We're fans of feng shui because it's about more than just aesthetics; it's about creating a harmonious balance that enhances both function and form. True feng shui practitioners focus on functionality first, knowing that the design will naturally follow. In the kitchen, this balance is achieved through the careful integration of the five elements: metal, water, wood, fire, and earth. By thoughtfully incorporating these elements into your space, from the countertops to the kitchen cabinets, you create a visually appealing environment that promotes positive energy and well-being.
What is the best feng shui for a kitchen?
Here are 7 ways you can focus on functional, feng shui principles while planning your new kitchen design.
1. Eliminate Clutter
Feng shui focuses on manifesting positive, evenly flowing chi (energy) in your life. Clutter is the enemy of chi. Modern medicine has proven that disorganization is the enemy of peace and relaxation on this side of the globe as well. If clutter is a norm in your kitchen, do the work of shedding unused items and then use smart storage options to neatly organize and store kitchen contents, freeing up visible countertop space.
2. Think about flow
Continuing the theme of energetic flow, you deserve to work in a kitchen that accommodates your personal and household habits. While taking design cues from magazines and websites is a good idea, ultimately - you and your kitchen designer need to come up with a layout specifically tailored to the ways your family uses the kitchen.
3. Position it properly
If you have no other option, it's better to place your kitchen near the back door. Try to avoid putting it in the center of your home. Ideally, the best location is in the East or South, as this promotes the fire element.
4. Use a variety of textures
We mentioned balancing the elements above. You can do this in your kitchen by ensuring there is a little something of each in your design. This keeps your design from looking boring. For example, sleek and streamlined is nice, but not if there aren't any textures to compare it with. Think about wood finished cabinets or reclaimed lumber accents. Stainless steel appliances take care of your metal while quartz countertops can lend the appearance of stone - as would a granite backsplash. Water is covered by the faucets and fire by your stove tops.
5. Design a beautiful lighting plan
Dark corners are a big no-no in feng shui and we agree. Kitchen lighting should be designed to facilitate both task and ambiance.
6. Be respectful of your budget
If the kitchen is the command center of your home's wealth and abundance, you don't want to blow your own budget to remodel it. DO be disciplined about creating a kitchen remodeling budget and sticking to it. If you can't have everything you want right now, that's okay. Find a kitchen design-build team that will take the phased approach and help you build it out over time.
7. Make it timeless
If clutter, chaos and upset are the enemies of feng shui, remodels should be kept to a minimum. Design a kitchen that is timeless, not trendy, so your remodel will last for at least another decade or two.
8. Design for the generations
Asian culture reveres their elders, and families often live with or very near parents and grandparents. This makes the kitchen - and home - a multigenerational space. Try to design a kitchen that is comfortable and accessible to every age and ability.
Where to find stylish kitchen cabinets and accessories?
While we admit that the Kitchen Magic designers aren't feng shui experts, we believe our design principles align perfectly with its concepts. Let us help you create a beautiful, functional kitchen that encourages the flow of good energy and great meals for your household. Just give us a call at (866) 525-0012 or set up a free design consultation to discuss your ideas—you'll love the results for years to come.
