Mystical Feng Shui & The Art Of Water Feature Design: Where They Intersect

Six thousand years ago, the Yangshao and Hongshan cultures of ancient China were the first recorded groups to utilize what we recognize today as the art of Feng Shui. Using a combination of astronomy and their own spiritually devised magnetic compass, they determined sites where they would build their permanent homes. This would mark the beginning of a set of long-standing cultural traditions that continue to influence the lives of individuals, and the spaces they inhabit, to this day.

For the uninitiated, Feng Shui is a Chinese practice that revolves around the harmonization of people and their surroundings through the balancing of energy forces. These forces, which are cumulatively known as qi, are conducive to prosperity, good health, and general well-being. According to tradition, qi can be captured on a domestic level by keeping an orderly and thoughtfully constructed living space. 

While many dismiss Feng Shui as a form of pseudoscience, its relevance and impact within the world of architectural design is certainly noteworthy. Since water is considered an essential element that enhances the effects of qi, this influence directly corresponds with the design and placement of water features. In addition to cleansing and de-ionizing the air around it, the flow of water helps attract positive energy, making it integral to any Feng Shui practitioners. Here are some of the ways that these seemingly contrary entities interact:

Placement: Where you choose to place your fountain has a profound impact on its effectiveness as an energy channeling structure. Determining the perfect spot relies on the notion of bagua, or, the energy map of the space itself. Generally speaking, it is recommended that the water feature be placed along the East, Southeast, or Northern areas of the building in question. 

Each of these compass points ties to a different type of energy production. For example, those who choose to install a fountain along the East side of their building will experience effects tied to good health and strong family bonds. The Southeast, on the other hand, is indicative of wealth and abundance. 

Other elements of Feng Shui make themselves present in different parts of the living space, and it is important to understand how they interact. Case in point, the South side of a building is designated as the resting place for the ‘fire’ element. Placing a water feature here will inevitably create conflict between the two, which can be disastrous for qi production. Should one be looking to place a feature indoors, the bedroom is to be avoided – even installing a fountain in the room below can cause worry and sorrow.

Structure: With a philosophical practice that hinges around the elements, it should come as no surprise that the materials used to construct your water feature are of utmost importance. As a general rule, stainless steel metallic fountains are preferable, due to the fact that metal and water can work in tandem to enhance energy.

Pointed edges and sharp angles are regarded as ‘poison arrows’ which can inherently damage any benefits. With this in mind, architects aiming to integrate Feng Shui within their designs should always consider reducing the number of abrupt contours. The optimally styled water feature is one that flows architecturally, henceforth directly mimicking the element that it perpetuates. 

The flow of the water itself is also fundamentally important. Unsurprisingly, gentle, trickling flows are in general preferred to loud, rushing torrents. Directionally, designers should aim to ensure that the water flows towards its corresponding building, rather than away. While the former helps produce energy, the latter draws wealth and prosperity away from those who inhabit the structure.   

Feng Shui is an ancient practice that is a key influencer of many architectural decisions, including the design and placement of water features. By taking heed of the aforementioned information, designers can benefit by attracting Feng Shui practitioners while also constructing features that emphasize relaxing flows and calming ambiance. Vincent Helton & Associates’ talented team has integrated the principles of this philosophy into several of our projects. Inspiration comes in many forms, and we are proud to tie these traditions into our handiwork.