4 of 6

Write now Article Tools

Applying principles of feng shui to small spaces is a distinct challenge; feng shui is after all the practice of placement and arrangement of space. The challenge is made harder still by the fact that many small spaces are often required to be multi-functional, such as a studio apartment or a private room in a shared house. This need to combine different activities and uses for the one room, which in itself is not blessed with space results in some rules of feng shui having to be broken, or at least bent a little.

However, there is still much use in the practice of feng shui for small spaces and if applied in a sensible and practical way it can reap many of the same benefits and allow you to get the most out of your space.

The first, and arguably most important rule, is to keep the room clutter free. Clutter will make a small space seem even smaller and create a feeling of imprisonment along with blocking energy channels. Storing things is therefore a must in small spaces and certain rules of feng shui, such as not keeping things under the bed are likely to have to be broken. But the benefits of being clutter free will far outweigh the chi-blocking effects of having storage under the bed. Perhaps one idea is to keep out of season clothing, towels and bedding under there while storing harder objects in drawers and cabinets. Shelving should also be maximized to keep the room clutter free.

The next rule is that where the space is used for the function of sleeping then the bed must take priority. Feng shui dictates that certain objects such as beds, desks, sofas and so forth must occupy the command position in a room, that is that they take the prime place. But with many small spaces any number or even all of these objects may need to be fitted into the same room. If this has to be the case then the bed should take priority as without the positive energy of sleep nothing else will flow properly anyway. If a desk and a bed have to occupy the same room then they should be kept as far apart as is possible.

Next comes color, which can be used to great effect in small spaces. The key here is to ensure colors are light and bright, using pale whites and creams for the walls with personal touches of preferred colors being saved for smaller items. In order to help generate an illusion of space try painting three walls in a light cream or white and the fourth wall in a slightly darker (but still light) color, such as a pale green or blue. The lighting of the room should compliment the colors and promote brightness, but be careful not to rely solely on ceiling lighting as this will create shadows. Instead use desk lights and floor lights to provide a range of lighting sources from different angles.

Another crucial element to using feng shui to effect in small rooms is to create a energised focal point. It is all too easy for the eye to be drawn to a desk in these type of rooms which will create stress at the thought of work, or instead it may be drawn to the bed which will channel tired feelings and thoughts of sleep. Instead it is better to create your own focal point with a piece of artwork or a poster that will give you a positive feeling. Ensure the focal point is lit well at night to keep the focus of the eye when entering the room.

Finally, a top feng shui tip for small spaces is to utilize mirrors. Mirrors can create more space and light in a room by reflecting and are especially effective if positioned where they will reflect a window.

In essence with small spaces the key to effective use of feng shui techniques is to suit them to your own needs. Know that sleep is most important and then go from there.

Learn more about this author, Paul Linsell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Feng shui tips for small spaces?
We want to hear your view. Write now!