Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese practice where spatial arrangements and orientations are seen to effect the flow of energy in a home has gained intense popularity in recent years, especially in "free thinking" cities such as Los Angeles and San Diego. Feng Shui for example, directs us where to place furniture, home water features and what colors to consider for particular rooms and living areas. The main point of this practice is to harmonize our space and assist in maintaining our own inner peace. Another benefit of practicing Feng Shui is that it can spark creativity and innovation in home decor planning.
image courtesy of coloryourstory.com
A crucial element in a home is the "mouth," meaning the front door. This opening is said to be the "entry of Chi" or the portal of energy into a home. In Classical Feng Shui the front door color should be aligned with the direction the door faces and the element that correlates with that direction. Sound confusing? We've provided a break down of the basic color/directions for you below:
East facing door
Element: Wood
Door color: green, brown, blue, black, very light yellow and all earthy colors
image courtesy of kelleydenby.com
South East facing door
Element: Wood, also associated with money/wealth sector of the home
Door color: greens, browns, blues, blacks and very light yellow/sand
image courtesy of weithouse.com
South facing door
Element: Fire
Door color: red, purple, strong yellow, deep orange, deep pink, green and brown colors
image courtesy of twotexansmoveeast.wordpress.com
South West facing door
Element: Earth, also associated with love and marriage
Door color: greens, browns, earth tones and sand, red, purple, deep orange, strong yellow, rich pinks
image courtesy of myamusings.com
West facing door
Element: Metal
Door color: white, gray, light yellow and all earthy/sandy colors
image courtesy of weithouse.com
North West facing door:
Element: Metal, also associated with helpful people and blessings
Door color: white and gray tones, light yellow, earth and sandy colors
Image courtesy of seezet.com
North facing door:
Element: Water
Door color: blue, black, white and gray
image courtesy of cecyj.com
North East facing door:
Element: Earth, also associated with spirituality
Door color: all earthy tones, red, purple, deep orange, yellow and rich pink
image courtesy of diynetwork.com
Applying Feng Shui to your front door not only livens the entry for your guests and creates peace in the home, it also adds curb appeal! First impressions are everything when viewing a property and a "wow" factor door can add that needed pop of color to excite the public.
image courtesy of hgtv.com
Need help picking out the right shade and paint brand? Read this article for more advice: http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/paints/buying-guide.htm