Geometry is found virtually everywhere from nature to the universe and within human beings. We commonly think of geometric patterns as a form of design to add depth, shape or bounce to a room. However, in Feng Shui, the belief is that all patterns are infinite in structure. For example, the bathroom tile structure has a beginning and an end, but technically the pattern is infinitely repeatable.
So what happens when we incorporate nature’s patterns within room design? We identify geometric shapes related to the Feng Shui bagua chart to discover meaning, symbolism and purpose for each pattern or shape. Feng shui interconnects universal laws with room design. In life, as there is destruction and creation and the same applies to shapes in design – it can create or destruct various energies.
Circle
The circle encompasses various 3D shapes such as cylinders, cones, spheres and the torus. Symbolically, it represents many universal qualities that humans connect with such as the sun, moon, planets and other celestial formations. Thus, it features divine connection. The circle is rooted to many ancient cultures and viewed as the “perfect shape,” which has no beginning or end. It is in perfect unity such as the yin yang symbol. It also represents balance and unification. However, it can drain warm and strong energy. It represents fire and the south aspect on the bagua chart.
Heptagon
This 7-sided shape represents the south and west pillars on the bagua chart, and represents earth. The heptagon shape has a heavy bottom, which grounds the symbol to earth, but with hopes to still reach for the sky, air. It represents Chi, or energy, which ascends upward from the bottom up.
Diamond
Diamond is located on the western aspect of the chart and represents the element, metal. The four-sided diamond is symmetrical that offers aesthetically pleasing notions from a design and spatial viewpoint. The diamond shape is significant in jewelry and architectural designs due to this quality. In Feng Shui, the diamond is used to capture energy. The diamond holds incoming energy the longest, which does not release energy quickly.
Oval
Located in the northwest corner of the chart, oval represents metal and sky. Similar to circle, the oval has different features including having the ability to hold warm, strong energy, unlike the circle. This creates a balance with yin from the northwest direction.
Rectangle
Rectangles feature two identical lines that are parallel with each other. Due to the line structure, this allows one to have a sense of spatial stability. Alone the rectangle is rigid, static or overpowers with strength. If a 3D object is added to a rectangle it increases dynamic and active energy. Associated with water, which always flows, the rectangle holds the water to keep it stationary and stable.
Octagon
The eight-sided shape represents the northeast corner of the pillar and earth and mountains. Octagons (and pentagons) balance yin and yang energy. Thus, if one area is lacking yin and yang, place an octagon there to balance energy and prosperity. The pentagon features more yin and the octagon exudes more yang. Therefore, use these shapes to balance throughout the room.
Hexagon
The six-sided shape represents wood and the east pillar of the chart. The hexagon signifies higher wisdom and spirituality. This shape is often used in religious space designs to exude peace and calmness. This shape also replicates various natural chemical bonds such as snowflakes and honeycombs.
Square
Squares represent the southeast corner and the element wood and wind. With four equal sides, chi, or energy, flows in and out easily within rooms. In the southeast corner, squares boost wealth and prosperity, or the opposite loss. It is most ideal to use squares with other complimentary shapes to keep positive energy flowing.
Triangle
The triangle is the center of bagua chart because it signifies three dimensions, space, body and time. Triangles replicate different meanings depending on if the triangle’s apex is facing up or down. The upside down triangle signifies passive, yin energy. On the other hand, the upward facing triangle associates with active, yang energy.
