The design process according to Vastu

Sat, 03/06/2010

The process of design follows certain rules and steps and is fairly similar whether one is designing a building, book, statue, pots, musical composition or any other art/craft form. These principles of design have been outlined centuries ago and help to achieve a balance between what the rasika or connoisseur wants and the finished product.

The designing process should be based on a thorough understanding of the main principles and basis of design;

1. The first one is Bhogadyam, (the practical and the functional) which says that the designed premise must be useful and lend itself to easy application. A pot that leaks, a toy that is difficult for a child to handle etc however aesthetically perfect are of no use according to this premise. To be utilitarian the design must consist of two parts –

• The designer must meet the needs of the user and also be able to provide easy maintainance
• The design should be executed with materials that are strong, durable and easy to use.

2. The second is Sukha Darsham, (aesthetics and sensuousness) in which the designed premise must be aesthetically pleasing. There is a meaningful and specific relationship between the following;

• Size
• Shape
• Proportion
• Color
• Texture
• Aesthetic element

Vaastu states that it is not merely enough for the designed product to meet the practical and functional needs of the user but the design must offer food to the senses. Design must also be a sensuous and aesthetic experience.

3. The third principle is Ramya, (spiritual harmony and inner poise) where the designed premise should evoke a feeling of well being in the user.  Vaastu shastras describe the balance, rhythm and harmony between the inner space and the outer form (of the building or any other design product) as the primary goal of architecture.

For the designed article or building to be understood as a complete vaastu experience, it is important that the functional, aesthetic and the emotional/spiritual aspects are in complete balance and harmony.

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