Another Architecture – Vaastu Architecture

Ben is an architect. His interest in philosophy and yoga led him to explore Vaastu architecture. What could Vaastu architecture offer, in addition to his western training? Read on to hear some of his discoveries.

Another Architecture – Vaastu architecture

Ben Farugia, Malta

As a practising architect, what drew you to explore Vaastu architecture?

I found it fascinating to see that Vaastu architecture looks beyond the design of physical buildings to understand the impact of the built environment on the lives and experiences of its inhabitants.

As Winston Churchill once said, “We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.” Vaastu architecture embodies this truth, recognizing that spaces, when designed in harmony with natural principles, can enhance life on many levels.

So what is Vaastu architecture? 

Vaastu architecture is a time-honoured and holistic system of architecture which is founded on a unique science called Sthapatya Veda. It was discovered by the ancient Tamil scientist, poet, linguist and architect, Mamuni Mayan (date disputed, but say at least 500 BCE as can be dated from archaeological evidence and literature from that period.)

Sthapatya Veda describes the orderly manifestation of energy and matter through rhythm and form. Mayan further developed this science and applied it across the fivefold Tamil art forms: poetry,  music, dance, sculpture and architecture which all share a common “grammar” based on rhythmic order. This rhythmic order is measured in time through the actions like the beat of a dancers foot, the clap of a musician’s hand, or metre in poetry. In architecture, this same rhythmic order is applied as proportionate measurement and spatial arrangements. This is why the traditional sculptures and buildings are proudly termed frozen music or musical forms.

The building grammar and design principles that have been codified in the ancient texts used to create harmonious architectural forms is known as Vaastu architecture.

Its principles are not only limited to temple architecture but also have their application in residential design and town planning to name but a few. 

Photo Credit: BrihadisvaraTemple: example of Vaastu architecture, credit: Varun Shiv Kapur – Flickr

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