From a Feng Shui standpoint, we can consider the impact of preserving an older home’s architecture versus changing it.  There are a number of reasons why a home may need remodeling: to include expanding for more living space. As well, what we now think of as awkward space could be remodeled to be more functional and of course, repairs of any kind for expected wear and tear should not be delayed.

No one would dispute putting more electrical outlets in an old Victorian home. But what if someone puts a dropped ceiling under large, exposed beams which are very much part of the home’s architectural identity?

From a Feng Shui standpoint, we don’t want to see a house in ill repair and neglected. That kind of house will collect “sha qi.” But in the decision to preserve the original shape and features to the house versus modernizing it, there is no rigid Feng Shui dictate.

We are in Period 9 (2024-2043) and new constructions from this Era are called Period 9 houses.  The last time we had a Period 9 was 1844-1863.   Houses from this last Period 9 are now in the current Period 9 and considered “renewed” or revived, where their qi has been reborn to its original power and positivity.

However, if that same 180-year-old home has dry rot, termite damage, faulty plumbing, a crumbling chimney and other structural problems, we cannot honestly say this house has the same “fresh” and youthful qi that it did when first built.  It is clear that this older house should be updated and brought to its original structural soundness, as much as this is possible, without replacing large amounts of foundational materials.

Some older homes have magnificent architecture, and yet they still may have feng shui design flaws, such as with the position of stairs aligned with a main door or other design layouts that we would avoid in creating a new home. I do think that with careful planning and Feng Shui input, it is possible to both preserve the architectural integrity of a home through remodeling, even if that means doing away with some awkward spaces or repurposing the functions of certain rooms.

On that note, there is nothing superior or inferior about any style of architecture from a Feng Shui standpoint. Avoiding toxic, off-gassing construction materials is always the ideal.

Author: Kartar Diamond

Company: Feng Shui Solutions ®

From the  Architecture & Design Blog Series