A request that is often made by my clients at the initial stage of the design process is for a puja area – a place of worship or prayers. For many indian households, prayers, meditation and devotional singing are an important part of their daily routine. Such is the importance for this space, that developers are ear marking a space specially for this activity.
The aesthetics and functionality of the puja area need careful consideration at the design stage. Points to bear in mind are:
- Location – Since this is a sacred place, vaastu plays an important role here too. According to vaastu, the direction of the puja area should be in the North, East or North East side of the home. This is deemed auspicious and enhances the positivity of the space.
- Size and Space – this will of course depend on the sq ft area of the residence. Not everyone has a dedicated room however small. Therefore, according to needs and preferences, such as homes can benefit from wall mounted puja unit. These are readily available online or at the local markets. Or an alternative is to have the unit custom made. Though a little time consuming, the end result means you decide the finishes and storage as per the area available.
- Finishes – Natural materials such as stone or wood are an excellent choice for such an auspicious space. Stone such as marble or onyx can be used for the altar and flooring whilst neutral shades can be painted on the walls to create a calming environment. These materials not only look classy but are also maintenance free.
- Storage – Using closed storage for accessories will keep the area free of any clutter. Items such as lamps, incense and religious books can be neatly stored away in drawers or behind shutters.
- Accessibility & comfort – The puja area should be easily accessible by all the members of the household including children and senior citizens. Avoid areas like the basement and attics.
At the same time ensure safety measures such as no sharp corners, use of fireproof materials and good ventilation. Comfortable seating should be provided such as stools or cushions particularly during extended prayer sessions. And the altar height should be of an appropriate height so offerings can be made comfortably.
Considering these points will help create a sacred, functional, and aesthetically pleasing Puja area that enhances the spiritual atmosphere of your home.
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