How Your Home Breathes
Balconies and windows are where your home meets the outside world — they let in the morning sun, fresh air and, in Vastu, positive energy. Because the north-east is the source of that beneficial energy, opening the home up correctly on the north and east while shielding the harsh south and west is one of the most comfortable and Vastu-aligned things you can do during construction.
Best Direction for Balconies
- The north, east and north-east are the best directions for balconies — they catch the gentle morning sun and invite positive energy.
- Keep balconies on the north and east larger and more open.
- On the south and west, keep balconies smaller and shaded, since these faces get harsh afternoon heat.
- The north-east balcony is ideal for morning tea, plants or a small sit-out.
Windows: Direction & Size
- Provide larger and more numerous windows on the north and east walls to draw in light and morning air.
- Keep windows on the south and west smaller, with shading, to control heat gain.
- Cross-ventilation — a window on opposite or adjacent walls — keeps air moving and energy fresh.
- Traditionally the number of windows (and doors) on each floor is kept even; a consultant can advise if you follow this closely.
Design & Comfort in Nepal's Climate
- Deep sunshades (chhajja) over south and west windows cut the summer heat while still allowing light.
- Openable windows with good grilles balance security, ventilation and daylight.
- Position at least one window in the kitchen (ideally east) and each bedroom for cross-ventilation.
- Avoid a large window directly behind the head of the bed; place the bed against a solid wall instead.
Things to Avoid
- Closing off the north-east with a solid wall or a heavy, enclosed balcony.
- Large, unshaded west windows that overheat rooms in the afternoon.
- Broken, cracked or permanently jammed windows — repair them, as they trap stagnant energy.
- A balcony toilet or heavy store in the north-east.
The Bottom Line
Open your home up to the north and east — larger balconies and windows there — and keep the south and west smaller and shaded. You will gain a brighter, cooler, better-ventilated home that also follows Vastu's flow of positive energy. Because window and balcony positions are fixed in the structure, plan them on the elevations from the start. At VastuVeda Designs we set the openings for light, cross-ventilation and Vastu together, so every room feels fresh and welcoming.
