Ideas for Optimizing a Feng Shui Studio Apartment

A feng shui studio apartment presents unique challenges and opportunities compared to a house with distinct rooms. Yet one could argue that using feng shui design techniques in a studio apartment is even more necessary than using these techniques in a huge house. There is much less available space in a studio apartment, so every area counts.

Applying feng shui principles to your studio apartment will not just optimize the use of the space; you can also use feng shui design to create a harmonious environment that is supportive of your goals and well-being.

Feng Shui Studio Apartment Tips

Feng Shui Studio Apartment Tips

Learn how to overcome the challenges of limited space and lack of separate areas with these feng shui ideas.

Keep the Area Clutter Free and Clean

There is much less space for your dirt and clutter to hide in a studio apartment than in a house. Not only does clutter take up valuable space in your studio apartment, but it can also block the flow of energy and lead to stagnant energy areas. These can have a negative impact on your well-being.

Use this lack of space as a positive rather than a negative feature. Sort through your stuff and keep the things that you use regularly or that bring you joy. For the rest, donate or discard it. Also, it is vital that you begin to change your buying habits and only purchase things that you need or love. Not only is this best for your apartment, you are also helping to reduce what eventually goes into landfills.

Keeping your space clean and well-maintained creates good feng shui and is better for your health and well-being. Address dirty or broken items to make sure that they aren’t attracting negative energy. Try to maintain a weekly cleaning schedule to keep your space tidy. Your apartment will look great and make you feel even better.

Create a Layout with Distinct Zones

Studio apartments are challenging to arrange because they are one large open space that you can arrange in a variety of ways. One method is to use a bagua map to help you choose an optimal layout for your studio. Overlay a bagua map with your space aligning the entrance area with the Career section of the bagua. Many feng shui experts use the bagua to choose where to place certain areas. For example, many would locate the bed in the rear right section of the apartment because this is the area that signifies love and relationship, or they might place the office area to the left of the entrance.

Sometimes, a studio apartment space is flexible enough that a bagua can aid you, but for other spaces, the area is best arranged in a particular way. It is better to create the best flow for the space rather than try to force an arrangement that doesn’t work.

Whatever your final layout, you should seek to distinctly define each area. Most importantly, you should try to separate public and private areas. This allows you to create a private space for rest and sleep without letting active areas like living rooms and study interfere. Use movable furniture pieces like bookcases or screens to create distinct and “private” areas. Rugs are also helpful in creating a defined space.

Maximize Natural and Other Light Sources

The problem with many studio apartment spaces is the lack of natural light. This is problematic in feng shui designs as natural light is one of the best sources of positive energy. For studio apartments, it is vital to make the best use of all possible natural light and still protect your privacy.

Keep your window furnishings minimal. Sheer curtains allow light but help you maintain privacy are ideal window coverings in studio apartments. Another helpful way to maximize natural light is to paint your walls white. This color lets light bounce off of the walls and helps your space feel brighter and less gloomy.

When you don’t have many sources of natural light, it is vital that you add layered lighting sources to keep your space from looking dark. Consider each area of your studio. Add different sources of ambient and task lighting that will allow you to operate comfortably in the evening and accomplish the tasks you value.

Create an Auspicious Entry

The entry of your home is one of the most vital in all feng shui design. It is called the “mouth of chi” because it is the place where energy enters your personal space. Keep the entrance clear and unobstructed by clutter to allow energy to flow freely inside. Define the space with a rug or a mirror that you place adjacent to the door. For a larger space, use a bookcase or set of shelves to create a more distinct entryway. Make sure that your entry is well-lit as you attract negative energy with dimly lit spaces.

Establish Command Positions

Feng Shui Establish Command Positions

In each distinct location, try to establish the most important piece of furniture in the command position. This is not always possible for every section. You will probably have to make compromises in some sections but try to establish command positions for the pieces of furniture where you spend the most time.

  • Bed – To create a space where you can get the most restful sleep, it is essential to position your bed in a command position. A command position is where you can see the entrance but are not directly in line with it. Try to position your bed with a wall behind it. This secure position will allow you to rest more easily.
  • Sofa – Your sofa is the most important piece of furniture in the living room area. Try to keep it out of the direct line of the front door but still in a place where you can see the entrance while sitting on the sofa. Position the sofa against a solid wall if you can. Anchor the back of the sofa with a bookcase or shelf if you cannot place the sofa against a wall.
  • Desk – Establish a command position for your desk by positioning it so that you can see the entrance while sitting at the desk. Use a mirror on the wall directed toward the entrance if you cannot place your desk facing outward.

Use Colors Carefully

Because of the holistic nature of studio apartments, it is worth carefully considering your color scheme for your space. It is best to use soothing colors for your large spaces and then add vibrant colors with other decor items. Use colors to activate the five elements and the energy they represent. You can also use a bagua map to help you determine auspicious color choices for certain areas of your space. Try to create a balance of yin and yang energy in your overall color scheme.

Add Plants

Plants are beneficial in feng shui design as they help to purify the air. Choose plants whose needs match the light and humidity conditions of your space. Plants with rounded leaves are ideal in feng shui spaces. Plants with pointy or spiky leaves are believed to create aggressive energy. Whatever plants you choose, be sure to maintain their health, as sick and dying plants attract negative energy.

Choose Your Furniture and Decor with Intention

Studio apartments do not have extra space for large and bulky furniture and decor. Buy furniture that has a minimalist shape to ensure that you allow space between furniture for the optimal flow of energy. Do not invest in furniture that doesn’t serve a purpose; instead, choose furniture and decor that can double for different purposes. Use a low bookcase for storage and for a dining room sideboard. A dining table can function as a dining space and part-time home desk.