Home feng shui for harmonious kitchen design

Expert advice on designing and remodeling for good kitchen feng shui from Kerry Tabor, feng shui consultant at Spirit of Design.

Q. What's something that many people may not know about house design and feng shui?

A. Much fuss is made about feng shui superstitions in houses and kitchens, like the direction of the stove, or the placement of mirrors and lucky frogs. But many people are surprised to learn that most feng shui solutions are quite practical, logical, tasteful and aesthetic. After all, the ultimate goal of feng shui is to achieve a harmony between person and place.

Q. How is the environment considered in feng shui principles?

A. Feng shui seeks to promote conscious and harmonious living, so respect for both health and the environment is very important. For good kitchen feng shui, I recommend using non-toxic paints and finishes for floors, walls and cupboards. Popular two-pak glossy finishes are environmentally unfriendly to produce and emit high levels of volatile organic compounds that are unhealthy to live in.

Q. What's the best way to approach feng shui in kitchen design?

A. Rather than focus on the many home feng shui do's and don'ts, it's more useful to pay attention to the dynamics of the building and the style of the kitchen, in terms of shape, colours, orientation and sources of light. The needs and personalities of the occupants also need to be considered, such as how they like to cook.

Q. What are some quick, inexpensive ways to improve feng shui in your kitchen?

A. Eliminate clutter and neglect for excellent house feng shui. Clutter creates congestion, obstruction, frustration and conflict and neglect reveals a lack of care. A messy kitchen is more likely to invite accidents. Also, fix faulty electrical appliances and replace cracked tiles. An attractive bowl of fresh fruit on the benchtop will add a splash of colour and life force to a dull kitchen.

Q. Why is the position of the cook, in terms of kitchen layout, important in feng shui?

A. During meal preparation, the cook is the most important person in the kitchen. Therefore, their position should be strong and supported with a solid wall at their back and a clear view. If this isn't possible, it will help to place a small mirror on the stove so they can see any disturbance behind them.

Q. How can home feng shui assist a kitchen design in a home renovation?

A. Using kitchen feng shui has the potential to achieve a space that's more harmonious and auspicious. For example, the cook is placed in a strong position and danger from hot, sharp or cutting items is avoided. Feng shui achieves balance by avoiding extremes. 'Yang' qualities expressed through hard surfaces, heat and noise can be countered with 'yin' features like soft or textured surfaces.

If you have any questions about kitchen or house feng shui design, find a feng shui expert in your area: