House Feng Shui (A Practical Guide for Homeowners)

Author: Cang'er (Editor-in-Chief)
Publisher:
Publishing Time: Not Available
Features: Highly recommended by the Feng Shui Consultant of the Southern District Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong. A definitive guide for home purchase and renovation. The Southern District Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong, highly recommends this Feng Shui classic for home purchase and renovation.
The Chinese have long valued the wisdom of survival, observing natural changes and carefully selecting environments suitable for human growth and development, thus forming a discipline dedicated to studying the relationship between living environments and their layout. Since ancient times, the Chinese philosophy of "harmony between heaven, earth, and humanity" has emphasized the unity of these three realms to achieve a tranquil state that nurtures the mind and body. The book integrates ancient traditions with modern concepts, not only analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of residential site selection, design, planning, and construction from a macro perspective but also conducting in-depth research on micro aspects, such as the arrangement of study rooms, the layout of living rooms, the optimal placement of staircases, and even the arrangement of balconies with potted plants. The content is presented in a clear and orderly manner, with detailed discussions on the auspicious and practical aspects of study room arrangements. It provides essential details for home purchase and renovation, making it a highly practical home reference book.
Cang'er holds a master's degree in literature and has been a university lecturer in folklore. For many years, he has been engaged in the study of traditional culture and folk arts. His works include The Modern Translation of Dunhuang Manuscripts, The Art of Nanjing Qixi Mountain Grottoes and Dunhuang Studies, and Chinese Folk Traditional Arts—Shadow Puppetry. After studying under Feng Shui master Tao Chaosheng in 2000, Cang'er devoted himself to the study of the I Ching.
Tao Chaosheng, deeply influenced by his family's traditions from a young age, had a passion for the Five Elements and I Ching. He studied civil engineering at Zhejiang University of Technology and, after graduation, observed celestial phenomena at the Nanjing Purple Mountain Astronomical Observatory for four years, gaining insights into life and death and eventually becoming a Buddhist monk. He immersed himself in Feng Shui studies, achieving profound expertise, particularly in the I Ching, where he uncovered hidden truths unseen by predecessors. In 1990, he emerged into the world, using his transcendent wisdom and compassionate heart to guide those who were ready. Currently, he resides in Hong Kong as a Feng Shui consultant for the Southern District Chamber of Commerce, providing Feng Shui consultations and business planning for well-known individuals and enterprises.
Chapter: Suitable Places for Living
The Chinese have always placed great importance on purchasing property. They believe that "having a roof over one's head" is the foundation of a stable life. In the past, grand mansions were seen as symbols of wealth, while the phrase "no roof above, no ground below" described poverty. However, buying a home is a significant undertaking that requires substantial financial and human resources. Modern home purchases involve considering numerous factors, such as transportation convenience, environmental safety, and school district quality, as well as the internal structure, functional facilities, and supporting amenities of the property. Additionally, as real estate investors, people hope that their property investments will bring them good fortune.
### I. Considerations for Community Environment
#### (1) Requirements for Residential Community Environment
Why do designers create landscapes that mimic nature, such as flowing water and artificial hills? This is because humans are inherently part of nature. Only in nature can one truly feel at ease. Some communities are built directly against mountains or near water, achieving a serene atmosphere, but they may also present certain issues:
1. Terrain and Topography:
- Residential areas should not be too close to soft slopes. Buyers of villas must pay special attention, as soft slopes may slide during heavy rains, leading to severe consequences. While building on a hill can offer a tranquil and secluded living environment, higher and more remote locations naturally have fewer people nearby. If such properties are surrounded by empty space and lack neighboring villas, they are not ideal for investment or appreciation. Villas built on slopes are typically standalone structures, emphasizing scenic views. Therefore, the terrain behind the house should be higher, while the front should be lower. However, the front should slope gently—avoid steep drops or cliffs, as they evoke a sense of rushing downfall and negative feelings. Conversely, standalone villas built on a front-high, back-low terrain are not suitable. If the rear has steep drops or cliffs, it is even worse, causing fear and raising safety concerns. Buildings with narrow fronts and wide backs or vice versa diminish (qi), giving an unfavorable impression.