Why the North-East Matters: Vastu and the Morning Sun
The Ishanya corner is the most sacred zone in Vastu. Here is the tradition behind it — and what the sun path tells us.
Plot & House Planning
Plot & House Planning
Choosing and orienting a plot, placing the building on it, and laying out zones before a single wall is drawn.
Traditional Vastu guidance
- Square or rectangular plots are preferred; irregular shapes, cut corners and very narrow plots are traditionally avoided.
- Ground ideally slopes down toward the north and east; the south-west should be the highest point.
- Leave more open space on the north and east sides of the plot than on the south and west.
- Keep the centre of the house (Brahmasthana) open and free of columns, toilets and heavy loads.
- Zone the plan: puja and water in the north-east, kitchen in the south-east, master bedroom in the south-west, guests and stores in the north-west.
Practical & building science
- Orient the long axis of the building roughly east–west where possible. This exposes the long north and south façades — the easiest to shade — and minimises east and west walls, which take the low, hard-to-shade sun.
- Map the prevailing winds for your city across seasons; place openings so breezes can pass through the main living spaces.
- Check drainage, soil, setbacks and local bye-laws before finalising any layout; these override any directional preference.
- Plan for trees: deciduous trees on the south and west give summer shade and let winter sun through.
Checklist
Tick off what your home already has. (Your ticks are not saved or sent anywhere.)
Common challenges
The plot is irregular or has a cut corner
Design a regular-shaped building within it and use the leftover area as garden, parking or utility. Traditional practitioners sometimes suggest boundary walls or planting to "square off" the plot.
The road is on the south or west
This is extremely common and perfectly workable. Choose the entrance position carefully, set the building back, and use a deep veranda, trees or screens to temper afternoon sun on the road façade.
Traditional Vastu recommendations are presented for cultural and educational interest and are not guaranteed to produce any particular outcome. For structural changes or safety questions, consult a qualified architect or engineer.
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