Although it is an ancient Chinese philosophy and mindset, Feng Shui has recently taken center stage in western minds as far as creative interior design. In Feng Shui, furniture placement is key for directing the energy forces and flow of what is known in Feng Shui circles as Chi.

Contrary to many homes in the west, it’s vitally important to place furniture, especially couches and sofas, where they can’t block, interfere, lessen or force Chi in another direction not conducive to one’s spiritual well-being.

In the west, family homes are generally structured today into a combination of living room area and family room. Generally, everything is centered for comfort while the general rules of interior design are violated. Accessories and convenience take precedence over Chi or any other energy force. Besides, many times the family is not in a room long enough to create Chi.

Following are some simple guidelines for using couches or sofas in the best light within a Feng Shui structure.

• When there are less couches, there is more room for energy forces to flow. Focus instead on using love seats. Make sure to factor this in when shopping for living room furniture.
• Displaying only what is indispensable, remove books, statues, décor, other furniture and even an excess of family photos. These only tend to trap the Chi in a living room space.
• Creating cozy seating arrangements with love seats, small sofas and chairs welcome close relationships without stifling one’s space and need for privacy.

So, where is the best place to put one’s sofa or love seat couch? Ideally, against a wall with an obstructed view from the door while leaving about three or four inches between the wall and the sofa. Keep furniture from having a cluttered, boxed-in feel to it.

Likewise, general seating should not be too pushed together, and a small surface is needed so visitors can easily rest a beverage, book or other item within arm’s reach.

From the minute one enters the front door, no furniture should really be seen. Keeping walkways and foyers clear and unobstructed will help maintain a free flow in the house or apartment.

Round or oval-shaped coffee tables win every time over square or rectangular tables. They also conduct better flow of Chi. At all costs, avoid harsh corners that point to visitors.

That being said, not everything needs to revolve around rounded objects. A good blend of shapes is also important: squares symbolize mother earth; rectangles represent wood grains; and triangles stand for fire. Generally, round and oval objects are indicative of metal crafting.

Many families in the west focus more on functionality and comfort; in the east, designers concentrate on the ethereal side of things. The good news is that a blend is definitely possible with careful selection and forethought, so choose wisely.