while using the toilet. Instead, facing north or south is considered more conducive to space. “By aligning oneself with these directions, one can harmonise with the natural energy currents and promote a sense of well-being and balance.
Also read: Colourful bathroom ideas to illuminate the most intimate room
A project by interior designer Shraddha Shah of Olive Roof
Ensuring the proper maintenance of taps and showers is not merely a matter of convenience; it holds significant implications according to Vastu principles. “In the Shastras, even minor leaks from taps or showers are believed to exert a detrimental influence on the financial well-being of the residents,” the Vastukar says. Logically, the persistent presence of water due to leaks can create dampness and moisture in affected areas, which can lead to structural damage over time, necessitating costly repairs and maintenance.
It’s essential for the floor of a bathroom to slope either towards the east or north to ensure efficient drainage. Aligning the slope of the bathroom floor with the direction of the water flow and drainage outlet is crucial for effective water removal.
Adequate airflow helps to remove odours, moisture, and airborne impurities, ensuring a clean and refreshing atmosphere. Installing an exhaust fan in the toilet is highly recommended to facilitate proper ventilation and air circulation. The best place to have an exhaust is in the east or the northeast direction of the toilet.
A project by Fahed+Architects
The north is associated with the element of water in Hinduism, and is considered highly favourable for water-related features such as showers and bathtubs. Water symbolises prosperity, abundance, and purification in Vastu Shastra, and placing the shower area or bathtub in the north direction is believed to enhance these qualities.
A project by interior designer Sanjyt Syngh
Appliances like a geyser should be placed in the south-east direction of the bathroom. The southeast direction, associated with the element of fire and the planet Shukra, placing the geyser in this direction helps to balance the elemental energies within the bathroom, as fire complements the water element typically associated with bathrooms.
Using salt water solutions for cleaning the toilets is another potent method employed in Vastu Shastra. Salt has long been revered for its ability to absorb negative energies and purify the surrounding environment. One can even place a bowl of sea salt or Himalayan salt crystals in the toilet and change it on a weekly basis as salt absorbs all the negativity in the environment around.
Also read: 7 creative ways to upgrade the guest bathroom in your home
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