Feng Shui for the Front Porch and Deck

When many people think of the ancient Chinese art of Feng Shui, they oftentimes consider only the interior of the home. But it is only befitting that your front porch and deck should be decorated using the principles of Feng Shui as well. After all, it is on the porch and deck where you head to relax and to unwind from the stresses of the daily grind, and these two areas are often the first to greet guests who come to visit. What’s more, Feng Shui experts put a great emphasis on the home’s entryway being inviting for positive energy. Bringing harmony to these all-important spaces of the home is possible using basic Feng Shui tips and concepts.

Feng Shui with Color
The goal of Feng Shui, which literally means wind and water, is to position items in everyday life to allow for the optimal movement of chi, which is a positive energy thought to be the breath of life. But color plays a significant role in creating a space that allows for chi to flow freely also. By adding a blast of color in the porch and deck areas, you can invite good fortune (red, yellow, and purple), provide life and growth (blue), or bring peace (green). Red, in particular, is favored in Feng Shui because it is thought to attract happiness. You can add these colors by way of brightly colored planters or pots, or you could choose to paint the front door to your home in a positive, nurturing color.

Tips for Adding Feng Shui to the Exterior
The following tips provide simple ways for you to use the power of Feng Shui on the porch and deck:

• Round planters and objects allow for an unhindered flow of chi, so be sure to add some big round pots, stones, and other round objects to your porch or deck decor.

• Install a Koi pond. Fish are powerful symbols of wealth in Feng Shui; the addition of a Koi pond in your landscape around the porch and deck can bring good fortune and prosperity to your home.

• On the deck area, avoid placing lighted candles, grills, or other objects that can contain fire on the left side. When considering Bagua principles in Feng Shui, this is the wealth area, and a lighted candle might consume your prosperity and wealth.

• Clutter and disorganization can ruin the positive energy flow of any area, including your front porch or deck. For this reason, do not use mismatched furniture in these areas, and don’t allow them to become cluttered up or disorganized, or you may destroy the harmony of the space.

• Symbolize your desire for wealth and prosperity by installing an outdoor water fountain.

• Welcome visitors to your home with fresh flowers and wind chimes on the front porch, which will also draw positive energy.

• Keep bushes in front of the home or around the deck area trimmed in order to open up the positive flow of good chi.

You will be pleasantly surprised that with just a few additions to your porch or deck you will be able to apply the principles of Feng Shui to your exterior to keep the positive chi flowing.